Fort Williams, Civil War fort in Alexandria, United States
Fort Williams stands on high ground overlooking the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, with a strategic position covering western approaches to Alexandria.
Constructed in 1861 following the Union defeat at Bull Run, Fort Williams formed part of a network of 68 forts protecting Washington DC from Confederate forces.
The fort exemplifies military engineering of the 1860s with its timber and earthwork design, incorporating space for 13 guns within its 250-yard perimeter.
Parts of Fort Williams remain accessible through a 7.8-acre city park located at 501 Fort Williams Parkway in the Seminary Ridge neighborhood of Alexandria.
George Tryon Harding, father of future President Warren G. Harding, served at Fort Williams during its operational period in 1864.
Location: Alexandria
Inception: 1861
Part of: Civil War defenses of Washington, D.C.
GPS coordinates: 38.81180,-77.09000
Latest update: March 9, 2025 18:00
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