Fort O'Rourke

Fort O'Rourke was a military fortification built in Belle Haven between 1862 and 1863 with gun positions arranged along its perimeter. The structure once occupied a key location in the southeastern part of the neighborhood, though no physical traces remain visible today at the site.

The fort was built in 1862 as the southernmost defensive post in a network protecting Washington, D.C. during the war. It bore the name of Colonel Patrick O'Rourke, who later died during the Battle of Gettysburg.

This location reflects how the local area mobilized for conflict after Virginia's secession. Visitors can understand how the region prepared itself for the war that was about to unfold.

No visible remains exist at the location today, but you can find the site within the Belle Haven community area of Fairfax County. Plan to visit the historic location itself, as there are no structures or artifacts to see on the ground.

This fort worked as a support position for Fort Lyon, forming part of a layered defense network around the capital. This connected system of fortifications allowed coordinated defense across multiple positions.

Location: Fairfax County

Inception: 1862

Part of: Civil War defenses of Washington, D.C.

GPS coordinates: 38.78280,-77.06610

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:00