Although its guns were never fired in anger, Fort Ward played a top-secret
part in the outcome of World War II. Now a National Historic Site, many
of the original buildings are private homes renovated by the owners.
Established at the turn of the 20th Century, Fort Ward was one of a series of US Coast
Artillery forts built to guard Puget Sound from enemy ships. Fort Ward was a subbase of
Fort Worden in Port Townsend, which was the filming location for the movie, "An Officer
and a Gentleman."
Fort Ward's guns were gradually removed after WWI, and by 1938, only a small
security detail was left. In 1928, the fort was abandoned as a Coast Artillery base and for
several years, it served as a "fresh air camp" for inner city children.
More Fort Ward History:
Silent Heroes of WW II
Parade Grounds Dedication
