Fort Donelson Entrance

Entrance to the Earthen Fort Donelson

NPS

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Parking - Auto, Scenic View/Photo Spot

The fortification was constructed from logs and earth with picks and axes, creating walls that reached ten feet tall. Confederate soldiers and enslaved African Americans began working on the fort in the summer of 1861 and it was completed by the end of that year. In addition, all the trees surrounding the 15-acre fort were cut, with the treetops sharpened, to form an abatis. This abatis was an additional obstruction for the enemy.

The fort was built for the defense of the artillery batteries on the Cumberland River.