Under the Verrazano Bridge: Exploring the Hidden History of Fort Wadsworth

By Y.M. Lowy

Beneath the Verrazano Bridge, where Brooklyn meets Staten Island, two historic forts stand. Fort Hamilton and Fort Wadsworth, rich with historical significance, offer a glimpse into centuries-old military strategy and coastal defense. What may seem like a simple waterfront visit reveals layers of history, dating back to the Revolutionary War.

Nearly 250 years ago, the American colonies fought for independence from the British Empire. Control of vital waterways played a decisive role in these battles. Whoever commanded the rivers and harbors held the key to protecting the land. Fort Wadsworth, perched high above the water on Staten Island, was a crucial defensive point. The British recognized its value early in the war, capturing it and holding the fort until 1783. By 1806, the land became part of New York State, and the forts were expanded. During the War of 1812, additional defenses were constructed, including emplacements for 900 cannons, preparing the area for attacks that never came.

Today, Fort Wadsworth offers a quiet retreat, where echoes of the past linger in its weathered walls and empty corridors. The site consists of several buildings, each bearing the marks of its purpose. One of the most notable structures is Battery Duane, a massive wall that once concealed a hidden cannon. After firing, the cannon could be retracted, making it nearly invisible from the outside.

Exploration of the area reveals a striking pentagonal building that once housed soldiers. Though now in disrepair, the vast open spaces inside hint at the daily routines of those stationed there. The lookout from the top of the fort provides a sweeping view of the surrounding waterways' strategic significance. Scattered across the grounds are remnants of the fort’s defenses. An abandoned cannon sits quietly amid the ruins, a lonely reminder of the fort’s military past. 

A dry moat provides another insight into the fort’s strategic genius. It's a defensive trap designed to expose enemies to crossfire from narrow openings in the walls. To avoid friendly fire, these openings were carefully placed at intervals, ensuring that no two aligned directly across from one another.

Tracks leading from the fort to a nearby building suggest a system for moving heavy artillery or supplies. Though the exact purpose remains uncertain, the building itself stands largely untouched after a fire in the 1980s. The area was also a center for naval mines, launched from specialized ships to deter enemy vessels.

Despite its impressive defenses, Fort Wadsworth was never used in battle. Its presence alone may have been enough to discourage enemy action. 

The weathered walls and abandoned structures stand as silent witnesses to history. Under the shadow of the Verrazano Bridge, Fort Wadsworth offers a rare chance to walk through time.

Photos and information were originally published in Kinder Shrift's Chol Hamoed Trip feature, part of the mega Dee Voch Pesach package - available in stores now.

Photos by: Zevi Klein