Fort Scott’s appearance was largely the work of Captain Thomas Swords, post quartermaster from 1842 to 1846, who vowed shortly after his assignment that he would make it “the crack post of the frontier.” He built the post to last, reflecting the 1843 political belief that the “Permanent Indian Frontier” really would be permanent. Unlike many frontier forts hastily built for short-term use, Fort Scott’s architecture and craftsmanship were more typical of large, well-established Eastern posts. As quartermaster, Swords was responsible for designing and building the post and all of its structures at a time when the army had not yet standardized designs, forcing him to rely on his own plans despite limited local drafting skill. He planned Fort Scott to be functional while maintaining neatness consistent with economy, borrowing classical design for some buildings. The officers quarters and enlisted men’s barracks show French Colonial influences in their porches, stairs, and rooflines, while the well canopy reflects Greek Revival style. Among the most conscientious of frontier quartermasters, Swords retired in 1869 a brevetted brigadier and major general.