Place

Sallyport

Drawbridge leading to a fortress with an archway. Fortress has two rows of windows on either side.
Georges Island Sallyport

BHN/B. Knotts

Quick Facts
Location:
Georges Island
Significance:
Entrance to Fort Warren
MANAGED BY:
Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation

The largest entrance and most heavily defended approach to Fort Warren was the main sallyport. The original design included a drawbridge and portcullis, and interior slope. The current bridge design dates from World War II. The narrow windows on either side allowed defending soldiers to fire onto attackers.The protruding iron rods fastening the inner yellow oak doors deterred attempts at breaking through with an axe.

Fortify Your Vocabulary

Sallyport: the main entrance to a fort.

Portcullis: a wooden or iron grated fence that impedes travel.

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

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Last updated: October 11, 2022