Fort Huger

Fort Huger is an earthwork fortification located on Harden's Bluff overlooking the James River with gun positions built into its defensive structure. The fort's layout and embankments were designed to control river traffic and protect the approach to Richmond.

Confederate engineers built this fortification in 1861 under Colonel Andrew Talcott's direction and named it after General Benjamin Huger. Its location on the river made it crucial to the defense of the region during the war.

The site displays five replica Civil War cannons that show how soldiers defended this stretch of the James River during the 1860s conflict. These reconstructions help visitors understand what weapons were used in the river defense system.

The site is maintained as a public park where visitors can explore the preserved structures and read informational displays about the fortification. The grounds are open for walking around the earthworks and gun positions to see how they were arranged.

This fortification worked together with Mulberry Point battery to create overlapping fields of fire that protected the river approach. Obstacles were also placed in the water to stop Union ships from advancing toward Richmond.

Location: Isle of Wight County

GPS coordinates: 37.10970,-76.65940

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:40