One of the oldest military structures in the nation, the fort and surrounding area (once inhabited by Lenape natives) sits on 226 acres on the northeastern shore of Staten Island, on the Narrows of New York Harbor. It is made up of several forts, including Fort Tompkins and Battery Weed.

Originally named “Fort Richmond”, the structure kept New York safe from the British during the American Revolution. It remained a defense fort through the War of 1812, and stood major guard during the Civil War along with Fort Hamilton directly across the water in Brooklyn, defending entry points from the Confederate armies.

In 1865, Fort Richmond was given its current name, “Fort Wadsworth”, in honor of Brevet Major General James Wadsworth, who died during the Civil War. Although the Fort no longer functions defensively today, it is still a major destination along the Staten Island shoreline, providing magnificent views of New York Harbor. Residents can be seen taking walks or riding their bikes along the overlook and paths, early in the morning and on nice days.

Fort Wadsworth is also well known as the starting point of the Annual New York City Marathon, as well as the ending point of the Five Boro Bike Tour. The name "Fort Wadsworth" also refers to the residential neighborhood that surrounds the old fort. This area roughly includes the areas south of Rosebank, north of South Beach, west of the shoreline, and east of Shore Acres and Arrochar. These neighborhoods contain a variety of single-family homes and townhouses of many styles, marketed to those “looking for an escape from city life”.

The area is easily-accessible to most residential needs, like schools, stores, parks and playgrounds, and is located right at entrance/exit of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and the Staten Island Expressway. The neighborhood is also only a few miles away from the Ferry, making it a big draw for commuters.

Filled with much history and grand scenery, Fort Wadsworth is the first sight seen by visitors and residents alike, as they enter Staten Island over the Verrazano. The “Forgotten Borough” need not be forgotten anymore. #knowyorkcity 🗽

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