Fort Mahan

 (1861-1865) - A Union U.S. Civil War fort constructed in 1861 in Northeast Washington DC. Named for Dennis H. Mahan, Professor of Engineering at the United States Military Academy (1832-1871). Abandoned in 1865 at the end of the war.

History
Established in 1861 to guard the approaches to Benning's Bridge across the Anacostia River. The fort was irregular in shape with nine sides and a perimeter of 354 yards mounting 22 guns. Structures included a guard house, two barracks, officer's quarters and a mess house. Outworks included Battery Mahan

A 17 May 1864 report from the Union Inspector of Artillery noted the following: "Fort Mahan.–Garrison, one company Unattached Heavy Massachusetts Artillery–1 ordnance- sergeant. Armament, three 12-pounder field guns, four 15-inch Rodman, four 24-pounder F. D. howitzers, two 8-inch siege howitzers, one Coehorn mortar, one 10-inch siege mortar, three 30-pounder Parrotts. Magazines, two; dry and in good order. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable."

Abandoned in 1865 at the end of the war.

Current Status
Fort Mahan Park in Northeast Washington DC. Some overgrown remains of the earthworks, several markers.

See Also:
 * Battery Mahan
 * Washington DC Fort Ring
 * Washington DC Defense System - U.S. Civil War

Sources:
 * , page 137.
 * NPS Civil War Defenses of Washington - Appendix E: General Reports About the Defenses
 * NPS Civil War Defenses of Washington - Appendix E: General Reports About the Defenses

Links:
 * North American Forts - Fort Mahan
 * NPS - Fort Mahan