Fort Adams, located in Newport, Rhode Island, is a historic military fortification that remains a significant landmark in American history. As you approach, its massive stone walls and strategic location on the shores of Narragansett Bay immediately capture your attention.
Fort Adams dates back to the late 18th century, named after President John Adams and established on July 4, 1799, as part of the First System of coastal fortifications designed to protect the United States from foreign invasions. Originally designed by Major Louis de Tousard of the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the fort played a crucial role during the early years of the nation, including the War of 1812 when Rhode Island militiamen defended against British naval forces.
Recognizing the need for more robust coastal defenses after the War of 1812, the United States constructed a new, much larger Fort Adams as part of the Third System of fortifications. Designed by Brigadier General Simon Bernard, a French military engineer who had served under Napoleon Bonaparte, the new fort was built between 1824 and 1857. Bernard’s design was a masterpiece of military engineering, incorporating the latest advancements in fortification technology. The new Fort Adams was the most complex and formidable coastal fortification in the Western Hemisphere at the time. It featured a tenaille and crownwork, intricate outer works designed to break up and channel an assault force, and a detached redoubt located 650 yards south of the main fort.
The physical layout of Fort Adams is a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of its designers. The fort is an irregular pentagon, with sides up to 900 feet long. Its walls are constructed of granite and brick, with two- and three-tiered casemates providing multiple levels of defense. The fort’s design includes 438 embrasures, or slots, through which cannons could be fired, allowing for formidable defense against any attacking force. The bastions, arrow-shaped projections from the main wall, provided overlapping fields of fire, ensuring that every wall face could be protected from another. The fort’s location on a point with water on three sides added to its defensive capabilities, making it nearly impregnable from a landward assault.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Fort Adams is its underground tunnels. These tunnels, which run beneath the walls of the fort, were designed to allow defenders to move troops and supplies quickly and safely during a siege. The tunnels also provided a means of countermining, allowing defenders to detect and thwart any attempts by attackers to tunnel under the fort’s walls. Today, visitors to Fort Adams can explore these tunnels as part of guided tours, gaining a unique perspective on the fort’s defensive capabilities and the ingenuity of its designers.
In addition to its impressive physical layout, Fort Adams also boasts a rich history of military use. The fort was garrisoned during the Civil War, although it never saw combat. It continued to serve as a military post through the Spanish-American War and both World Wars. During World War II, Fort Adams was used as a training center for anti-aircraft artillery units. The fort was decommissioned in 1953, and in 1965, it was designated a National Historic Landmark.
Today, Fort Adams is part of Fort Adams State Park, a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including picnicking, fishing, and swimming. The fort itself is open for guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its historic structures and learn about its storied past. The tours provide a comprehensive overview of the fort’s history, architecture, and military significance, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
One of the most notable modern uses of Fort Adams is as a venue for festivals and events. The fort’s expansive grounds and stunning waterfront location make it an ideal setting for large gatherings. The Newport Folk Festival and the Newport Jazz Festival, two of the most prestigious music festivals in the country, are held annually at Fort Adams State Park. These festivals attract thousands of visitors from around the world, who come to enjoy performances by some of the biggest names in music against the backdrop of the historic fort and the picturesque Narragansett Bay.
The Newport Folk Festival, which began in 1959, has a storied history of its own. It was at this festival that Bob Dylan famously went electric in 1965, a moment that marked a significant shift in the landscape of folk music. Today, the festival continues to celebrate the rich tradition of folk music while also showcasing contemporary artists. The Newport Jazz Festival, founded in 1954, is equally renowned and has featured performances by legendary musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Miles Davis. The combination of world-class music and the historic setting of Fort Adams creates a unique and unforgettable experience for festival-goers.
In addition to these major festivals, Fort Adams hosts a variety of other events throughout the year. The fort’s parade field, a large open space at the center of the fort, is often used for concerts, fairs, and community events. The fort also offers special tours and programs, including paranormal investigations and hard hat tours that take visitors into areas of the fort not typically open to the public. These events and programs provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the fort’s history and its ongoing preservation efforts.
The preservation and maintenance of Fort Adams are overseen by the Fort Adams Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the historic site. The Trust works tirelessly to stabilize and restore the fort’s structures, ensuring that this important piece of American history is preserved for future generations. The Trust also offers educational programs and outreach initiatives, helping to raise awareness about the fort’s historical significance and the importance of preserving our nation’s heritage.
Visitor experiences at Fort Adams are diverse and engaging. The fort offers a range of tours that cater to different interests. Guided tours, which last approximately 75 minutes, take visitors through the fort’s quarters, both restored and unrestored areas, and delve into the underground tunnels. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, self-guided tours are available and include access to the 6.5-acre parade field, scenic overlooks with breathtaking views of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay, and the restored casemates housing informational panels and displays. Special tours such as the “Beyond the Walls” golf cart tours, “Beneath the Walls” hard hat tours, and paranormal investigations provide unique experiences that highlight different aspects of the fort’s history and structure.
When visiting Fort Adams, there are plenty of activities to enhance your experience. You can catch the Newport Harbor Shuttle, a water taxi service that offers a scenic and affordable way to explore the harbor, with stops at various points of interest including Rose Island Lighthouse and Perrotti Park. For those interested in sailing, Sail Newport provides rentals and lessons, allowing you to navigate the picturesque waters of Narragansett Bay. Additionally, the tall ship Oliver Hazard Perry, a 200-foot, three-masted sailing school vessel, is stationed at Fort Adams. This impressive ship offers educational programs and day sails, providing a unique opportunity to experience maritime history firsthand.
As you explore Fort Adams, it’s easy to imagine the soldiers who once walked its halls and manned its defenses. The fort’s massive walls and intricate design speak to a time when coastal fortifications were a critical component of national defense. Yet, despite its military origins, Fort Adams has evolved into a vibrant cultural and recreational hub, seamlessly blending the past with the present. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend the day, Fort Adams offers something for everyone.
For more information – www.fortadams.org
