Two Fort Knoxes, named after the US Secretary of War, were built in and near Vincennes. The first FORT KNOX was at the intersection of First and Buntin streets and from 1787 to 1803 was the westernmost American military outpost. The garrison and townspeople did not get along, so badly that in 1796, the soldiers were ordered not to go 100 yards beyond the walls.
FORT KNOX II
In 1803, the Federal government approved $200 to build a new fort three miles north on Vincennes on the Wabash River. It was moved here probably because of the town-soldier problem. Not much important happened at the fort other than some duels and desertions.
In 1811, as relations between Tecumseh and William Henry Harrison deteriorated, a new commander, Captain Zachary Taylor was put in charge of the fort. The fort became the scene of a muster point for US and militia soldiers late in 811 as Harrison prepared for his march to Prophetstown and the Battle of Tippecanoe.
Troops returned here after the battle and several died from their wounds.
In 1813, it was determined that Fort Knox II was too far from Vincennes to protect it and the fort was disassembled and moved down the river and rebuilt near the former site of the first Fort Knox.
Stuff I Didn't Know. --Cooter
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