| Historic Fort Huger extends approximately 1,130 feet along the James River and spans 22.04 acres. It is a well-preserved abandoned Civil War fort in Isle of Wight County, Va. The fort is located on a strategic bluff on the south side of the James River across from modern day Fort Eustis in Newport News.
The site features a Civil War encampment located outside of the fort, a self-guided walking trail along the original 1861 pathway and through the fort’s interior and a car/bus parking area. Interpretative signage describes the fort’s significant features, its strategic naval warfare role during 1861–1862, its construction by free blacks and slaves and a view of the modern day James River Reserve Fleet.
Considered an historic gem, the fort follows closely the original design developed by Col. Andrew Talcott, State Engineer in 1861. It is in nearly pristine condition with most of the fort’s features still discernable due in no small part to the long-term lack of nearby modern development. Significant features include a hotshot furnace, shell house and powder magazine.
The preserved fort interprets its national historic significance and natural relationship to the Chesapeake Bay. |
