Last updated: September 3, 2025
"The capital can't be taken!"
On forested hills surrounding the nation's capital are the remnants of a complex system of Civil War fortifications. These strategic buttresses transformed the young capital into one of the world's most fortified cities. By 1865, 68 forts and 93 batteries armed with over 800 cannons encircled Washington, DC. Today, you can visit 18 of the original sites now managed by the National Park Service.
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- Duration:
- 2 minutes, 5 seconds
An overview of the Civil War Defenses of Washington, the roles of Fort Stevens and other forts in the Civil War, and how park visitors can experience these places today.
Places to visit
Today 18 fort sites are administered by the National Park Service located on approximately 130 acres.
The Battle of Fort Stevens
Join us each July for the annual commemoration of the Battle of Fort Stevens and enjoy living history, music, lectures, and more!
Then-And-Now
The Civil War Defenses of Washington brought back to life!
Lincoln-Thomas Day event
Join us each September for the annual Lincoln-Thomas Day commemorative event.