Fort Miles

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Fort Miles is an American military installation located on Cape Henlopen near Lewes, Delaware. In 1941, the fort was constructed by the government during World War II to guard the Delaware Bay and River from Axis submarines. Observation towers (aka Fire Control Towers), four to five story round-base concrete towers with flat observation decks, were set up in triads to triangulate the position of suspicious ships or submarines. Five such towers still exist within the current boundaries of Cape Henlopen State Park, including one that has visitor access. Many bunkers were also constructed to house cannons and other weapons. Barracks, administration buildings, and a pier were also constructed as part of the fort. Fort Miles never saw any major action, only firing its cannons once between its establishment and the end of the war. In 1964, 543 acres (2.2 km²) of federal land were donated to begin the Cape Henlopen State Park. Over time, more land was transferred to the state park until Fort Miles ceased operation altogether in the early 1990s.

A museum celebrating Delaware's part in World War II is currently in the process of being constructed within the state park. Walking tours of the bunkers and other facilities currently being restored are available during summer weekends. For more information about times and dates, go to Cape Henlopen's Visitor Center. Online at http://www.fortmiles.org, http://www.fortmiles.com