Fort Totten Park
4.1 (73)park
4.1 (73)Quiet walking trails wind past surviving Civil War earthworks at this hilltop defense site in Northeast Washington.
Description
Constructed between 1861 and 1863 as part of the Northern Defenses of Washington, the fort occupied a high point near President Lincoln's summer home, featuring an auxiliary battery connected by earthworks. The position mounted 20 guns and mortars, including a 100-pounder Parrott rifle that provided long-range support during Confederate General Jubal A. Early's attack in July 1864. Named for U.S. Army Chief Engineer Brig. Gen. Joseph G. Totten, the grounds are managed by the National Park Service.