---

Survey of Historic Sites and Buildings

	FORT MONROE Virginia
On U.S. 258, east of 60 and 64, at Old Point Comfort, on the eastern outskirts of Hampton. U.S. Army

Ownership and Administration. U.S. Government; Department of Defense.

Significance. This fort, typical of those that the Government constructed after the War of 1812 to remedy deficiencies in coastal defenses that the war had revealed, is located on the site of some of the earliest fortifications built by the English in North America and has been almost continuously occupied for more than 350 years.

At the site, in 1609, the Jamestown settlers built Algernourne Fort, a wooden structure, against possible attack by the Spanish. During the period 1630-32 Col. Samuel Mathews reconstructed it and renamed it Point Comfort. It was again reconstructed, this time of brick, during the years 1728-30 and called Fort George, but in 1749 heavy winds destroyed it. During the Siege of Yorktown Count de Grasse strengthened his defenses by placing batteries on the point. The present fort, constructed between 1819 and 1836, was completely surrounded by a water-filled moat and a 40-gun water battery, which stood between the outer banks of the moat and the shore of Chesapeake Bay. It figured prominently in the Civil War, relating primarily to which it is a Registered National Historic Landmark.

Present Appearance. The original brick fort of 40 acres is located in the center of the present, more elaborate post, which occupies about 640 acres and is today headquarters of the Continental Army Command. The old fort is little changed from its 19th century appearance. Three of its casemates have been converted into a museum commemorating Civil War events. The fort is open to the public.

NHL Designation: 12/19/60