Place

Fort Davis

Trees turning colors in front of a grassy field.
Fort Davis

NPS / Claire Hassler

Quick Facts
Location:
Washington, DC
Significance:
Civil War Fort
Designation:
National Park

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Public Transit

Fort Davis was built in August 1861 as part of the Eastern Branch Line (Anacostia River).

The fort was flanked to the north by Fort Dupont and Fort Baker to the southeast. Fort Davis had a perimeter of 220 yards and mounted 12 artillery peices.
The fort was named in honor of Colonel Benjamin F. Davis, who was killed at the Combat of Beverly Ford, Virginia on June 9, 1863. Fort Davis was abandoned in 1865. The earthworks remain in good condition.

Civil War Defenses of Washington , National Capital Parks-East , Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details
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.

Last updated: May 19, 2023