Fort Stevens

Fort Stevens stands on elevated ground with earthen walls and artillery positions forming a 375-yard perimeter overlooking Georgia Avenue, formerly Seventh Street Pike.

Built in 1861 as Fort Massachusetts, the fortification received its current name in honor of Brigadier General Isaac Stevens who died at the Battle of Chantilly.

The fort played a central role in the defense of the capital during the Civil War, with President Lincoln observing combat operations from its parapet.

The National Park Service maintains the partially restored fort with guided tours available daily, offering exhibits about the 1864 Battle of Fort Stevens.

Confederate forces under General Jubal Early attacked the fort in July 1864, making President Lincoln the only sitting president to come under direct enemy fire.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1861

Architects: John G. Barnard, Civilian Conservation Corps

Elevation above the sea: 97 m

Website: https://www.nps.gov/places/fort-stevens.htm

Made from material: dirtiness

Part of: Civil War defenses of Washington, D.C., Fort Circle Parks

Address: 6001 13th St NW, Washington, DC 20011 20011 20011

Website: https://nps.gov/places/fort-stevens.htm

GPS coordinates: 38.96444,-77.02889

Latest update: May 11, 2025 10:15