Fort Miles was built in 1938 during World War II to protect Delaware Bay and the Delaware River from German warships (1961). In 1941, it was renamed after Lieutenant General Nelson Miles. In addition, a portion of the fort served as a military recreation area for military families, which aided officer morale.
If you are interested in history, you should go to Fort Miles to learn more about US history and Delaware’s role in WWII. You can come as a family or a group, take a guided tour or program, and look around the art gallery. More about Lewes here
Fort Miles briefly served as a research facility after the war. It was later incorporated into Cape Henlopen State Park in 1996 and was managed by staff from the park and the Fort Miles Historical Association. It is now an important historical record of the United States’ defense during World War II.
Fort Miles now houses a museum with restored facilities such as an observation tower, a storehouse, a series of 3″ to 16″ gun batteries, and a series of the 519th gun battery. In addition, there are numerous WWII gun batteries, observation towers, and subway bunkers to explore in the park. Lewes
The most intriguing exhibit is a 16-foot-tall replica of the Statue of Liberty “A cannon mounted on a carriage beneath Battery 519’s entrance. The 12 gun carriage is also on display as a mounted Battery 519 gun carriage; the exhibit includes a mounted gun tray, a gun carriage, and a working breech block. Unfortunately, battery 519 is only accessible as part of a guided tour.
Climb to the concrete viewing platform and take in the panoramic view of the surrounding seascape. The park can also be used for special events. Visit Fort Miles with curiosity while in Lewes, and bring your camera to capture memories in photos and videos.