Album: What the Civil War Defenses of Washington Look Like Today

National Capital Region

The Civil War Defenses of Washington ensured Washington D.C., the capital of the broken Union, survived the bloody chaos of the American Civil War. Washington D.C. was fortified for a reason. It was the sword, shield, and symbol of the United States, and had to be protected at all costs. 68 forts, 93 detached batters, 900 mounted cannons, and 30 miles of military road were constructed to defend D.C. Here are photos of what a handful of these forts look like today.