Battery 245

 (1944-1947) - A World War II reinforced concrete gun battery built at Fort Stevens (1) between 28 Oct 1942 and 31 Aug 1944 at a cost of $248,578. Officially operational 28 Oct 1944. Deactivated in 1947.

World War II (1941-1945)
One of three like World War II batteries that provided a "triangle of fire" protection for the mouth of the Columbia River. Battery 245 at Fort Stevens (1), Battery 246 at Fort Columbia and Battery 247 at Fort Canby made up the three points of the triangle.

Armament consisted of two 6", Model T2, 309.9" long rifled guns each mounted in a separate shielded M4 Barbette carriage. Between the two guns was a reinforced concrete bunker housing the ammunition and control mechanisms. The battery was self-contained, with its own power generator, plotting rooms, magazines, and other facilities. It was also designed to be gas-proof in case of chemical attack.

The guns now mounted at Fort Stevens (1) are 5" Naval guns in a completed turret and are similar to the originals except that the turret is completely enclosed. These guns and turrets were installed by the State of Oregon in 1985. The original guns were dismantled in 1947 when the fort closed down and the gun tubes were shipped to Fort Miley, Battery 243.



Current Status
Battery 245 is located on Fort Stevens (1) Oregon. The battery is open to the public and in good condition. The rooms in the Battery are empty but many are marked by function. Period guns and carriages are in place although they are not the same as the originals.

Recent Blog Posts:
 * Battery 245 at Fort Stevens

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