1912 Horse-Drawn Wagon at Fort Sam Houston, Texas

This historical photograph features a horse-drawn commissary wagon, an essential element of daily life at Fort Sam Houston in Texas during the years 1911 and 1912. The wagon was specifically designed to transport unbleached flour, a staple food supply used for baking bread and other provisions for the soldiers stationed at the fort. The commissary system played a crucial role in maintaining army readiness by ensuring troops had access to necessary food supplies, reflecting the logistical operations of the military at that time.

Fort Sam Houston, established in 1845, was a significant military installation and has served various functions, including as a training ground and medical center. The presence of the wagon underscores the importance of the Quartermaster Corps in the U.S. Army, responsible for supplying troops with food, equipment, and other vital resources. This photograph not only captures a moment in military history but also highlights the everyday realities faced by soldiers and the dedicated efforts behind the scenes to support them.