Fort Willard, Civil War fort in Belle Haven, United States
Fort Willard is a Civil War fortification in Belle Haven featuring preserved earthen ramparts, cannon positions, and remains of military structures from the 1860s. The grounds show raised embankments and vestiges of entrenchments that reveal how soldiers once arranged their defenses.
The fort was constructed in late 1862 as the southernmost defensive position in Washington's protection system, built by the 34th Massachusetts Infantry. It anchored the southern edge of a ring of fortifications defending the nation's capital.
The site serves as a gathering place for Belle Haven residents who come together for community events throughout the year. People use the grounds as a local meeting point for shared activities and celebrations.
The grounds are accessible at 6625 Fort Willard Circle and connected to the Mount Vernon Trail for walking. Parking areas and visitor facilities make it straightforward to explore the fort and learn about its story.
The grounds preserve intact earthen walls and the foundations of a bombproof shelter designed to protect soldiers from artillery fire. These underground structures are rare surviving examples of Civil War engineering for soldier survival.
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