By George L. Clough - Online Collection of Brooklyn Museum; Photo: Brooklyn Museum, x521_bw.jpg, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10189798
Fort Dumpling was constructed in the late 18th century during the American Revolutionary War and was strategically positioned to defend the entrance to Narragansett Bay, a vital waterway for trade and military transport.
During the War of 1812, Fort Dumpling underwent significant improvements, including the addition of stronger fortifications and weaponry. Its importance as a coastal defense post grew, reflecting the nation's ongoing need to protect its maritime interests.
In the late 19th century, as military technology advanced and the nature of warfare evolved, Fort Dumpling was modernized and renamed Fort Wetherill in honor of Captain Alexander Macomb Wetherill, who served in the Spanish-American War. The fort was equipped with more powerful artillery and updated infrastructure to meet the changing demands of national defense.
Throughout the 20th century, Fort Wetherill played various roles in America's military endeavors. During World War I, it served as a training ground for coastal artillery units. In World War II, the fort was heavily fortified and manned to guard against potential enemy incursions into Narragansett Bay.
After World War II, Fort Wetherill was decommissioned and eventually transferred to the state of Rhode Island. In 1972, it was opened to the public as a state park, offering stunning views of the bay and ample recreational opportunities such as hiking, picnicking, and fishing.
Source: ChatGPT
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One of the oldest roads in the state, Fort Road was originally built by the federal government after Fort Ridgely was completed in 1853-54. Supplies were shipped from Fort Snelling to Traverse des Sioux, then transported by wagon to Fort Ridgely.
Nicollet County Road 5 runs more than 42 miles from its eastern terminus at its intersection with US Highway 169 in St Peter to the Renville County line. Old Fort Road presumably extended from Traverse des Sioux, although the portion running through the campus of Gustavus Adolphus College has been blocked off. Fort Road as an address runs from the western edge of St Peter to the end of CR-5.
In an ideal world, a paved trail would have been installed when the road was refurbished in the early 2010s. This planned geocache trail will have to suffice, but won’t alleviate my anxiety when biking here.