Fort Saratoga

Fort Saratoga was a military fort in Northeast Washington, D.C., built as part of the defensive ring protecting the capital during the Civil War. The installation stood on high ground between two neighboring forts and was equipped with earthen ramparts and artillery pieces to defend against attack.

The fort was built in August 1861 by the 112th Pennsylvania volunteer infantry as part of hasty fortification efforts to protect Washington from attack. It was one of dozens of forts constructed in the early war years to create a defensive line around the city.

Several military units, including the Pennsylvania Regiment, District of Columbia Infantry, and New Hampshire Heavy Artillery, maintained the fort's defensive capabilities.

No structures or visible remains of the fort survive today, as the site is now part of a residential neighborhood near Rhode Island Avenue. Visitors interested in exploring the location should be aware there are no original structures or visitor facilities on the grounds.

The fort was armed with a mix of cannons including older smoothbore models and newer rifled artillery pieces. This hodgepodge of weapons shows how hastily the Union had to improvise its defenses, often using whatever equipment was available from existing supplies.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1861

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

GPS coordinates: 38.92944,-76.97833

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:42