General Information: This Endicott-era battery was completed and armed in 1895 with three 12-inch guns mounted on barbette carriages. The first 12-inch platform in the nation was constructed at this battery and tested to determine if the design could withstand the gun’s firing. The battery was built to match or outshoot the guns of contemporary battleships at ranges of up to ten miles. These guns could fire one 1070 pound round per minute. In 1943 the War Department ordered the salvaging of this battery along with 12 others no longer needed. Origin of Name: Battery Godfrey was named in honor of Captain George J. Godfrey, 22nd Infantry, who was killed in action in Cavite, Island of Luzon, Philippine Islands, in 1899. Access and Current Condition: Battery Godfrey is located at the Presidio on the coastal bluffs. It can be reached via Lincoln Boulevard to Langdon Court. The entrance to Fort Scott from Lincoln is nearby. The Coastal Trail runs adjacent to the gun battery. The interior magazines can not be accessed. Encroaching vegetation was recently removed from around the battery and preservation work to stabilize the battery’s condition is ongoing. Safety railings have been installed.
Blue Print
A 12-inch gun mounted on barbette carriage.
Present day view of battery.