Fort Washington — The Capital’s Guardian (Historical Marker)

Here follows the inscription written on this roadside historical marker:

Fort Washington — The Capital’s Guardian
Fort Washington, directly across the river, is the oldest existing fortification erected for the defense of the national capital. It was begun in 1814 to replace the first fort which was destroyed during the War of 1812 with Great Britain.

George Washington selected the location in 1794 when construction of a fort on the Potomac was considered. The high masonry walls, gun positions, dry moat, and drawbridge all illustrate principles of military science and architecture used during the nation’s early life.

This marker has been replaced by another marker nearby.