NORFOLK – In 1794 the United States government approved 19 fortifications to be built on the eastern coast of the new nation to help protect against hostile nations.
One of the fortifications was built in Norfolk along the banks of the Elizabeth River, not far from where it empties into the Chesapeake Bay.
The fort was intended to defend the city and the harbor against enemy ships sailing. In 1794 the fort was simply earthen walls.
In 1808 brick masonry walls were added along with six buildings. Fort Norfolk is the last of those original defense fortifications built 224 years ago.
It is free and open to the public Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., excluding holidays. The Norfolk Historical Society conducts guided tours of the fort on Sundays, 12-4 p.m., from June 17 to the last Sunday in September.
