Welcome to Fort Duffield
Built in 1861 above the junction of the Ohio and Salt Rivers, Fort Duffield remains one of
Kentucky’s best‑preserved Civil War earthworks. The men who soldiered and served here preserved
the landscape and stories they left behind.
Start Here
New to Fort Duffield? These four sections give you the best introduction to the fort’s history,
the people who served here, and how to explore the site today.
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Origins & Early History: Learn why Fort Duffield was built and how it served.
Begin with the fort’s story → -
Walking Tour: Explore preserved earthworks and nine interpretive stations.
Take the walking tour → -
Research & Primary Sources: Letters, maps, reports, and archaeology.
Explore the archives → -
Support & Membership: Help preserve Fort Duffield.
Support the fort →
Before You Visit
Fort Duffield is a historic site with natural terrain and preserved earthworks. Prepare for your visit:
- Wear sturdy, non‑slip shoes.
- Bring water and dress for the weather.
- Stay on marked trails; avoid earthworks.
- Use insect repellent.
- Watch for poison ivy and poison oak.
- Carry a cell phone; call 911 for emergencies.
- Bikes only on designated trails.
- No metal detecting or artifact removal.
For group tours or scout overnighters, contact the Fort Duffield Heritage Committee.
Explore Fort Duffield
Discover the fort’s history, the people who served here, and the preserved earthworks you can explore today.
Origins & Early History
Learn how and why Fort Duffield was built in 1861.
People of Fort Duffield
Explore rosters, biographies, and memorial projects.
Research & Primary Sources
Letters, maps, reports, and archaeological findings.
Walking Tour
Visit nine interpretive stations throughout the fort.
Interpreting the 1861 Sketch
Kelley’s 1861 sketch provides one of the earliest and clearest views of Fort Duffield…
Inside the fort, Kelley depicts nineteen structures…
Although no official military map has been found…
Plan Your Visit
- Location: West Point, Kentucky
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Parking: Free at trailhead
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate incline
- Restrooms: Seasonal
- Pets: Allowed on leash
About Fort Duffield
Constructed by Union troops in the early months of the Civil War…
Today, visitors can walk the preserved earthworks…
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