Doubleday Hill

In April 1861, Williamsport found itself across the Potomac River from enemy territory after Virginia seceded from the Union, and troops from both sides skirmished for control of the vital river crossing and the C and O Canal. To protect Union resources, the town built fortifications, and at Fort Sumter here, Major Abner Doubleday arrived in June 1861 and ordered the placement of three siege guns and the construction of an ammunition storage bunker and other defenses on the hill overlooking the town and river. Although Doubleday was transferred to Harpers Ferry a few weeks later, his name remained associated with the hill. The fortifications on Doubleday Hill were recreated in the early 20th century, and cannon on the hill appeared in the background when General Banks' Union army crossed the Potomac at Williamsport in June 1862.

Williamsport, Maryland · United States