Fort Early and Jubal Early Monument facts for kids
Fort Early and Jubal Early Monument
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Jubal Early Monument, Lynchburg VA, November 2008
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Location | 3511 Memorial Ave., Lynchburg, Virginia |
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Area | 1.3 acres (0.53 ha) |
Built | 1864 |
Architectural style | Classical Revival |
NRHP reference No. | 01001517 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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Added to NRHP | January 24, 2002 |
The Fort Early and Jubal Early Monument is a special historical site in Lynchburg, Virginia. It includes the remains of an American Civil War fort and a monument. This important place covers about 1.3 acres of land.
The fort was built in June 1864 by soldiers from the Confederate army. They were led by General Jubal Early. The fort was part of Lynchburg's defenses. It helped protect the city from the Union army. The Union forces, led by General David Hunter, were trying to capture Lynchburg. This happened during the Battle of Lynchburg. Fort Early is the only part of Lynchburg's old defenses that still exists today.
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Exploring Fort Early's History
Fort Early was built during the American Civil War to protect the city of Lynchburg. This was a very important time in American history. The fort was made of earth, meaning it was built using dirt and natural materials.
The Fort's Design and Purpose
The walls of Fort Early are quite tall. On the outside, they are about 12 to 15 feet high. Inside the fort, the walls are about 4 to 6 feet tall. This design helped protect the soldiers inside.
In 1922, a brick building was added inside the fort. The Fort Hill Woman's Club built this structure. Today, it holds exhibits about the Battle of Lynchburg. These exhibits help visitors learn about what happened there.
Entering the Historic Site
You can enter the site through a special brick-paved drive. This entrance was built in 1924. It has a tall iron arch, about 15 feet high, with the words "Fort Early" on it. This arch cuts through part of the original fort walls.
Other parts of the fort's walls are still in good condition. There is also a "sally port" in the northern wall. A sally port was a secret opening. It was used to bring in supplies like ammunition during the battle.
Honoring General Jubal Early
Near the fort, there is a monument dedicated to General Jubal A. Early. This monument is a tall granite obelisk. An obelisk is a four-sided pillar that gets narrower at the top.
The monument stands about 17 feet high. It was put in place in 1919. You can find it where Fort Avenue and Memorial Avenue meet. It honors General Early's role in the Battle of Lynchburg.
National Recognition
The Fort Early and Jubal Early Monument is an important historical site. Because of its history, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. This means it is recognized as a place worth preserving.