Battery (Fort) Ricketts

Battery (Fort) Ricketts

NPS / Claire Hassler

Quick Facts

Location:

Washington, DC

Significance:

Civil War Fort

Designation:

National Park

Amenities

4 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Picnic Shelter/Pavilion, Picnic Table, Trailhead

Battery Ricketts was constructed as part of the Eastern Branch Line Defenses (Anacostia River). The earthworks was often labeled as Fort Ricketts on U.S. Army Engineering maps. It was an auxiliary redoubt that covered a deep ravine in front of Fort Stanton to the west. It also provided artillery supprt for two bridges crossing the Anacostia (at the Navy Yard and two and a half miles upstream at Benning's Bridge), and to occupy the heights above the Navy Yard and Washington Arsenal. Battery Ricketts wa snamed in honor of Major General James B. Ricketts. 

Battery Ricketts had a permieter of 123 yards and mounted four artillery pieces. The garrison consisted of 206 men (42 artillerymen and 164 infantry).

In September 1865, advertisements were placed in Washington, Baltimore and Alexandria newspapers calling for sealed bids on the abatis, timber, lumber, and other materials within the listed forts. Among these was Fort Ricketts. The four government buildings at Ricketts, an 18 by 22 foot officers quarters, a barracks measuring 20 by 50 feet, the 16 by 50 foot mess hall, and a long guard house, were also sold.

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.