Back in 1878, Fort Meade was established as the sole military post in the Black Hills. Built to last, it was the only one of 22 other posts in the Dakota Territory to remain standing.

The fort served as a post for the 7th Cavalry, which was led for a time by General George Armstrong Custer. Through the years, many cavalry and other military units were stationed at Fort Meade, including a mounted African-American troop and African-American infantry unit and the 88th Glider Infantry. Fort Meade was even the home of a famous horse: Comanche, the only survivor among the 7th Cavalry dead at the battle of Little Big Horn, was retired there with honors. The fort was also home to the premiere performance of "The Star Spangled Banner" on July 4, 1892. (It would be another 22 years before the rousing theme was named our national anthem.)

It wasn't until 1944 that the Fort Meade property was transferred to Veterans Affairs. From the facility's beginnings as a neuropsychiatric hospital, the hospital complex has evolved into a state-of-the-art medical center. Current projects include a new water treatment plant and Phase II of Nursing Home Care renovation.