Last updated: January 29, 2026
Place
Fort Washington
NPS / Kelsey Graczyk
Quick Facts
Location:
Maryland
Designation:
National Register of Historic Places
Amenities
2 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Scenic View/Photo Spot
Built to defend the river approach to Washington, DC, Fort Washington has stood sentry for over 200 years. As technologies advanced, so did Fort Washington from the brick and stone of the 19th century to the concrete and steel of the 20th century.
After the destruction of Fort Warburton during the War of 1812, Lt. Col Walker Armistead, of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was responsible for the construction of Fort Washington beginning in 1815. Builders completed construction on October 2, 1824.
Through the 1840s, major upgrades improved the fortification with new gun platforms and cannon, an improved powder magazine, and a caponniere to protect the fort's rear. You can see and explore these features up close today.
Fort Washington defended the Potomac River approach to Washington, DC, during the Mexican War (1846-1848) and the American Civil War (1861-1865) as part of a ring of fortifications to defend the capital city. The fort never saw action in either conflict.
After the destruction of Fort Warburton during the War of 1812, Lt. Col Walker Armistead, of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was responsible for the construction of Fort Washington beginning in 1815. Builders completed construction on October 2, 1824.
Through the 1840s, major upgrades improved the fortification with new gun platforms and cannon, an improved powder magazine, and a caponniere to protect the fort's rear. You can see and explore these features up close today.
Fort Washington defended the Potomac River approach to Washington, DC, during the Mexican War (1846-1848) and the American Civil War (1861-1865) as part of a ring of fortifications to defend the capital city. The fort never saw action in either conflict.