Battery Smead

 (1861-1865) - A Union U.S. Civil War Battery established in 1861 in Northwest Washington DC. Named Battery Smead in G.O. 83, 1 Apr 1863, after Captain John R. Smead,, 5th U.S. Artillery, who was killed, 30 Aug 1862 at the Battle of Manassas. The battery was abandoned in 1865 at the end of the war. Sometime spelled Smeade.

History of Battery Smead
Established in 1861 as an earthworks gun battery with a perimeter of 170 yards and emplacements for four guns.

A 17 May 1864 report from the Union Inspector of Artillery noted the following: "Battery Smead, Capt. N.H. Moore commanding.–Garrison, one company Seventh New York Heavy Artillery– 1 commissioned officer, 1 ordnance-sergeant, 147 men. Armament, four 20-pounder Parrotts. Magazines, one; dry and serviceable. Ammunition, full supply and serviceable. Implements, complete and serviceable. Drill in artillery, ordinary; needs improving. Drill in infantry, indifferent; needs much improving. Discipline, very indifferent. Garrison is stronger than necessary."

The Battery was abandoned in 1865 at the end of the war.

Current Status
No remains, no markers. Reportedly leveled in 1958 and overbuilt by athletic grounds at St. John's College High School.

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

Sources:
 * , page 139.
 * , page 139.

Links:
 * North American Batterys - Battery Smead
 * NPS Civil War Defenses of Washington - Appendix E: General Reports About the Defenses