Fort Washington Park

 park, military, fortification, NRHP - National Register of Historic Places

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www.nps.gov/fowa/
www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=3663
www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=4554

Picturesque Fort Washington sits on high ground overlooking the Potomac River and offers a grand view of Washington and the Virginia shoreline. Today, only one silent gun stands behind the masonry wall-the last armament of the powerful fort that once guarded the water approach to our Nation's Capital. The old fort is one of the few U.S. seacoast fortifications still in its original form.

When ocean-going warships had wood sides and carried smoothbore cannons, no enemy would attempt to ascend the river before destroying the fort. But changing technology made the original masonry fort useless. Just prior to the Spanish-american War, the government built concrete emplacements to meet the threat of iron-sided ships and rifled guns. When they also became obsolete, the post became a military training facility and finally a VA center. Over 200 years of army presence has left the park with a diverse group of military structures and a rich history of service to our country and the Nation's Capital.

The 341 acre park offers an assortment of recreational opportunities. Picnic areas can be reserved for group activities and fishermen try their luck along the shore. There are also hiking and biking trails and a playground for children. It is not unusual to see eagles circling the river or deer feeding in the park during morning and evening twilight. You can always discover something interesting at Fort Washington Park.

Acquired in 1808. Designated in honor of Gen. George Washington, First President of the United States and commanding general of the Continental Army.

Formerly home to the Headquarters Harbor Defense of the Potomac from 1919 to 1939, the 1st and 2nd Companies Coast Defenses of the Potomac from 1919 to 1921, the 3rd Battalion, 64th Infantry from 1921 to 1922, the 3rd Battalion, 12th Infantry from 1922 to 1940, and Battery E, 12th Coast Artillery from 1924 to 1932.