Fort Edward Johnson facts for kids
Fort Edward Johnson was a series of military defenses built in April 1862. These defenses were created by a group of soldiers called the "Army of the Northwest." This army had about four thousand members. They were part of the Confederate States of America (CSA) during the American Civil War.
The Army of the Northwest was led by Colonel Edward "Alleghany" Johnson. Their mission was to protect a main road through the Appalachian Mountains. This road was known as the Staunton and Parkersburg Turnpike. Colonel Johnson decided to build strong defenses on top of Shenandoah Mountain. This spot was a high point along the turnpike in Virginia. It was about 26 miles west of Staunton.
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Why Fort Edward Johnson Was Built
Colonel Johnson's army had won a battle before, at Battle of Camp Allegheny. After that victory, Johnson was called "Allegheny" and became a General. However, his army had lost many soldiers. Other setbacks for the Confederates led General Robert E. Lee to give new orders. Lee told Johnson to move his forces east. This was to better protect the important city of Staunton and the Shenandoah Valley.
Johnson moved his army about 40 miles east along the turnpike. He found a low spot on Shenandoah Mountain that would be perfect for defense. This spot was where the turnpike crossed the mountain. It was a good place to stop any advancing Union Army forces.
Building the Fort
Starting on April 5, 1862, Johnson's soldiers worked hard for two weeks. They built strong walls of earth and logs, called breastworks. They also cut down trees on the western side of the fort. This cleared the way so they could see any approaching enemies. The fort was named after General Johnson on April 6.
The Fort's History
General Johnson was ordered to meet General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson's army. This meeting was near Staunton on April 19. Because of this, Fort Edward Johnson was left empty. Union forces then moved in and took over the fort without a fight.
However, the story of the fort did not end there. On May 7, 1862, Johnson's army returned. They had new supplies and marched west. They took back the fort, which the Union forces had also left empty. Johnson's army did not stay long. The very next day, they left the fort again. They marched further west to fight their opponents.
Visiting Fort Edward Johnson Today
Today, Fort Edward Johnson is next to U.S. Route 250. It is at the mountain pass on top of Shenandoah Mountain. This location is about 26 miles west of Staunton, Virginia.
You can visit the remains of the fort. There is a half-mile walkway that leads from a parking area. This path goes through the old breastworks. It helps visitors learn about the fort. The parking area also gives access to the Shenandoah Mountain Trail and Ramsey's Draft Wilderness. The fort's remains are located within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. They are on the border of Augusta and Highland counties in Virginia.
