Fort Wetherill

Fort Wetherill is a coastal artillery fort on Conanicut Island featuring concrete structures and gun emplacements overlooking Narragansett Bay. The site spreads across a large area with defensive installations positioned at strategic vantage points.

The fort was built between 1895 and 1903 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to protect Newport Harbor. It served as part of a larger coastal defense system designed to guard against maritime threats.

The fort displays military structures built in the early 1900s when coastal defense was a priority. Visitors can see how engineers of that era designed fortifications to protect harbors from sea-based threats.

The grounds are open daily for visitors to hike and explore the outer fortifications at their own pace. Many interior sections remain closed for safety, so stick to marked paths and respect any barriers you encounter.

Abandoned gun emplacements scattered across the grounds now display local street art, blending old military structures with contemporary creativity. The former tram tracks from submarine mining operations remain visible throughout the site, offering glimpses into forgotten defensive techniques.

Location: Jamestown

Inception: 1895

Architects: United States Army Corps of Engineers

Website: https://riparks.ri.gov/parks/fort-wetherill-state-park

GPS coordinates: 41.47733,-71.35783

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:48