Playing a key role in the Civil War, Fort Dupont Park is a historical unit of the Eastern National Capital Parks area. Consisting of 376 wooded acres on a rolling landscape, it is considered as one of the largest parks in Washington. Fort Dupont is one of many forts that are known as the "Fort Circle Parks", part of the Civil War Defenses of Washington. Additional fort sites are available for viewing, administered by
Rock Creek Park. Armies of the Union built a ring of earthen fortifications to protect the city of Washington, D.C. and its vital supply routes from the enemy at the outbreak of the Civil War.
Named after a flag officer by the name of Samuel F. DuPont, who in November of 1861 commanded the naval victory at Port Royal in South Carolina, the fort was built during a time when the capital city was an island surrounded by pure hostility. Hastily built with six sides about 100 feet long, the fort had additional protection with a surrounding moat. Trees were also dropped side-by-side with their branches pointing outward for defense in its perimeter. The barracks and guns are not there today, but its pronounced earthworks still show where runaway slaves sought safety before moving on to join the community of "contrabands" in Washington.
In the middle of the park is the Activity Center, where its popular showcases display the black soldiers' uniforms and equipment who served in the Civil War. Workshops and walks are provided to the public to enjoy our country's cultural traditions in addition to holiday events. Free jazz concerts offer music and a jubilant air that draws visitors throughout the park's area to the center.
In the year 1930, the fort was acquired for recreation through the National Capital Planning Commission. As the city grew, a sports complex was developed that includes many outdoor sport arenas—tennis courts, athletic fields, basketball courts, softball diamond, and an indoor ice rink which offers skating all winter.
