Fort Albany

Fort Albany was an earthwork fortification in Arlington County with gun positions arranged around its perimeter. It served as part of a larger defense system protecting the capital during the Civil War.

Union troops built this fort in 1861 as one of three fortifications protecting the Long Bridge crossing over the Potomac River. Its rapid construction reflected the urgent need to defend the capital early in the war.

Volunteers from New York chose the name after their state capital while helping defend the nation's capital. The choice reflected where these soldiers came from and their connection to home during service.

A historical marker near the Pentagon marks the former location of this fort for visitors. The site itself is no longer visible as ruins, but the marker helps you understand where the fortification once stood.

The fort held various types of artillery including siege guns and Parrott rifles designed for heavy firepower. This mix of weapons shows how critical this position was for protecting the bridge crossing.

Location: Arlington County

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

GPS coordinates: 38.86583,-77.06667

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:06