Welcome to Historic Fort Ward Park (Historical Marker)

Here follows the inscription written on this roadside historical marker:

Welcome to Historic Fort Ward Park
— City of Alexandria, Virginia —

Fort Ward Park is a 43.46 acre park owned and operated by the City of Alexandria, and designated as a historically significant site on the National Register of Historic Places. Fort Ward was one of the largest of the Union forts that comprised the Civil War Defenses of Washington, and today is the best preserved of the few fort sites that still exist in the region. Following the Civil War, an African American community, known as "The Fort," was established on the grounds and in the vicinity of present-day Fort Ward Park, which generated a century-long legacy of community life and heritage that preceded the founding of the Park in the early 1960s.

Today, Fort Ward Park features multiple historic and recreational resources:
About 90% of the Civil War fort's original earthwork walls remain, and the Northwest bastion of the fort is authentically restored. A self-guided tour of the historic fort begins at the Fort Ward Ceremonial Gate.

The Museum contains an outstanding Civil War collection, and offers exhibits, public programs, and a specialized reference library. Evidence of the post-Civil War "Fort" community, including sacred burial sites, archaeological findings related to building sites, heritage trees and road traces have been preserved and documented.

Park amenities include picnic areas, a playground, an amphitheater, and public restrooms.

For additional information on Fort War, please visit:
www.alexandriava.gov/Fort Ward

Erected by City of Alexandria, Virginia.