Fort Stevens

Built in 1862 as part of Richmond's Confederate inner-defense line, Fort Stevens was named for Col. W.H. Stevens, who oversaw construction of Richmond's defenses. While most fortifications were quickly built of earth supported by logs, Fort Stevens, because it did not immediately come under fire, was given a sandbag interior that made it more permanent. This strong position was not attacked until May 14, 1864, and two days later it became the pivot point for the Confederate counterattack on Gen. Benjamin Butler's Army of the James. During this period, Fort Stevens was occupied by the 27th South Carolina Infantry of Hagood's Brigade and the four guns of the Surry Light Artillery of Surry County, Va. On the morning of May 16, the Surry Light Artillery was removed and put in support of the counterattack on Butler's army.

Bellwood, Virginia · United States