Sabrejet Posted August 17, 2011 Share #1 Posted August 17, 2011 Situated just off Boston's shoreline are the Harbor Islands, all of which are under the control of the US National Parks Service. They are easily accessible via the cruise boats which ferry visitors to and from the islands from Boston's waterfront. Georges Island is of particular interest to military buffs because it is the home of Fort Warren, an impressive piece of military architecture built in the 19th century to protect Boston's harbor narrows from any approach by hostile shipping. In the event, its many guns were never fired in anger. During the Civil War it was used as a prison for captured Confederate officers and men and continued to be garrisoned through WW1 / 2 until it was decommissioned in 1947. It is now a popular tourist attraction. The island has its own visitors' centre which houses some interesting artefacts and audio-visual exhibits which document the fort's history. Also, there's a video presentation which runs hourly. Visitors are free to explore the fort and Park Rangers are on hand to answer questions and generally give assistance. There's also a full program of events which includes living history presentations. If you ever find yourself in the Boston area it's well worth a visit! http://bostonharborislands.org/georges http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georges_Island_(Massachusetts) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sabrejet Posted August 18, 2011 Author Share #2 Posted August 18, 2011 The classic pentagonal shape of the fort can clearly be seen in this aerial photograph. The structure in the middle, partially obscured by a tree is the blast-proof powder store, set well away from the defensive walls. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sabrejet Posted August 18, 2011 Author Share #3 Posted August 18, 2011 One of the fort's big guns. Technologically advanced "disappearing guns" were used at Fort Warren. After firing over the ramparts their recoil mechanism and special mounts made them immediately drop below them and out of sight for re-loading. A working scale model of one of these guns can be found in the visitors' centre. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LtRGFRANK Posted August 18, 2011 Share #4 Posted August 18, 2011 My Daughter-in-law and her folks are going to Boston this weekend so I've told what all you saw. Robert Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sabrejet Posted August 18, 2011 Author Share #5 Posted August 18, 2011 My Daughter-in-law and her folks are going to Boston this weekend so I've told what all you saw. Robert It's a lovely city with a ton of history....and great seafood restaurants. Tell them to be sure to visit Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market too! Ian Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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