Near Richmond in Henrico County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Confederate Fortifications
Photographed By Bernard Fisher, February 1, 2009
1. Confederate Fortifications Marker
Inscription.
Confederate Fortifications. . These northernmost fortifications along Brook Road operated as an early warning system for Confederate troops defending Richmond. Earthworks designed for artillery, located on each side of the road, blocked sudden enemy advances against the capital. A shallow trench line protecting infantrymen with rifles connected them. If necessary, both soldiers and cannons at this forward position could be withdrawn to the Intermediate Line. The walls, or parapets, of this battery position were originally 8-10 feet high and at least 15 feet thick at the top. The inner face of the wall was supported by pots and heavy logs. The earthworks were constructed in 1862 largely by a black labor force, and were occupied intermittently by Confederate troops until the end of the conflict in 1865.
These northernmost fortifications along Brook Road operated as an early warning system for Confederate troops defending Richmond. Earthworks designed for artillery, located on each side of the road, blocked sudden enemy advances against the capital. A shallow trench line protecting infantrymen with rifles connected them. If necessary, both soldiers and cannons at this forward position could be withdrawn to the Intermediate Line. The walls, or parapets, of this battery position were originally 8-10 feet high and at least 15 feet thick at the top. The inner face of the wall was supported by pots and heavy logs. The earthworks were constructed in 1862 largely by a black labor force, and were occupied intermittently by Confederate troops until the end of the conflict in 1865.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: War, US Civil. A significant historical year for this entry is 1862.
Location. 37° 36.663′ N, 77° 27.514′ W. Marker is near Richmond, Virginia, in Henrico County. Marker can be reached from Brook Road (U.S. 1) 0.1 miles west of Brook Road (U.S. 1), on the left when traveling north. This marker is located at the Confederate Fortifications site in the Brook Run shopping center. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Richmond VA 23227, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker
This stream, located 600 yards north of the fortifications, formed a natural defensive barrier. Brook Road was the main artery approaching Richmond from the north.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on February 8, 2009, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. This page has been viewed 1,609 times since then and 52 times this year. Photos:1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on February 8, 2009, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.
