Fort Alexander (Fort Sumner)
2012-02-20

military > fort
1861-07-01
1861-07-31
1863-05-01
1863-07-29
Fort Alexander was one of three forts that were built in Montgomery County in July 1861, along with Forts Ripley and Franklin. They were intended to protect Chain Bridge and the reservoir of the Washington water system. Fort Alexander was named for Colonel Barton S. Alexander, who superintended the construction of the three forts. In the spring of 1863, the three forts were combined as Fort Sumner.

Sources:

  • Roberts, Robert B., Encyclopedia of Historic Forts, (New York: Macmillan, 1988).
    pp. 390 View source information