Who Built Fort Monroe?
Fort Monroe
Like Fort Monroe itself, the work force that built it was huge. Thousands of people helped plan and build the fort, completing its construction in 1834. This work force included free and enslaved blacks, contract laborers, army personnel, and military convicts.
The construction itself was an immense undertaking that required large numbers of skilled craftsmen and general laborers. Skilled craftsmen served as stone and brick masons, carpenters, plasterers, and boatmen.
Working on Fort Monroe's construction was not an easy job. During the course of the work day, laborers faced serious injuries, illness, and even death.
[Captions:]
Lieutenant Colonel Charles C. Gratiot was the supervising engineer during the initial phases of Fort Monroe's construction.
During his tenure (1831-1834), US Army Engineer 2nd Lieutenant Robert E. Lee was responsible for the final stages of Fort Monroe's construction.
This site plan shows the work that had been completed by November of 1823.
Erected by Fort Monroe Authority; National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Forts and Castles. A significant historical month for this entry is November 1823.
Location. 37° 0.132′ N, 76°
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. How Big Is Fort Monroe? (here, next to this marker); Fort Monroe's Arc Of Freedom (a few steps from this marker); A Bay Worth Preserving (a few steps from this marker); Why A Moat? (a few steps from this marker); Why Was The Fort Built Here? (a few steps from this marker); Enormous Undertaking: The Fort's Construction (a few steps from this marker); Wisser Hall: From Books To War Games (within shouting distance of this marker); Hurricane Isabel (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Hampton.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on February 9, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 127 times since then and 12 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 9, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
