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FORT LEE FORT LEE J 1 NPS Gam 16i o $AWMo.IMs 18 oem United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Section number Addit. page Info. Fort Lee, Salam MA Historic Views Attached #1 Fort Lee, attached to a map of Salm Neck, 1820. U.S. Army Records at the National Archives, Record Group 77, Office o' r'hief Engineers. Fortifications File: Drawer 18, Sheet 12 (1820-22) . #2 Fort Lee, Salem, Mass. sketch. . . (planned alterations, 1863) . U.S. Army Records at the National Archives, Record Group 77, Office of Chief Engineers. Fortifications File: Drawer 18,. Sheet 21 (#9, 1863). #3 Photograph of Fort Lee, probably 1863. Collection of the Essex Institute. #4 Plans and sections of Fort Lee, Salem, Mass, 1864. U.S. Army Records at the National Archives, Record Group 77, Office of Chief Engineers. Fortifications File: Drawer 18, Sheet 29 (1864) . #5 Aerial View of Fort Lee, 1965. Planning Department, Salem MA. t ( u F. y' t R- :v4+y�` M �(•. r�My ,✓1 f[> J+ if �'S r . ♦., T NAT tr T .5�'k \\ \ , ` J �� n l• iF- �'� r � � -•t^� + ! _ .i. ;'& r1i.4"E-S'.'µ"i`i""1r-�i 'r fl-. r r ;,r \ \\\\'\ ( 1 Il,! l Q% /,1/ •x- ..r cr L 4 F � Ire MET ri ,tDts' 'F. �.+r' f�I c.� N.xX �+nf��t� n+f y I\ � \ 1 1~ lilv_ i 10 i a3va ;:_9k zz 1 v 1.. —5. k �T L.1 y V+S�� 41.3•!1 r 6 ��1 + M M it ,, n 1111. V. f 3 f foll T F7 Z- 12. r > ,you til _% - - _ � . � L[ :Y' ti � .7♦ �l n /�/�j�//��IJ� Ir1 .'1 k�\\� {,_ �� 1 t [- I o j t way- Ohio ..4' y-{FL`+* � > 'ls Y � ill�R s:J r w1.y, £ -[r T}�j Y' 2♦ '+ 1 lly Sir�,+[� ! M �4 ; fY(is �e �j-�°�.�3✓7$ + `+'S.� r �'+`�`�w iS'�e ' � 4� w r ;tw ."^' -i T .. '.7e i� � _T�' <r s' I R _. ,{, � }..t 1 1- e•. J : + _ t -. 1 - 1 I-4..... ...i t ] T/� R Ntr ti � 1t .: ' i I 0 IF t . 41 ! 3 1 f s � , 1V • :+ � 1 � } i f 1 ' I J I i f v i i 1 A, � yJS x ,f' }. Ileti .� t,� ,err � •a _rt:w�. Ve � r {t e yWhp 11 � � !x t j fi i Nf ZYc f'tv �^ Y { . i 8 y r'-eX S t�7 •. 4 Y � J Llrazverl8. Sheet 29- ' JfCT/OM on C.O. aYECr/&IV oaa A.B. A . JECT/UN on 6 f. 't� ' SECT/ON on 6.N. PL A N ANO J EC TIONS FORT LEE - " SALEM MAJJ. AOR. M an ined S � % � _...._ U fYanr. in AN.rAr A•�AA +} 2 i,Ledy ,,/. s V n.; •A f� t \:�. � ��`j Thr�' � � �� WI 1 � 4 .• � �.- mss. � �Its �► y a �.� � Jy - t 9 l�� a ' ' f <�x: F 46 %N O ' OO z IN ij �'` i • /4 9x• _ a t. i'k 1 � Ma.. •- ( ..� . . f �•_�Ng � n Ir t:v 4Z. it'd'• '::2�+4, '. "�'� L � �- r� • sd 7"L�Sr� '� e\ }s a fy' t .:Y� •��` _ ,fit "' 'nR"��b,, .i ,p`��,-+ �v:•.' . - .skyy�i�i`- .;�s`S._.-+ ypY :> : 'a5'!` .. - ' -�"- _-'�..'- CITY OF SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS PLANNING DEPARTMENT Is ONE SALEM GREEN 01970 (978)745-9595 Ext. 311 Fax (978)740-0404 August 7, 2001 Stephen A. Olausen Executive Director Public Archaeology Laboratory 210 Lonsdale Avenue Pawtucket, RI 02860 RE: Massachusetts Revolutionary War/War of 1812 Suvrey American Battlefield Protection Program Dear Mr. Olausen I am in receipt of your letter to Lance Kasparian, Chairman of the Salem Historical Commission. I have reviewed the City of Salem Plannning Department's files for Fort Pickering and Fort Lee and am enclosed some documents that were not part of the National Register nominations. If possible, I would be pleased to get a copy of your completed survey. It may be useful to us as we seek funding assistance for restoration work. Sincerely Jane A. Guy Asst. Community Development Director FECEIVEC AUG —6 i ll: 23 � July 27, 2001 2Cr1 A SALEM Lance Kasparian PLANNING DEPT Chairperson Salem Historic Commission One Salem Green Salem, MA 01970 Re: Massachusetts Revolutionary War/War of 1812 Survey • American Battlefield Protection Program Dear Mr. Kasparian: 1. PAL has been awarded a contract to conduct a survey of Revolutionary War and War of 1812 battlefields and associated properties in Massachusetts as part of the national American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP). Authorized by the United States Congress and administered by the National Park Service (NPS), the program seeks to identify what remains of the battlefields and properties that were associated with one or both wars. The Massachusetts project is overseen by the Massachusetts Historical Commission, with funding provided by the NPS. PAL is in the process of conducting research and fieldwork to identify the role that seven battlefields and more than 85,,associated properties played in the military effort of one:or boff wars.The results:of the surveywiil be transmitted to tfie United-States Congress with recommendations; on. how`significant 'extant properties may be interpreted and protected for future generations: Among the properties in Salem that we are presently conducting research on are the following: Fort Lee Fort Pickering To `date we have collected copies of National Register Nominations and Massachusetts Historical Commission forms for these properties. We would like to know if your organization has any additional information that might aid our research. Also, if you know of anyone who is particularly knowledgeable about these or any other properties with significant associations to either war, please forward their names and;contact'information:-We expect to complete the research phase of the;,project by. the;end 'of 'August, 96 -if you 'do have anything to contribute; ;please do so as soon as possible ,Our research team wilhlie visiting- 1 Salem_ some time in the near future T - 210 Lonsdale:Avenue Pawtucket, R1 02860 IEL 401.728.8780 eax 401.728.8784 - We appreciate any information you can provide to help in making this project a success and ensuring that significant sites associated with the Revolutionary War and/or War of 1812 receive the protection they deserve. Sincerely, tephen A. Olausen Executive Director Email: solausen@palino,com } Public Archaeology Laboratory 210 Lonsdale Avenue Pawtucket, Rhode Island 02860 401.728.8780 • 401.728.8784 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY NEW ENGLAND DIVISION,CORPS OF ENGINEERS 424TRAPELO ROAD WALTHAM,MASSACHUSETTS 02254-9149 REPLY TO ATTENTION OF, July 7, 1997,` Real Estate Division Conveyancing Branch JUL 1 1997 Mr. Larry McIntire, Director Park and Recreation City of Salem City Hall Salem, Massachusetts 01970 Re : Defense Environmental Restoration Program for Formerly Used Defense Sites DERP-FUDS) , Former Fort Lee Station, Salem, Massachusetts (Site No. D01MA0552) Dear Mr. McIntire; In 1995, the former Fort Lee, Salem, Massachusetts was evaluated for restoration eligibility under the Defense Environmental Restoration Program for Formerly Used Defense Sites (see the enclosed Findings and Determination of Eligibility) . The Department of Defense determined that no remediation project is appropriate at this site. In closing our files on this site, we did not see an indication that you were notified of our findings and, therefore, we are so notifying you. If you have any questions concerning this matter, feel free to contact Anne Laster of this office at (617) 647-8584 . Sincerely, Frederick W. Colman Chief, Real Estate Division Enclosure . DEFENSE ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION PROGRAM FOR FORMERLY USED DEFENSE SITES FINDINGS AND DETERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY PROPERTY OF THE CITY OF SALEM r- ' (FORT LEE) Ui f ,�� C SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS SITE NO. DOIMA0552 77 I FINDINGS OF FACT 1. The 2.3 acre fee parcel was acquired by the United States by purchase in 1867. 2. The site was known as Fort Lee. The Army used the fort existing at the site (which had been constructed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts) to defend Salem Harbor. This fort included four shell guns, 8 inch columbiads, mounted two on the eastern parapet, and one each on the northern and southern parapets, on circular platforms. In addition, when purchased by the federal government, the fort included a barracks, guard house, and underground magazine. Information from the Massachusetts Historical Commission indicates that the Army improved the fort in 1869 by replacing the platforms with iron carriages to allow the guns to be upgraded with more modem weapons, possibly the smooth bore Rodman. The fort was not under other than DOD control during the period of DOD use. 3. By Indenture dated 12 May 1922, the Secretary of War conveyed the 2.3 acre fee parcel to the City of Salem. The deed conveyed the land for "public park purposes, or for other public use only." If the land was not used for some public purpose, the land or part thereof would revert to the United States. In addition, the deed contained a recapture clause at any time and in any manner for any and all military, naval and lighthouse purposes and the United States would not be liable for any damages or compensation to the City for use for these purposes. The deed did not contain a restoration provision or other special conditions. DETERMINATION Based on the foregoing findings of fact, the site has been determined to be formerly used by DOD. It is therefore eligible for the Defense Environmental Restoration Program - Formerly Used Defense Sites established under 10 U.S.C. 2701, et sea. /3v�re � DATE EARLE C CHARDSON Colonel, Corps of Engineers Commanding 77 n 2'.L t �}. ' z 66 : v d .'• L1 � Z ja {ri W •c' q> 4' Lei s �' 5 i r ryr. ffnwx UZ F t T QM eV`ew 11�1� y O T � 1 MISSI- �eQ anWealtlt t°l� FORT LEE SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS was accepted on April 14, 1994 for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places The National Register is the nation's official list of buildings, districts, sites, structures, and objects which retain their historical character and are important to our local, state, or national history. The National Register was established under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and is administered inn the Commonwealth by the Massachusetts Historical Commission. Michael Joseph Connolly V dit B. McDonough V `f Secretary of State tate 4storic Preservation Officer Chairman,Massachusetts Historical Commission the Director,Massachusetts Historical Commission Massachusetts Historical Commission A Division of the Office of the Massachusetts Secretary of State N?Sjrm 10-900 OMB No. 100240018 (Oct. 1990) United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Registration Form This form is for use in nominating or requesting determinations for individual properties and districts. See instructions in How to Complete the National Register o/Historic Places Registration Form(National Register Bulletin 16A). Complete each item by marking "x" in the appropriate box or by entering the information requested. If an item does not apply to the property being documented, enter "NIA" for"not applicable." For functions, architectural classification, materials, and areas of significance, enter only categories and subcategories from the instructions. Place additional entries and narrative items on continuation sheets(NPS Form 10-900a). Use a typewriter, word processor, or computer, to complete all items. 1. Name of Property historic name Fort Lee other names/site number 2. Location street & number Fort Avenue k] not for publication city or town Salem k7 vicinity state Massachusetts code MA county Essex code 009 Zip code 01970 3. State/Federal Agency Certification As the designated authority under the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended, I hereby certify that this ® nomination ❑ request for determination of eligibility meets the documentation standards for registering properties in the National Register of Historic Places and meets the procedural and professional requirements set forth in 36 CFR Part 60. In my opinion, the property meets ❑ does not meet the National Register criteria. I recommend that this property be considered significant ❑ nationally ® statewide KI locally. (❑ See continuation sheet for additional comments.) lure of certifying officialf-ritle Ju h B. McDofiougj?atd Executive Director sachusetts Historical Commission, State Historic Preservation Officer State of Federal agency and bureau In my opinion, the property ❑ meets ❑ does not meet the National Register criteria. (❑ See continuation sheet for additional comments.) Signature of certifying official/Title Date State or Federal agency and bureau 4. National Park Service Certification I hereby certify that the property is: Signature of the Keeper Date of Action ❑ entered in the National Register. ❑ See continuation sheet. ❑ determined eligible for the National Register ❑ See continuation sheet. ❑ determined not eligible for the National Register. ❑ removed from the National Register. ❑ other, (explain:) Fort Lee Essex County, MA Name of Property County and State 5. Classification Ownership of Property Category of Property Number of Resources within Property (Check as many boxes as apply) (Check only one box) (Do not include previously listed resources in the count.) ❑ private ❑ building(s) Contributing Noncontributing ® public-local ❑ district buildings ❑ public-State ® site ❑ public-Federal ❑ structure i sites ❑ object structures objects i Total Name of related multiple property listing Number of contributing resources previously listed (Enter "N/A" if property is not part of a multiple property listing.) in the National Register N/A p 6. Function or Use Historic Functions Current Functions (Enter categories from instructions) (Enter categories from instructions) DEFENSE: fortfication LANDSCAPE: park 7. Description Architectural Classification Materials (Enter categories from instructions) (Enter categories from instructions) N/A foundation Earth walls Earth roof N/A other Narrative Description (Describe the historic and current condition of the property on one or more continuation sheets.) _ Fort: Lee Essex County, MA Name of Property County and State S. Statement of Significance Applicable National Register Criteria "Areas of Significance (Mark "x" in one or more boxes for the criteria qualifying the property (Enter categories from instructions) for National Register listing.) ARCHAEOLOGY ® A Property is associated with events that have made MILITARY a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. ❑ B Property is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past. ly] C Property embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components lack Period of Significance individual distinction. 1776-1872 b� D Property has yielded, or is likely to yield, information important in prehistory or.history. Criteria Considerations Significant Dates (Mark "x" in all the boxes that apply.) 1776, 1812, 1863 Property is: ❑ A owned by a religious institution or used for religious purposes. Significant Person ❑ B removed from its original location. (Complete if Criterion B is marked above) N/A ❑ C a birthplace or grave. Cultural Affiliation ❑ D a cemetery. N/A ❑ E a reconstructed building, object, or structure. ❑ F a commemorative property. ❑ G less than 50 years of age or achieved significance Architect/Builder within the past 50 years. N/A Narrative Statement of Significance . (Explain the significance of the property on one or more continuation sheets.) 9. Major Bibliographical References Bibliography (Cite the books, articles, and other sources used in preparing this form on one or more continuation sheets.) Previous documentation on file (NPS): Primary location of additional data: ❑ preliminary determination of individual listing (36 ® State Historic Preservation Office CFR 67) has been requested ❑ Other State agency ❑ previously listed in the National Register ❑ Federal agency ❑ previously determined eligible by the National 1�1 Local government Register ❑ University ❑ designated a National Historic Landmark ❑ Other ❑ recorded by Historic American Buildings Survey Name of repository: # Massachusetts Historical Commission ❑ recorded by Historic American Engineering Salem Planning Department Record # Fort Lee Essex County, MA Name of Property County and State ' 10. Geographical Data Acreage of Property 16.03 acres UTM References (Place additional UTM references on a continuation sheet.) 1 1 li 91 13141 5191 01 0 141 71 11 0131 81 0 3 1191 13141 61 11 81 0 14 111 10 13 10 10 Zone Easting Northing Zone Easting Northing p 1 11 91 13141 6101 01 0 14171110141610 4 1191 131416101610 14171110111210 ❑ See continuation sheet Verbal Boundary Description (Describe the boundaries of the property on a continuation sheet.) Boundary Justification (Explain why the boundaries were selected on a continuation sheet.) 11. Form Prepared By name/title Claire Dempsey and William Stockinger with Betsy Friedberg, NR Director, MHC organization Massachusetts Historical Commission date February 1994 street & number 80 Boylston Street telephone (617) 727-8470 city or town Boston state MA zip code 02116 Additional Documentation Submit the following items with the completed form: Continuation Sheets Maps A USGS map (7.5 or 15 minute series) indicating the property's location. A Sketch map for historic districts and properties having large acreage or numerous resources. Photographs Representative black and white photographs of the property. Additional items (Check with the SHPO or FPO for any additional items) Property Owner (Complete this item at the request of SHPO or FPO.) name City of Salem street & number City Hall, 93 Washington Street telephone (508) 745-9595 city or town Salem state MA zip code 01970 Paperwork Reduction Act Statement: This information is being collected for applications to the National Register of Historic Places to nominate properties for listing or determine eligibility for listing, to list properties, and to amend existing listings. Response to this request is required to obtain a benefit in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 470 at sec.). Estimated Burden Statement: Public reporting burden for this form is estimated to average 18.1 hours per response including time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining data, and completing and reviewing the form. Direct comments regarding this burden estimate or any aspect of this form to the Chief, Administrative Services Division, National Park Service, P.O. Box 37127, Washington, DC 20013-7127; and the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reductions Projects(1024-0018), Washington, DC 20503. NPS Fw 10.900-8 OMB Appy %.IW18 19 a91 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number 7 Page 1 Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts 7. DESCRIPTION Fort Lee is an earthwork fort, its initial construction dating to 1776, and with subsequent repair and remodeling dating to 1812 and 1863. Fort Lee is located in the City of Salem, Essex County, Massachusetts, on Salem Neck, a small peninsula that separates and commands the harbors of Salem and Beverly. The Neck itself is the outer-most end of the peninsula that forms the central and most densely settled part of the City, projecting into the harbor from the mainland out to the northeast. It is approximately 1 1/2 miles in length, while its width varies from 1/4 to 1/2 mile. Most of the Neck is relatively flat, rising in elevation from sea level toward its center approximately ten to twenty feet (three to six meters) above high water mark. The area around Fort Lee rises to over 70 feet above low water mark, a point measured from the fort's magazine, the highest part of the fort and the highest portion of the Neck. Fort Lee is located about two-thirds of the distance out along the Neck and sits on a large parcel of 16.03 acres owned by the city of Salem and presently maintained as a city park known as the Fort Lee Natural Preserve. It is adjacent to the recreational area known as Salem Willows, developed during the 1870s and also maintained as a city park, located on the northeastern end of the Neck, and the associated residential area located on the southeastern shore, both currently being nominated to the National Register of Historic Places. Fort Lee and the Salem Willows Historic District share Memorial Drive and Fort Avenue as a boundary. Not far away, off the Neck's southern shore is the Winter Island Historic and Archaeological District. The portions of the Neck to the west of the Fort Lee have been more recently developed, with the subdivision of City land for the sale of residential lots after World War II along the northwestern portion of the Neck, the construction of the New England Power Sub-Station shortly thereafter, and the South Essex Sewer District Treatment Plant in the 1970s. These areas are divided from Fort Lee by a right of way for high tension wires from the power plant. The size of the open parcel of Fort Lee argues strongly for the survival of a broad spectrum archaeological resources there. European settlement in the area dates to the 1620s, but it appears that their activities on Salem Neck were focused primarily on the areas directly adjacent to the shore rather than the higher and rockier interior of the neck. The western end developed for the Almshouse and related activities from early in the 19th century, and the eastern end for the Willows late in the century, but the large central portion around Fort Lee experienced little known development. One prehistoric site has been reported from the area, and an additional ten sites reported on Salem Neck and on nearby Winter Island (Missio et al. 1992). The area is high and well drained yet in close proximity to the harbor and the ocean, (continued) NPS Form IMOO-a OMB Approval No 1024-0019 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number 7 Page 2 Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts environmental features that make the survival of archaeological sites and resources likely. Recent environmental review testing within this larger area of the Neck and the Island have revealed the reliability of these avocationally and professionally reported site locations, and strengthens further the likelihood that archaeological deposits and a variety of features survive. These adjacent confirmed sites have revealed occupation dating to the Middle Archaic period, and reflect a range of activities within this area. Proximity to the harbor and the rivers that feed it assure the exploitation of marine resources, and a variety of site types, including habitations, resource collection, and tool maintenance sites are likely. Additional evidence about the seasonality of resource exploitation and settlement would be secured in the sites and features that can be predicted for this area. Although there is some speculation that this rise was armed during the 17th century, the best data suggests that Fort Lee was constructed in 1776 to improve the defenses of Salem harbor. Augmenting the existing Fort William (now known as Fort Pickering) on Winter Island and Fort Juniper on the lower eastern shore of the Neck, it would serve as an elevated redoubt covering the highest point on the Neck and is located approximately 500 feet from the northern shore, and 1400 feet from the south. Though from the interior of the fort it is easily recognized as a man-made structure, from the outside it is are difficult to distinguish from the natural rise and outcroppings. Its current overgrown condition makes it difficult to observe its present configuration when approaching it from below, but, with the additional information provided by historic photographs and maps, aerial views and a walk-over along the ramparts readily confirm its present form. See attached historic views of Fort Lee. Fort Lee is a relatively simple earthwork fort laid out in an irregular four-pointed star form, with truncated salients. The elevated ramparts that form the redoubt are clearly visible in aerial views (see view #5) as well as on the U.S.G.S. quadrangle for the area, where their outlines can be followed along the eighteen meter (approximately fifty-five feet) contour above high water, the highest point of the parcel. As the plan of the fort prepared after the last rearming during the Civil War records, the fort is irregular but roughly symmetrical, accommodating local topography (see view #4). The body of the fort or its enceinte is oriented in an east-west direction, facing the Salem Harbor. The western landward parapet, the location of the sloping entry ramp on the southwest, is a blunt salient of trapezoidal form. Its opposite salient on the east, oriented to the end of the Neck and the harbor, is nearly square. By contrast, the remaining rampart pairs to the north and south are semi-circular. The parapets protect the inner parade grounds, commonly the location of the magazine. These parapets were constructed of earth excavated from ditches located around the circumference. The stratigraphy of this construction is visible at the site, where visible layers of soil or lifts, each tamped down before adding additional layers, can be seen along eroded (continued) I NAS Form 10.900-a OMB Appovel No,IW18 reel ` United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number I Page 3 Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts edges. The ditches around the ramparts are not continuous due to outcroppings of rock ledge. In additional to the earthwork itself, the fort would have been covered in an overlay or revetment, known from an exceptionally detailed Civil War period photograph to have been of sod bricks (see view #3). The present shape of these ramparts was determined by the earliest Revolutionary War construction of the site, tempered by Civil War era modifications to the basic plan and subsequent erosion of the earthworks. The earliest detailed drawing of Fort Lee, dated to 1820 (see View 1), records a very regular, four-lobed fort, each salient a blunted triangle, its edges all rounded. Although no elevations are available the height of the parapets above the parade is clearly delineated, and the drop off of the rocky slopes surrounding the fort are indicated as well. The next available drawing dates to 1863, a plan of existing conditions and planned alterations (see View #2). Here the existing conditions lines suggest a less regular profile, but it is not clear whether these differences are the result of more accurate measurement or evidence of over forty years of erosion. The western salient still includes the entrance, and is symmetrical in form; the north and south salients are also symmetrical, but considerably smaller in size than those to the east and west. The eastern salient presents the greatest differences, with five rather than three outward faces to the salient, and the northern wall longer than its opposite number to the south. A drawing dating to 1864 records the work as actually completed at the fort the year before (see view #4). The north side of the Fort was constructed as planned: a long blunt salient at the west, a smaller rounded salient at the north, and a large nearly square salient facing the east. Along the south side, however, the angle of the west salient is also the angle of the southern salient, forming a nearly straight line rather than an angle with the south salient. Period photographs confirm that this work was completed as drawn, with the dark, layered sod walls of the ramparts visible above the surrounding rubble and earth, the top of the magazine rising above them, guns in firing position. In addition to the earthwork, Fort Lee is known to have had a number of structures associated with it, dating to the early 19th century and the Civil War era arming of the fort. The 1820 drawing of the fort (see View #1) provides evidence that a probable guardhouse, a subterranean magazine, and a probable barracks were located within the fort. The gable- roofed barracks was located along the north wall of the western salient and measured about forty by fifteen feet; it appears that the remains of this building have been overlaid within the enlarged parapet during the 1863 reconstruction of that wall (see Feature A on Sketch Map). Both the probable guardhouse and the subterranean magazine were located along the south wall of the western salient. The gable-roofed guardhouse measured about fifteen by twenty feet; it was also probably overlaid during the reconstruction (see Feature B). Just to the east (continued) NPS Foran 10-9ffl a (8-99) OMB Approval No.1020. 19 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number 7 Page 4 Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts of the guardhouse was the magazine (see Feature Q. During the Civil War rebuilding the magazine remained within the fort but a guardhouse and a new barracks were added just outside of the ramp entry on the north side of theathwa P Y approach (see View #4). Both the old subterranean magazine, approximately six by twelve feet and the new, larger one, approximately fifteen by forty feet, were located along the south wall of the western salient (see Features C and D). The older magazine may be brick, the new one apparently frame lined with double walls and sited higher than the old one, and both reinforced with a surround of stone and a covering of earth. On the south wall a large mound marks the magazine today; a U.S. Geodetic Survey marker was located here in 1914. The fort was constructed for four shell guns, eight-inch columbiads, mounted two on the eastern parapet, and one each on the north and south parapets, on circular platforms; these are visible in the ca. 1863 photograph (see features E-1 through E-4). Nearest the entry a guard house appears to have a gable roof and measured approximately eighteen feet square (see Feature F). With its gable-front, side en tryand single window facade, and its vertical board siding, it is visible in the ca. 1863 photograph (see View #3) outside the entry. The three-room barracks to the west of the guardhouse measured approximately eighteen by forty-two feet (see Feature G). Clearly there is a high potential for archaeological remains of the historic period. These remains may be described as of three sorts: construction and remodeling remains, building and structure remains, and occupational remains. The excavation of a witness trench through the earthwork could provide data about the sequence of the construction and changes at the fort, including variations in construction methods and materials, and the relative survival of portions dated to each phase of work on the fort. Excavation in the vicinity of known buildings and structures could provide confirming information about their forms and materials as well. Sampling throughout the site would locate additional features, unrecorded in the historical maps and photographs but likely to have been constructed here. These include structures dating to the Revolutionary War; privies, a cistern, well or other water source; more detailed information about site drainage; and the presence of a shot furnace. Location and excavation of these features, as well as of the surface accumulations of the living surfaces within and around the fort, will provide such remains as faunal and floral materials related to diet, food preparation and service items related to residence and recreation, as well as refuse of items as diverse as clothing and uniforms and armaments. These remains will yield data on the occupation periods for the fort as well as about the daily life of its occupants. (continued) RPSF ,104W. United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee 7 4 Salem (Essex County) Section number Page _77777-- .,.:Massachusetts of the guardhouse was the magazine (see Feature Q. During the Civil War rebuilding the magazine remained within the fort but a guardhouse and a new barracks were added,just outside of the-ramp entry on the north "side of the pathway approach (see View #4). Both the old subterranean magazine, approximatelysix by twelve ' feet, and the new, larger one, approximately fifteen by forty feet, were located along the south wall of the western salient (see Features C and D). The older magazine may be brick; the new one apparently.frame lined with double walls`and'sited'higher%than'the'old'one, and'both reinforced with a:surround of stone and.a'-covering=of earth., On the'south wall`a'large mound marks the magazine today; a.U S.'Geodetic Survey, 14 marker=was located here in 19 .' The fort-was constructed for four shell guns, eight-inch columbiads, mounte&two on'the eastern parapet,rand<one.each on the northrand'-south parapets, on circular platforms;these are visible' in the ca. 1863 photograph (see:features E-1 through E-4). Nearest the entry a guardhouse- appears to have a gable.roof and-measured approximately eighteen feet square (see Feature F). With its gable-front; side entry and single window facade, and its vertical board siding, it is visible in the ca. 1863 photograph.(see View #3) outside the entry ` The three-room barracks to the west of the guardhouse measured.approximatelyeighteen by forty-two'feet (see Feature:G). Clearly there:is a high potentialfor archaeological remains of thd'bistonc'period. These' remains may be described as.of,'three,sorts: construction and rernodeling remains, building and structure remains, andoccupational'remains.'The excavation'of a witness trench through the earthwork:could provide data about the sequence of the construction and changes'at the fort;including variations in construction methods'and materials;,and the relative'survival of portions datedto.each.phase of-work:on the fort. Excavation in the`vicinity'of known buildings and structures could provide confirming information about,their forms and materials as well. Sampling throughout the site would-locate additional features, unrecorded in the" historical maps and photographs but likely to have been constructed here. These include structures dating to the Revolutionary War; privies, a cistern, well, or other water source; more detailed information about site drainage; and the presence of a shot furnace. Location and excavation of these features; as well as of the surface accumulations of-the living surfaces within and around the fort, will provide such remains as faunal and floral materials related to diet, food preparation and,service items related to residence and recreation, as well as refuse of items as diverse as clothing and uniforms and armaments. These remains will yield data on the occupation periods for the fort as well as about the daily life of its occupants. (continued) rrvs cam iamda orae aac•a'rr+o-iozamie R 8eI ' United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet - Fort Lee Section number 7. 8 Page 5, 1 Salem (Essex County) ; Massachusetts Cartographic 'and photographic evidence confirms documentary research that the form: of Fort Lee has.suffered little 41teration since its last arming during the Civil War: First as a part of the Salem Willows Marine Park, and later as the Fort Lee Natural Preserve, the large lot that surrounds Fort Lee served as one of Salem's many public recreation areas. Photographs of ' the fort from the end of the 19th century and well into the 20th show that the'parcel was regularly mowed and thus cleared of accumulating'foliage. These photographs'show that the: ` profile of the fort was much as''it remains today, with the"highest section at the magazine in the'southwest portion, and lobes'of the ramparts visible around it: Probably during World War II, this degree of clearing was abandoned and trees and shrubs began to grow on the parcel and on the earthworks itself. Some of these were cleared and a path and steps with informational markers were added when ihe'Fort was recognized as, a'significant historic site and the surrounding'area was designated as a Natural Preserve during the national Bicentennial in 1976. 'Since that time, the area has experienced much regrowth and some additional natural and human-assisted erosion. None of these activities after the end of the period of'sgnificance have compromised the integrity of this important early earthwork fort. (end) 8. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Fort Lee, located on Salem Neck in the City of Salem, Essex County, Massachusetts, is a rare survival of an earthwork fort initially constructed late in the 18th century and not significantly altered since that time. Dating to 1776, the fort is one"of'only a small number of fieldwork' forts in the Commonwealth that have retained much of their original earthwork configuration. In its construction during the Revolution, and its subsequent repairs and remodelings during the War of 1912 and the Civil War, it evidences the role of the Salem and Beverly harbors in the national and regional defense. It relates to ongoing efforts by the provincial and federal government to defend the Atlantic coast, and demonstrates the common configuration of components chosen'for this function during the late 18th and early' 19th centuries. Its research potential is high due to its excellent preservation and the rarity of this form. Fort Lee is eligible for the National'Register of Historic Places under criteria A, C, and D and achieves significance at the local and state levels. The fragile resource'has been admirably resistant to erosion and new uses, retaining integrity of location, design, materials, workmanship, association, and feeling. The City of Salem, is located in Essex County Massachusetts, its harbor formed by a series of peninsulas and necks dividing the mouths of the Danvers, North, and South rivers, and tucked into the angle of the greater Atlantic coast as it turns from a north-south orientation to an east-west one extending out toward Cape Ann. The coves and necks characterizing this l NPS fM101O-BOOa OMB AYWrM'a w 102{-0018 United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places, Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number 8 Page 2 Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts environment made it,a hospitable and fmitful one for Native Americans..as.early as 10,000 years ago, and in increasing numbers until the early 17th century. The arrival of northern European:fishermen brought epidemic disease that killed much of this population. English visitors to the area became permanent settlers as early as 1626 with the arrival of Roger Conant and the establishment of a community at Naumkeag, the,"fishing ,place.", By the next decade these early arrivals were joined by settlers accompanying Massachusetts Bay governor Endecott, andfor two more decades settlers arrived in large,numbers to help,establish a thriving community of farmers, fishermen, and merchants on the peninsula between the North. and South rivers thatwas called Salem. Salem Neck, the eastem-most extension of this peninsula,was long held as common land by the town and city of Salem, isolated from the primary settlement areas to the south. It was historically a common pasture area as well as a-peripheral site well-suited to the culturally fringe activities that included small-pox quarantine sites for the,pesthouse and later the almshouse and the City Hospital. Though these activities did not survive into the 20th century, new fringe activities were added, including a power plant and a sewage treatment plant. Its seaside location proved important in the 19th century, with tenting in the 1850s and Juniper Point cottages constructed after 1870. The majority of the cottages date to the turn of the century and the development of the Salem Willows recreation park. During the post World War II period, the former location of the City Farm was subdivided..into 155 lots,for residential development. Many of these were sold to returning veterans, 72 by 1955, and an additional 25 were purchased by New England:Power for their high tension wire right of way. Salem Neck's location between Salem and.Beverly harbors made it.important for coastal defense. As early as 1690 and again in 1742 breastworks were constructed "at the Heights of the Neck." Historical.sources are not in agreement on a more specific site for these defenses. Both William Lewis Welch (1896) and James Duncan Phillips (1937) offer the convincing interpretation that these were constructed at Juniper Point on the eastern end of the Neck, on its south side, an excellent and appropriate location for a shoreline command. During the second quarter of the 19th century evidence of earthworks and embrasures were observable here and at the northern end at Hospital Point; both of:these were removed during the subsequent Salem Willows Park improvements (Welch 1896). Welch and Phillips rely on the description of Salem's defenses reported to the Provincial Congress, 19 June 1776: (continued) NPS F.10400-a QNB A.Plu! lW fOYI 18�` United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Placee, Continuation Sheet Fort Lee 8 3 Salem (Essex County) „ Section number Page Massachusetts "There are two forts 'erected on the Point of land in'Salem harbor No. I and No. 2 or old fort...theseforts are now overlooked'by another fort which is'" ` now erecting on an eminence not far distant--This fort''we must own does'credit to the gentm. of the Town of Salem and with the addition'of "some=heavy''pieces of ordinance store would enable them to make no despicable`figure in the'Comrnon defense.„ x They suggest that No. 1 refers to the earlier battery at Juniper Point and No: 2 to'the fort on'' Winter Island known successively as Fort Ann, William, and currently, Pickering. The new fort atop the eminence was named Fort Lee, reputedly after either' Gen'. Charles Lee, an engineer, or Gen. Henry,Lee, commander%of the forces in-the'northeast at the time of its constructions s> While many of the other coastal defenses from this-period were substantiallyrebuilt or allowed to decay, evidence suggests that Fort Lee was sporadically repaired bnt'never significantly altered. During the first phase (1794-1798) of`United States fortconstruction; the so-called'First'System of 1794-1808;'rebuildingit6ok;place at Fort Pickering, aswell'as at Marblehead's Fort Sewell and Eastern=Point in-Gloucester; but not at Fort Leer The"engineer' assigned to New England;'Etienne Becher, Sieur de Rochefontaine designed-the improvements to these forts as part of the federal'effort'tot establish"a national,system that=was toihave' ' included twenty-one harbors along the coast. Functioning as a regional defense system, the two forts defending Salem Harbor, Pickering in Salem and Sewell in'Marblehead, mark the importance of this harbor to the-national defense. During the second phase-(1798'-'1808) of the First System these' fort's received appropriations as'well. During the Second`System (1808-1816) appropriations these sameforts•received significant.funds. During"each''of'these national efforts, it appears that`Fort Lee'remained`untouched (American StatecPaper's, 1789- 1919). Finally during the'War of 1812;the Commonwealth of Massachusetts supplemented' federal efforts with work at Fort Lee and at Fort Phillips on Plum Island;to the north in Newbury. Of these early national period forts, only sections of Fort Pickering I and Fort Sewell are heavily modified, confirming the importance of Fort Lee and highlighting its largely unrecognized significance (Thompson 1985);' The earliest detailed drawing of the Fort dates to 1820 when the U; S: Army's"Engineering - Department conducted a-national survey of the existing seaboard fortifications as they planned for the overall defense of the coast (see View #1). The plan had been to rely heavily on a combination of markedly upgraded fortifications for Pickering on Winter Island and Naugus Head in Marblehead, but in new locations and expanded size; it was never executed during the following peaceful decades. Though Fort Lee was apparently not slated for reconstruction (continued) NPS Porn 1OM" OMB APp MW 1WP 19. United States Department of the Interior r, National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number 8 Page 4 Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts - at this time, the drawingis believed to ' reflect,the configuration of the,Fort:after its repair by the Commonwealth in response to war with Britain. This,plan„drawn,by Lieut. John R. Vinton, shows a very,;regular.four lobed fort;oriented to the cardinal directions, measuring approximately, 160 feet north-south and 170 feet east-west, and entered.from the.west. Within the parade, three,structures are indicated: probably,.4.guard house, a,barracks;.and a.small subterranean magazine. The barracks were sited along the angled wall north of the entry,in the landward salient, the guardhouse and magazine along the angled wall south of it, banked partially into the parapet. The next available.drawing of,the structure dates,,to 1863,plans for "alterations,in order,to accommodate four heavy guns,",Iabgled"Fort Lee, Salem;Mass., Sketch,-,Showing,Proposed. Alterations..." (see View #2). As in other coastal areas of the Confederacy and Union during, the Civil War the federal expenditures and building in Essex County was extensive, including repairs to the;federal forts,at Salem,,Marblehead, and Gloucester, to;Massachusetts,militia forts including.Fort Lee, Naugus Head in Marblehead, in,addition to the construction of Forts Conant (Gloucester),;Glover (Marblehead), and.Nicholas (Salisbury Poimp, pp osite Plum Island, .ewbury),apd a battery at EasternPoint.(Gloucester); Barton,Alexander, the,engineer touring the:small sites along the,New England coast in,anticipation,of upgrading,the coastal, defense,;prouded a description of the-fortin the spring,of.1.863,. He found."remains of an old earthwork well,sodded;; The scrap is a rubble stone,wall,,fallen-down,in some:places...might be easily altered to;accommodate four heavy guns;” (U.S. Army,ggcord Group ,77, Fortifications_.File, Drawer 127,,Sheet :17.2),:", This plan.of.Fort Lee, executed_,in preparation for the work,;indicates,the configuration of,both.the.existing structure;and�the planned alterations. Its delineation of the existing,fort is amore irregular figure,,slightly larger than . the earlier;drawing,,measuring approximately 175 feet,north-south and 225 feet.east-west. The alterations,proposed at this .time suggest.an effort to.correct the fort's irregularities and,to expand.it.to;abut 225,feet in each direction. The;greatestchange would come with the creation of a;_broad nearly square salient to the east;,smaller,half-round salients to the north and the south, and.a longer,blunted triangle at the west salient. A larger magazine.would be constructed along,the,long.south west wall,of the fort's parade. Its north and south guns would be mounted on circular platforms to fire-ogerthe,parapet, en barbette, while the,two east facing guns were to receive fore pintal mountings firing through embrasures. The property:bounds delineating the eight-sided parcel are also .indicated on,;the sketch, as are several,of the rock outcrops and quarries about 175' north west from the north salient and about 325' 'south west from the entry. (continued) NPS ram 10.900a ous App ' N fOY is United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number 8 Page • s Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts In 1863,Joseph,Felt:observed "the great stir, now;.daily,manifested in a suburb of our.city, is. applied to:the Forts Lee and Pickering." He continued: , "With regard to the genius,,exhibited in the plan and,execution of these two titfortifications, Col.,Alexander recently remarked,to some of our city,authorities, that there. are none in all our Country,.which,exceed those,of our,forts,,.Lee and Pickering. While Pickering particularly commands theMarbleheadside of our harbor, it assists in.the defense of the whole Port an Lee takes the lead in affording these assistances and commands the operations of Pickering and Juniper. The,.work to be,done on these two forts, is principally,earthworks.,They are expected to be done,not before Winter. ,The area of the works at,]?ickering.are expected to,be three times larger then they are at present. The proportion of;works at Lee are.not expected to be as large; as, those intended for Pickering. The United.States government hold themselves responsible for the.expenses of,the enterprise .May,the work,progress,mith all due diligence and success (Felt 1863). The higher,labor,costs of the Salem area, where laborers demanded $1.50.rather than $1.25 per day, lead the city of Salem,to appropriate $S,OQO. for the work. William_Schouler, historian of.Massachusetts in the.Civil War, also mentions work at FortL.ee, which was finished in October of that year, and where four eight-inch Columbiad shell guns would be mounted (1868: ,494). By August of 1864 the improvements to FortLee were measured and drawn by,Jonathan D. . Estabrook, the most detailed of the engineers drawings and the,last of those completed before the fort was:apparently. taken out of,service (see View #4),Much11'. of the rebuilding went,as planned, but the south.wall was redesigned This alteration,is at least partially explained by the location,of the magazines along this parapet, including the small "old magazine" and the larger new magazine. Outside the walls of the fort the plans show two small buildings on the north side of the path entering the fort, the guard house and the barracks. In addition, all four guns were,constructed to sit on circular. platforms,.; An additional variation from the plan is illustrated on.an 1869.drawing of the gun'emplacements, showing iron carriages on the eastern platforms and wooden ones on the,north;and south. This suggests that the fort had been at least partially, armed with more m1.odemili-guns,perh�Ti aps the smooth bore Rodman, more modern than planned and:more powerful aid modem than nearby ForPickering. Sections show the parade to be at an-elevation of about sixty-eight,feetabove low, water, while the guns are set,on a platform at about seventytwo feet.above low water, behind parapet superior cresting,of about seventy-six.feet. The earthen travers cover,of the magazines,were measured at the highest elevation at about eight-six feet. (continued) NPS Porro 10-900-a WS App WW 102 18 R.asl United States Department of the Interior " National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number a Page 6 Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts This configuration, with allowance for'som,e deterioration and erosion over the intervening early 130 years, can still be traced in more recent aerial views and-'in`a walk over of the site. No discussion of local activities during the later Spanish-American, First, or Second World Wars mentions Fort Lee. Though its ownership was somewhat obscure; its location within City-owned land secured it from privatedevelopment and irbecam"e°a natural open area extension of the emerging recreational area to the northeast'at the'Willows. The extent of work on the fort during this period is difficult to'document with available materials; but'it appears that the Fort'served as an' easily accessible observation area,' with roadways and'paths on the periphery. The area remained'cleared,probably until World'War Il when scrub and trees began to`proliferate. The'aeiial' view of the Fort Lee'area'of`Salem Neck taken in 1965 best demonstrates the integrity of'this earthwork fort (See View#5). 'Duhng'the Bicentennial in 1976, when the Fort was recognized'as'a significant historic site, the surrounding area`was designated as a Natural Preserve:' Some clearing was accomplished, and'steps up the embankments made access'easier, while signage informed`visitors'of the site's importance; the steps remain but not the plaques. The undisturbed nature of this site and the 'recent experience of archaeological testing on Salem Neck suggest that this large area bf open landwill yield'important`archaeological remains. The entire Salem Neck and Winter'lsland area beenshown16 yield' sites dating as early as the Middle Archaic period 6,000 to 8,000 years'ago. Site types expected include both habitation and task-activity types, with the potential for shell midden deposits ' particularly high. Sites such as these may yield information about prehistoric use of coastal zones during this long-period,' allowing for`development and testing of theories'about'change through time'. 'Investigating the significance and impacts of seasonal'versus more permanent occupationof ecological zones has'been of particular interest'to'scholars of'New England prehistory in recent years. Whether the sites were permanent or temporary, the seasonal use of particular site types aswell'as the various maritime resources''exploited at them is of scholarly interest. The archaeological potential extends into the historic period, particularly during the period of significance from 1776 to 1872. 'A walk-over reconnaissance of the site, in'combination with documentary evidence strongly suggests the survival of important period'archaeological remains here. Historic maps in combination with period descriptions'=particularly'that of Alexander in 1863, confirm that the fort retains much of its original'configuration with modest alterations made during the subsequenf 19th century improvements; Thus the opportunity exists to compare constructi6h materials and techniques of three periods; the Revolution, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. 'Comparisons of materials used, the sources of those materials, and the evolution of construction techniques, over three key periods:in (continued) r NPS Fan 10.900-e OMB MOA•v/ f024-0Dte W asl United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number 8 Page 7 Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts U.S. military history, are all possible with the rich resources promised at this site. In particular, site examination might consider an evaluation of improvements in the construction of the magazine as efforts to keep the powder dry led to improvements in venting and increased use of stone. Excavation would also allow for the confirmation of Alexander's description of a particular construction method at this site, where the area of the ditch was apparently secured through the construction of stone work to support the earthwork scarp. Further, the description and photograph of a sodded scarp suggests a close examination of this construction technique. Recovery of many types and periods of construction remains allow a further comparison of recommendations from published manuals, including those written by' Mahan (1846 and 1867), with the work actually undertaken in the field at the fort, for the earthwork and its associated buildings. The pivotal role of the Civil War period in the history of fort design and armaments development provides a range of questions suitable for investigation at this site including an examination of the gun platforms for alterations suggesting the rapid updating and improvements to armaments that might be expected during war time. Occupation features will provide information about a range of activities at the fort and about the men in occupation. Documentary records of the U.S. Army would allow reconstruction of the roster of men in the occupying company. hi combination with a site examination, information might be revealed about life within a home guard's fort, providing a contrast to more isolated outposts of a regularized army. The duration of fort occupation, the number of men stationed there and the nature of their activities, difference between urban and frontier and outpost forts, and differences in rank, so important to military history, are all discernible at sites of this small scale. Fort Lee is an important physical reminder of Salem's role in the defense of the coast and will yield important information about Massachusetts' role in this effort. (end) NPS Fa 1040" - OMB A�W IOt4W18 , United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number 9 Page I Salem (Essex County) .Massachusetts 9. MAJOR BIBLIOGRAPHICAL REFERENCE Bibliographv American State Papers, Documents Legislative and Executive of the Congress of the United States, 1789-1819. Walter Lowie and-,Matthew St. Clair Clarke, compilers. Washington, 1832. Brengle, Kim Withers, Nomination to the Nation Register for.Salem Willows, Historic District, 1992. , Essex Institute Photographs Collection. Felt, Joseph B„ "Historical Sketch of the Forts on Salem Neck. Essex Institute Historical Collections 5: 258-259 (1863). Frye, Col. James A. The First Regimant Massachusetts Heavy Artillery. U. S. Volunteers, in the Spanish-American War of,1898. Boston: The Colonial Company, 1899. Lewis, Emanuel Raymond. Seacoast Fortifications_of the U.S., An Introductory History. A publication>of the Presidio; 1970, 1979. Mahn, D. H. An Elementary Course of Military Engineering Part I New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1867. Mahn, D. H. A Treatise on Field Fortification 2ned. New York: Wiley & Putnam, 1846. Phillips, James Duncan. Salem in the Eighteenth Century. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1937. Salem Annual Reports, multiple years. Schoular, William. Massachusetts in the Civil War. Boston: E. P. Dutton & Co., 1868. (continued) NPSF " 10-90" QNB Approval Na.1020.0018 @b ) . United States Department of the Interior National Park Service National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet Fort Lee Section number 9, 10 Page 2, 1 Salem (Essex County) Massachusetts Bibliography (continued) Streeter, G. L. "The Story of Winter Island and Salem Neck." Essex Institute Historical Collections 33: 105-128 (1898). Thompson, Kenneth, Jr., "Federal Fort Construction in Essex County, 1794-1809." Essex Institute Historical Collections 121: 245-56 (1985). Welch, William Lewis, "Salem Neck and Winter Island." Essex Institute Historical Collections 33: 81-104 (1898). U.S. Army Records at the National Archives, Record Group 77, Office of Chief Engineers. Fortifications File: Drawer 18, Sheet 12 (1820-1822), Sheet 21 (#9, 1863), Sheet 29 (1864), Drawer 125 Sheet 17.2 (1863) and Drawer 259, Sheet 10 (1869). E171 Land File. Letters Received, 1836-1866. Figures 1. Fort Lee, 1820 Plan 2. Fort Lee, proposed alterations 1863 3. Fort Lee photograph 1865 4. Fort Lee drawing, 1864 5. Fort Lee arial photograph 1965 (end) 10. GEOGRAPHICAL DATA Boundary Description The boundaries of Fort Lee are indicated on the attached Assessors Maps #42 and 444, lot 20. Boundary Justification The parcel described above is that historically associated with Fort Lee, and corresponds to the public park established by the town around the fort. (end) �1 . & y . . /I� ' 3 .62 r�'• 1 r_..� � field—. �L/ \ S C l!'� • • A 6 Cemetery y� .•�t B t93. et 5 SKverb �,- ' stefs Point — \No ° <,s, 1 e Sw 8� ` Lyn — _ _ �. aTIPar $J ` t ti .t'fstt'keret �. \ -hthOuse Goue fv i* * ospital Paint Sabel; E D J r5\ 'iD y0 �\ Gott Course y> -/ 58ae(5 R a aV wood fury .PlaV9rn �'. rox I 'b t Point ��,Pomt a Boat <`� r .• 1 .r �'� Haste L u Prr8,{s nwood lRanm RF p; V ':''fuck ! _ t Pmn\\ . Parkl f'. "Point ! '� ____'—_ Gott CourseLobster 4ir - - / * Qar~ Sale Neck luniper S<h C tc '• PO(nt p � eegf.{` �v r� Nr /' n- ( ✓< sal e a o. _ 0,* _e o• 40 s o0 Z" o SPit!h .•'r1/'',Subs ; /Q �� en rt oPi l /<o�� . V•�`\¢ Sk Cp , a 1 l'� 5b s% psi �• _ dwerplejl •BaM RarrlPs, KnapP,* ! 1 Halltide / s Rock _'M Sale,,, /.�I • Commo • Saler LL r� ��/� \� Park t'-%' �'� .fit B �� Whim �O VT rte• X.CiYYt Wellman n—- Ledge C./, �. Ci ~Hal o t " 3 S�Iao4'710 38o `en wc ' I� Ig34 � .� �a at5tte 2: 19346 00047to4bo >~; atnt 5 e h Demy 3 )9 S4 t .180 47Lo 3oo Wha 1 4: 19 34/o 06o4710120 'it3 rLight Point +. Long Point SAI1.EM $ . ; •O , I N rth Sh p oue H,q R B 0 Palmer Point / W �• Pickeriftg Fointl ,I- o 143 .._ - - 7_�— 3"x swnMnearrdsKM 345 52' 30" t41 348 _ - = -- -— — 4 SCALE 1:25 000 500 0 S-V,T TS * IY May 9, 1994 ` O Chairperson 01>1"lonWealth 0� V Salem Historical Commission #01 1 Salem Green Salem, MA 01970 hJ `e 4 &g®P 4�e Dear Chairperson: i�te The Massachusetts Historical Commission is delighted to inform you that the Fort Lee, Salem, Massachusetts has been accepted by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Enclosed is a certificate listing this area in the National Register of Historic Places. For your information, an explanation of the National Register of Historic Places is enclosed. If you have any questions or wish further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Massachusetts Historical Commission. We share with you a sense of pride that the Fort Lee has been listed. Sincerely, IV\, _C Michael J. Connol Secretary of State Chairman, Massachusetts Historical Commission 6� cl0"li�< ud h B. McDonough utive Director State Historic Preservation Officer cc: Mayor Neil J. Harrington, City of Salem Josephine R. Fusco, City Clerk, City of Salem Claire W. Dempsey, Preservation Consultant Patrick Cloherty, Director, Salem Public Library Enclosures Massachusetts Historical Commission,Judith B. McDonough,Executive Director,State Historic Preservation Officer 80 Boylston Street,Boston,Massachusetts 02116-4802 (617)727-8470 Fax: (617)727-5128 TDD: 1-800-392-6090 Office of the Secretary of State,Michael J. Connolly,Secretary f so t L•,.y SV, , 1 12 14,ea[0' Lo OWNER VERIFICATION FORM I hereby verify that the following person(s) or entity(ies) is the owner of 100 MEMORIAL DRIVE -- LOCATION OF FORT LEE as listed in the local land or tax records and that such records were checked on JANUARY 5, 1993 Owner: CITY OF SALEM Mailing Address: 1 SALEM GREEN SALEM MA 01970 Source of Information: ASSESSORS OFFICE Signed: Date: Massachusetts Historical Commission,Judith B. McDonough,Executive Director, State Historic Preservation Officer 80 Boylston Street,Boston, Massachusetts 02116 (617) 7278470 Office of the Secretary of State, Michael j. Connolly,Secretary �StiTTs CJo d 0 o "lanWealth to ELIGIBILITY FOR NATIONAL REGISTER LISTING TO: MAYOR NEIL J. HARRINGTON FROM: MASSACHUSETTS HISTORICAL COMMISSION DATE: MARCH 12, 1993 The Massachusetts Historical Commission is pleased to inform you that the following property(ies) has been voted eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (36CFR 60) by the Commission acting as the State Review Board. By law, a property is afforded protection from adverse effect caused by Federally funded, licensed or assisted projects when it has been voted eligible for inclusion in the National Register. The nomination form will now be submitted to the National Register Office, National Park Service in Washington, D.C. for final review. If the National Register Office lists the property or determines it eligible for listing in the National Register it will be automatically be included in the Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places (95OCMR 71 ) . The State Register parallels the National Register in providing protection from State actions. For more information, you may wish to refer to your original notification letter or contact the Commission' s National Register staff. When we have received the determination of the National Register, Office you will be advised. PROPERTY/ADDRESS DATE VOTED ELIGIBLE FORT LEE, SALEM MARCH 10, 1993 RECEIVE® MAR 1719931 Salem Flaring Dept ' Massachusetts Historical Commission,Judith B.McDonough,Executive Director, State Historic Preservation Offcer 80 Boylston Street,Boston. Massachusetts 02116 (617) 727-8470 Office of the Secretary of State, Michael J. Connolly,Secretary StiTTS ��v � Iso d a h MAR 0 9 9994 'fMISSl February 24, 1994 om"t0nWea(th t0 Carol Shull National Register of Historic Places Department of the Interior National Park Service P.O. Box 37127 Washington, DC 20013-7127 Dear Ms . Shull : Enclosed please find the following nomination form: Fort Lee, Fort Avenue, Salem (Essex County) , Massachusetts, 01970 . The nomination has been voted eligible by the State Review Board and has been signed by the State Historic Preservation Officer. Because the city of Salem is a participant in the Certified Local Government program, the owners were notified of pending State Review Board consideration 60-120 days before the meeting and were afforded the opportunity to comment . Sincerely, thriedberg National Register Director Massachusetts Historical Commission enclosure CC : Chairman, Salem Historical Commission Mayor Neil J. Harrington, City of Salem Claire W. Dempsey, Preservation Consultant Patrick Cloherty, Director, Salem Public Library Massachusetts Historical Commission,Judith B.McDonough,Executive Director, State Historic Preservation Officer 80 Boylston Street,Boston, Massachusetts 02116 (617) 7278470 Office of the Secretary of State, Michael J. Connolly,Secretary �ONOIT CITY OF SALEM In City Council,October 14 , 1993 Ordered: That the Historic Commission and the City Planner investigate the availability of grant funds to restore Fort Lee. In City Council October 14 , 1993 Adopted Approved by the Mayor on October 18 , 1993 ATTEST: DEBORAH E . BURKINSHAW CITY CLERK I TO: Bill FR: Jane RE : Fort Lee Restoration DT: November 16 , 1993 As per City Council Order, I have (briefly) investigated the availability of grant funds to restore Fort Lee. We could apply to the National Trust Preservation Services Fund for a grant which can pay for consultant fees to develop the scope of work, prepare bid specs, etc. The grant cannot be used for the actual work. Grant application deadline is February 1, June 1, October 1 each year. If the Mass . Preservation Projects Fund (MPPF) gets appropriated by the State, we ,could apply for funding to do the work. Currently the MPPF Bill is in administration (coming out on 11/18) . It then goes to Ways and Means . Ruane & Berry have already signed on as sponsors . I am not familiar with any private foundations that provide preservation-type grants but I have called NEH for their most recent grant guidelines which I have not yet received. I am also waiting for the new Mass . Grantmaker' s book. However, most private foundations will only provide money to 501 (c) ( 3) non-profit organizations . Should I apply to the National Trust for the consultant fees? Should we do anything to push through the MPPF? Should I go to Mass . Grantmaker' s in Boston to look for private foundation grants? FORT LEE Fort Lee is an earthwork fort, its initial construction dating to 1776, and with subsequent repair and remodeling dating to 1812 and 1863 . It sits on a large parcel of 16 .03 acres and is presently maintained as a city park known as the Fort Lee Natural Preserve. It is a relatively simple earthwork fort laid out in an irregular four-pointed star form. It was reputedly named after either Gen. Charles Lee, an engineer, or Gen. Henry Lee, commander of the forces in the northeast at the time of its construction. The Fort area remained clean of trees and shrubs until World War Two, when mowing and clearing was abandoned and vegetation began to grow on the parcel and on the earthworks itself . Some of these were cleared and a path and steps with information markers were added when the Fort was recognized as a significant historic site and the surrounding area was designated as a Natural Preserve during the national Bicentennial in 1976 . The steps remain, but not the plaques . i Fort Lee is one of only a small number of field work forts in the Commonwealth that have retained much of their original earthwork configuration. It is a rare sury;val of an earthwork fort not significantly altered since its construction. The Fort evidences the role of the Salem and Beverly harbors in the national and regional defense. It is an important physical reminder of Salem' s role in the defense of the coast and will yield important information about Massachusetts ' role in this effort. The size of the open parcel and the environmental features strongly suggest that a broad spectrum of archaeological resources survives there - construction and remodeling remains, building and structure remains and occupational remains. One prehistoric site has been reported from the area, and an additional ten sites reported on Salem Neck and on nearly Winter Island. Recent environmental review testing with this larger area of the Neck and the Island strengthens further the likelihood that archaeological deposits survive. The entire Salem Neck and Winter Island area has been shown to yield sites dating as early as 6000 to 8000 years ago. Its research potential is high, particularly during the period of significance from 1776 to 1872, due to its excellent preservation and rarity of this form. Fort Lee is pending listing to the National Register of Historic Places . DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY NEW ENGLAND DIVISION,CORPS OF ENGINEERS &ATTENTION 424 A ROAD WALTHAM, MASSSACHUSHUS ETTS 02254-9149 REPLY TO OF July 7, 19977" r p sr` Real Estate Division Conveyancing Branch JUL 14 1997 � Mr. Larry McIntire, Director Salem ?lannnb Dept. Park and Recreation City of Salem City Hall Salem, Massachusetts 01970 Re : Defense Environmental Restoration Program for Formerly Used Defense Sites DERP-FUDS) , Former Fort Lee Station, Salem, Massachusetts (Site No. D01MA0552) Dear Mr. McIntire : In 1995, the former Fort Lee, Salem, Massachusetts was evaluated for restoration eligibility under the Defense Environmental Restoration Program for Formerly Used Defense Sites (see the enclosed Findings and Determination of Eligibility) . The Department of Defense determined that no remediation project is appropriate at this site. In closing our files on this site, we did not see an indication that you were notified of our findings and, therefore, we are so notifying you. If you have any questions concerning this matter, feel free to contact Anne Laster of this office at (617) 647-8584 . Sincerely, Frederick W. Colman Chief, Real Estate Division Enclosure . DEFENSE ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION PROGRAM F FOR FORMERLY USED DEFENSE SITES g FINDINGS AND DETERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY PROPERTY OF THE CITY OF SALEM (FORT LEE) JUL j a 1997 SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS SITE NO. D01MA0552 Salern ,Mani,%79 dept. FINDINGS OF FACT 1. The 2.3 acre fee parcel was acquired by the United States by purchase in 1867. 2. The site was known as Fort Lee. The Army used the fort existing at the site (which had been constructed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts) to defend Salem Harbor. This fort included four shell guns, 8 inch columbiads, mounted two on the eastern parapet, and one each on the northern and southern parapets, on circular platforms. In addition, when purchased by the federal government, the fort included a barracks, guard house, and underground magazine. Information from the Massachusetts Historical Commission indicates that the Army improved the fort in 1869 by replacing the platforms with iron carriages to allow the guns to be upgraded with more modem weapons, possibly the smooth bore Rodman. The fort was not under other than DOD control during the period of DOD use. 3. By Indenture dated 12 May 1922, the Secretary of War conveyed the 2.3 acre fee parcel to the City of Salem. The deed conveyed the land for "public park purposes, or for other public use only." If the land was not used for some public purpose, the land or part thereof would revert to the United States. In addition, the deed contained a recapture clause at any time and in any manner for any and all military, naval and lighthouse purposes and the United States would not be liable for any damages or compensation to the City for use for these purposes. The deed did not contain a restoration provision or other special conditions. DETERMINATION Based on the foregoing findings of fact, the site has been determined to be formerly used by DOD. It is therefore eligible for the Defense Environmental Restoration Program - Formerly Used Defense Sites established under 10 U.S.C. 2701, e"se 1.3 DATE EARLE C CHARDSON Colonel, Corps of Engineers Commanding FORT LEE Fort Lee is an earthwork fort, its initial construction dating to 1776, and with subsequent repair and remodeling dating to 1812 and 1863 . It sits on a large parcel of 16 .03 acres and is presently maintained as a city park known as the Fort Lee Natural Preserve. It is a relatively simple earthwork. fort laid out in an irregular four-pointed star form. It was reputedly named after either Gen. Charles Lee, an engineer, or Gen. Henry Lee, commander of the forces in the northeast at the time of its construction. The Fort area remained clean of trees and shrubs until World War - Two, when mowing and clearing was abandoned and vegetation began to grow on the parcel and on the earthworks itself . Some of these were cleared and a path and steps with information markers were added when the Fort was recognized as a significant historic site and the surrounding area was designated as a Natural Preserve during the national Bicentennial in 1976 . The steps remain, but not the plaques . Fort Lee is one of only a small number of field work forts in the Commonwealth that have retained much of their original earthwork configuration. It is a rare survival of an earthwork fort not significantly altered since its construction. The Fort evidences the role of the Salem and Beverly harbors in the national and regional defense. It is an important physical reminder of Salem' s role in the defense of the coast and will yield important information about Massachusetts ' role in this effort. The size of the open parcel and the environmental features strongly suggest that a broad spectrum of archaeological resources survives there - construction and remodeling remains, building and structure remains and occupational remains. One prehistoric site has been reported from the area.; and an additional ten sites reported on Salem Neck and on nearly Winter Island. Recent environmental review testing with this larger area of the Neck and the Island strengthens further the likelihood, that archaeological deposits survive. The entire Salem Neck and Winter Island area has been shown to yield sites dating as early as 6000 to 8000 years ago. Its research potential is high, particularly during the period of significance from 1776 to 1872, due to its excellent preservation and rarity of this form. Fort Lee is pending listing to the National Register of Historic Places . �Stiz TS >♦ �I OG r + 8. 1993 * * Sal®he ,ming Dept �rNIISSl0� om"LOnWealth told ELIGIBILITY FOR NATIONAL REGISTER LISTING TO: MAYOR NEIL J. FARRINGTON FROM: MASSACHUSETTS HISTORICAL COMMISSION DATE: OCTOBER 14, 1993 The Massachusetts Historical Commission is pleased to inform you that the following property(ies) has been voted eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (36CFR 60) by the Commission acting as the State Review Board. By law, a property is afforded protection from adverse effect caused by Federally funded, licensed or assisted projects when it has been voted eligible for inclusion in the National Register. The nomination form will now be submitted to the National Register Office, National Park Service in Washington, D.C. for final review. If the National Register Office lists the property or determines it eligible for listing in the National Register it will be automatically be included in the Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places (950CMR 71 ) . The State Register parallels the National Register in providing protection from State actions. For more information, you may wish to refer to your original notification letter or contact the Commission' s National Register staff. When we have received the determination of the National Register Office you will be advised. PROPERTY/ADDRESS DATE VOTED ELIGIBLE FORT LEE, SALEM. OCTOBER 13, 1993 Massachusetts Historical Commission 80 Boylston Street, Boston,Massachusetts 02116 (617) 7278470 Office of the Secretary of State,Michael J.Connolly,Secretary Pon 7 Community: SALEM ELIGIBILITY FOR NATIONAL REGISTER CLGC OPINION: Date Reviewed Received District Date g Individual Inventory Form: Type: Name: Fort Lee Other Off Fort Avenue CLGC i Honor nitiated Address: ITC Grant Action: DISTRICTS Eligible INDIVIDUAL PROPERTIES --Ineligibleneeded More informion X Eligible district Eligible , also inndistrict Eligible onl o Ineligible information needed D D inforC More B O A National CRITERIA' Local State ire Dempsey Dept. LEVEL: Places Claire for Salem Planning under STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE by al Register .of Historic Nation Dating to 1776 , the fort is � Fort Lee is eliglth ible at the State level. forts in the common Colony' s the „ C. umber of 18th I£ relates closely efforts to and criteria A' a small-numb subsequent both one of only subsequent altered. and to arch not subseq Great Britain, .cal Potential are res' that were war with archaeolog Furth ►1 and and its raritbe signifigant Preparation for Its research form s i n the coast. unalt rarity to setting, de g defend due to its largely be of sufficient of location, great property to integrity may Prove the p It retains is at the national level. and association. n for t workmanship, feelings ed to provide better protectio The City of Salem should be urged important site. MHC STAFF OPINION Date Reviewed: More information needed Date Received: Disagree Concur Opinion: Comm_ StiT1S * .J c �: SALEM PLUNK DEPT. May 17, 1990 ` S e llq I S e Ms. Jane A. Guy "lanWealth toy Planning Assistant Salem Planning Department One Salem Green Salem, MA 01970 Dear Ms. Guy: The Massachusetts Historical Commission staff has reviewed the additional information submitted by you and Claire Dempsey on Fort Lee and concurs with the CLGC opinion that this site is eligible for the National Register. Fort Lee appears to meet criteria A, C and D on the state level as a well preserved, substantially unaltered 18th century earth work fortification. As a Certified Local Government, the City of Salem may to proceed with a National Register nomination for this property. Please contact us if you have any further questions. Sincerely, Sw •�a James W. Bradlerf Director, Divisieservation Planning Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer Massachusetts Historical Commission JWB/hl Massachusetts Historical Commission,Valerie A.Talmage,Executive Director, State Historic Preservation Officer 80 Boylston Street,Boston, Massachusetts 02116 (617) 727-8470 Office of the Secretary of State, Michael J. Connolly,Secretary Xj r0 T . LEE Dedication Program Salem Bicentennial Commission Natural Preserve Project SUNDAY, JUNE 20, 1976 Salem, Massachusetts OTS �r AfMISS`0 October 11, 1989 -o 'n onWeallh 10 Ms. Jane Guy Community. Development Office City of Salem One Salem Green Salem, Mass. 01970 Dear Ms Guy: MHC staff have now reviewed the eight properties submitted on the Salem Certified Local Government Commission regarding eligibility for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Our findings are as follows: 1. Derby-Powderhouse Wharf. We concur that the property is ineligible for the National Register. Please note, however, that much more extensive documentation would be requiredto establish whether Winter Island as a whole might retain sufficient integrity and/or archaeological potential to merit listing as a district. The integrity and/or value of information that remains in the Derby-Powderhouse Wharf itself does not appear to merit consideration individually under Criterion D. 2 . Derby Wharf/Central Wharf. We disagree on the eligibility of this property and request further information. MHC staff are uncertain as to what exactly is being presented for review. Derby and Central wharves are listed on the National Register as part of the Derby Waterfront Historic District (NR 5/17/76) . Are the seawalls associated with these wharves being presented for separate consideration? In this case, more information is necessary for evaluation. The materials presented do not clearly indicate whether the 1938 and post-1938 walls represent a separate and distinct structural system, or whether they are a component representing the modification or maintenance of an existing structure (the Massachusetts Historical Commission,Valerie A.Talmage,Executive Director, Stale Historic Preservation Officer 80 Bovlston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116 (617) 727-8470 Office of the Secretary of State, Michael f. Connolly,Secretary wharf, . fire LhL _aawalis physically connected to the wharves? Was infill placed between the seawalls and the earlier walls? Photographs and diagrams seem necessary, as well as plans showing the location and sequence of seawall construction for the period in question. Without information to the contrary, MHC staff is inclined to consider the seawalls as an integral, functional component of the wharves, and within the boundaries of the Derby Waterfront Historic District. The wharves themselves represent contributing elements of the District, for which a period of significance of 1700-1899 has been established. However, since the wharves have lost all their associated warehouses and buildings, MHC staff is of the opinion that they lack sufficient integrity to merit individual listing. None of the materials presented substantiate any reason for considering the wharves to have significance above the local level, even though other components of the District may certainly merit recognition for national level significance. As the District is presently defined, then, the 1938 and post-1938 seawalls appear (pending on further information) to represent an alteration to a contributing element. Consideration of these 20th century walls as contributing components of the District would require a substantial reevaluation and extension of the period of significance for the District as a whole to include the period 1900-1940. This would involve an evaluation of all early 20th century elements in the District, and the development of an argument for its continued significance through this period. 3. Fort Lee. We require more information at present. While MHC staff agree that Fort Lee is of historical significance, we do not feel that adequate information has been provided to justify either integrity or level of significance. What was the impact of the Bicentennial "cleanup" on the fortification's integrity? Copies of late 19th century photos and maps referred to on the area form were not attached; these as well as further information on buildings visible in these historic photos, will be useful. (Are these buildings extant?) The present photos do not provide sufficient information to assess eligibility under criterion C. Aerial photos would be a possible source for justifying Criterion C. It is likely that the Fort is significant on the local level, though insufficient information was provided on the present form; this would require amplification if a nomination were to proceed. 4. Naumkeaa Steam Cotton Mills. Again, more information is necessary in order for MHC staff to complete our review. We agree that this is a complex of significance to the industrial history of Salem (though more likely on the local than the state level) . However, information and photos provided are insufficient to allow staff to evaluate the integrity of the complex and to understand it as a whole. We will need more detailed photographs, showing the buildings at a closer distance, and keyed to a site map. In addition, information should be included on the actual extent of changes to the buildings (including photos showing window replacements) , during the course of renovation. 5. North River Canal. We concur that this property is ineligible for the National Register. Based on the information provided, the canal does not appear to be part of a potential district that includes other elements from its period of major use. 6. St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church. We concur that the church (and rectory) is eligible for the National Register, fulfilling Criterion A and C on the local level. 7. South River Seawalls. We concur that the property is ineligible for the National Register. 8. Pioneer Village. MHC staff are of the opinion that Pioneer Village does not meet the criteria for listing on the National Register. While Pioneer Village undoubtedly represents an important local instance of early 20th cewntury historic reconstruction, the evidence presently in hand does not suggest an exceptional impact on subsequent reconstruction philosophy or practice on the regional or national level. The loss of half of the area's dozen 1930 buildings also makes consideration for listing problematic. Moreover, the loss of most (if not all) of the landscaping and of the minor contributing elements (workplaces, etc. ) seriously compromises the area's setting, as does the construction of a number of modern intrusions, even though some of these attempt to replicate the 1930 reconstruction. While the city may wish to recotgnize and develop strategies to enhance this important local resource, National Register listing does not appear to be a viable option. I have enclosed a National Register form and documentation checklist for the nomination of St. Nicholas Church. As a Certified Local Government, the Salem Historical Commission may choose to proceed with National Register nominations for the other' evaluated properties even if the Massachusetts Historical Commission disagrees that these properties meet the requirements for listing. However, we would not be able to provide technical assistance on these nominations, nor could we guarantee their successful listing in the National Register. If you have further questions about our opinions on these properties, please contact either myself or Michael Steinitz , Survey Director. And if you have any questions about the National Register or Certified Local Government programs, do not hesitate to call us. Sincerely, J t Betsy Friedberg Director, National Register Program Massachusetts Historical Commission BF/cd Enclosure CITY OF SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS PLANNING DEPARTMENT ONE SALEM GREEN 01970 (978)745-9595 Ext. 311 a Fax (978)740-0404 August 7, 2001 Stephen A. Olausen Executive Director Public Archaeology Laboratory 210 Lonsdale Avenue Pawtucket, RI 02860 RE: Massachusetts Revolutionary War/War of 1812 Suvrey American Battlefield Protection Program Dear Mr. Olausen I am in receipt of your letter to Lance Kasparian, Chairman of the Salem Historical Commission. I have reviewed the City of Salem Plannning Department's files for Fort Pickering and Fort Lee and am enclosed some documents that were not part of the National Register nominations. If possible, I would be pleased to get a copy of your completed survey. It may be useful to us as we seek funding assistance for restoration work. Sincerely Jane A. Guy Asst. Community Development Director :w DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY NEW ENGLAND DIVISION,CORPS OF ENGINEERS 424SSA ROAD WALTHAM,MASSACHUSETTS ETTS 02254-9149 REPLY TO ATTENTION OF. July 7, 1997r Real Estate Division Conveyancing Branch JUL L _i 1997 Sat-Inn Mr. Larry McIntire, Director Park and Recreation City of Salem City Hall Salem, Massachusetts 01970 Re : Defense Environmental Restoration Program for Formerly Used Defense Sites DERP-FUDS) , Former Fort Lee Station, Salem, Massachusetts (Site No. D01MA0552) Dear Mr. McIntire: In 1995, the former Fort Lee, Salem, Massachusetts was evaluated for restoration eligibility under the Defense Environmental Restoration Program for Formerly Used Defense Sites (see the enclosed Findings and Determination of Eligibility) . The Department of Defense determined that no remediation project is appropriate at this site. In closing our files on this site, we did not see an indication that you were notified of our findings and, therefore, we are so notifying you. If you have any questions concerning this matter, feel free to contact Anne Laster of this office at (617) 647-8584 . Sincerely, Frederick W. Colman Chief, Real Estate Division Enclosure . DEFENSE EN MONMENTAL RESTORATION PROGRAM FOR FORMERLY USED DEFENSE SITES FINDINGS AND DETERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY . + j PROPERTY OF THE CITY OF SALEM (FORT LEE) 1991 SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS � SITE NO. D01MA0552 f { i FINDINGS OF FACT 1. The 2.3 acre fee parcel was acquired by the United States by purchase in 1867. j 2. The site was known as Fort Lee. The Army used the fort existing at the site (which had been constructed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts) to defend Salem Harbor. This fort included four shell guns, 8 inch columbiads, mounted two on the eastern parapet, and one each on the northern and southern parapets, on circular platforms. In addition, when purchased by the federal government, the fort included a barracks, guard house, and underground magazine. Information from the Massachusetts Historical Commission indicates that the Army improved the fort in 1869 by replacing the platforms with iron carriages to allow the guns to be upgraded with more modem weapons, possibly the smooth bore Rodman. The fort was not under other than DOD control during the period of DOD use. 3. By Indenture dated 12 May 1922, the Secretary of War conveyed the 2.3 acre fee parcel to the City of Salem. The deed conveyed the land for "public park purposes, or for other public use only." If the land was not used for some public purpose, the land or part thereof would revert to the United States. In addition, the deed contained a recapture clause at any time and in any manner for any and all military, naval and lighthouse purposes and the United States would not be liable for any damages or compensation to the City for use for these purposes. The deed did not contain a restoration provision or other special conditions. DETERMINATION Based on the foregoing findings of fact, the site has been determined to be formerly used by DOD. It is therefore eligible for the Defense Environmental Restoration Program - Formerly Used Defense Sites established under 10 U.S.C. 2701, et se . 13vjre _s DATE &EARLE4CCHWARDSON Colonel, Corps of Engineers Commanding p n "'Tt 2F lop ei- 5 �'. *Ti A>1 1 y !'l F '{ AloCrcw�"r� Y rt ' I IT .y ..vv jq i 1 ytye z-• 'E` � y �i t� rm � i ♦3�aty, r4'� �`y FE• f r F �� '� S F sit ��. � i •� x �� x, �$Y� S far };> r� I r� r �k l xis$ a a 11P", {• I , a R4� r 4 2 iy�}�a I ' Ty •c �.'. C "�i» 5 m* i. "it � � yi� Y dh �44b. . a 4 > f 1`t'd I f it SIR i_ ti LOOiMod— MON dys$ alp a 10 i4 x. - FUN gk i � c � , �.'"ya x� s dad { � � •ya tr�� L�.� � +� k � s wr elk •a a ,� '. sa"kx W�F".�� r� I d s� 1 c y -`v� '� :. �` a U' � 'i xk" • s �� .aN2t��efs. f�1 v+d x ".r' �, s� y; r � '� r ma-z.r�"' kht.Y.jF� "r. sl .:i � .�y •'ab � y'.' S"'1fL f � d�'4'1 s' � x- � �i �Ye�! "� `.cf#��5� � •I : ?out to 's$$y"5 q} a�• ills dt y � ist"w � ,i'a' i"ro G t +". ,.mus Y3"�i.,.'r } n: I a �{ 'f y d {p Y Zl E�. s'z eb. +f a y' r n s a �{ r ig1 4i fi I Hiss p� P ;� �'Q �ts� A ¢�,�gMgy�� ♦4 '{Yy`•-�k.",{0®�N�� y t�� k II Sy'�J �"`L%t �ti{� �i p +''z4 •�y' Y `� T �=d �, "v 'a:- �' v a.ix y-"_r-s: 6 4 F _ S� �S' TTS * -1 s CJ o C d _ a COD0 9c AfMISS1O, ei�� om"zOnWealth tali ELIGIBILITY FOR NATIONAL REGISTER LISTING TO: MAYOR NEIL J. HARRINGTON FROM: MASSACHUSETTS HISTORICAL COMMISSION DATE: MARCH 12 , 1993 The Massachusetts Historical Commission is pleased to inform you that the following property(ies) has been voted eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (36CFR 60) by the Commission acting as the State Review Board. By law, a property is afforded protection from adverse effect caused by Federally funded, licensed or assisted projects when it has been voted eligible for inclusion in the National Register. The nomination form will now be submitted to the National Register Office, National Park Service in Washington, D.C. for final review. If the National Register Office lists the property or determines it eligible for listing in the National Register it will be automatically be included in the Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places (95OCMR 71 ) . The State Register parallels the National Register in providing protection from State actions. For more information, you may wish to refer to your original notification letter or contact the Commission' s National Register staff. When we have received the determination of the National Register Office you will be advised. PROPERTY/ADDRESS DATE VOTED ELIGIBLE FORT LEE, SALEM MARCH 10, 1993 RECEIVED MAR 17 1993 Svkm Planning UepL Massachusetts Historical Commission,Judith B.McDonough,Executive Director, State Historic Preservation Officer 80 Boylston Street,Boston, Massachusetts 02116 (617) 727-8470 Office of the Secretary of State, Michael J. Connolly,Secretary '� tl �Lift ( a t� 4 ti r 't x`49- \ •� 41 �L�i w i,r'� f:� J Ke' �.. :, - \ ^tee-�?�'� rr+et +�"•r,,. f L�a ti`a`Yh. i .t t 1 lV?L..h .ft'F p 0 44 ,It IP i r• a r, It S d'S N j i i a,...�„,:. ,. .,•........? "< hi,a-1 l=. M•`?Nxt•...., riti,. .".$.}: .. r'r,7:•'. '}. uz•;.�. I iN n l� y E -I, wppyy �� -'�'� 4'1S�—ter Zy' _ '� + <.ws•10 .Yi xr ` >."V! �� sYp 4 _ r •M�qr' t �F t lljpj' d� i yam` i 1'/+ Y) E Q,•' ei• a o y, / 1\A�f ! 1 � `V• it i��cV'� � 1 1 4! N h • L r � 1 ,.. ,,. .. . . - ,,. .. .. ;. � ..__ ..__.__.. .__ _-. ..._..�-_,-�._.._1. O � � 0 I � Y � � � � � � � � � � �� _� �� 9 s • o� .9 fi� � , N M1i:ti� �V�' J Q � v o w W �u W W v La S-� s Fort Lee: Description Fort Lee is an earthwork fort, its initial construction dating to 1776, and with subsequent repair and remodelling dating to 1812 and 1863. Fort Lee is located in the City of Salem, Essex County, Massachusetts, on Salem Neck, a small penninsula that separates the harbors of Salem and Beverly. The Neck itself is the outermost end of the penninsula that forms the central and most densely settled part of the City, projecting into the harbor from the mainland out to the northeast. It is approximately 1� miles in length, while its width varies from ; to z mile. Most of the Neck is relatively flat, rising in elevation from sea level toward its center approximately ten to twenty feet (three to six meters) above high water mark. The area around Fort Lee rises to over 70 feet above low water mark, a point measured from. the fort's magazine, the highest part of the fort and the highest portion of the Neck. Fort Lee is located about two-thirds of the distance out along the Neck and sits on a large parcel of 16.03 acres owned by the City of Salem and maintained as a city park known as the Fort Lee Natural Preserve. It is adjacent to the recreational area known as Salem Willows, developed during the 1870s and also maintained as a city park, located on the northeastern end of the Neck, and the associated residential area located on the eastern shore, both currently being nominated to the National Register of Historic Places. The Fort Lee Historic District and the Salem Willows Historic District share Memorial Drive and Fort Avenue as a boundary. Not far away, off the Neck's southern shore is the Winter Island Historic and Archaeological District. The portions. of the Neck to the south of the Fort Lee have been more recently developed, with the subdivision of City land for the sale of residential lots after World war Two along the northwestern portion of the Neck, and the construction of the New England Power Substation in 19- and the South Essex Sewer District Treatment Plant in 19- . These areas are divided from from Fort Lee by a right of way for high tension wires from the power plant. The size of the open parcel of Fort Lee argues strongly for the survival of archaeological resources there. One prehistoric site has been reported from the area, and an additional ten sites reported on Salem Neck and on nearby Winter Island. The area is high and well drained yet in close proximity to the harbor and the ocean, environmental features that make the survival of archaeological sites and resources ces likely. . Recent environmental review testing within this larger area of the Neck and the Island have revealed the reliablility of these avocationally and professionally reported site locations, and strengthens further the liklihood that archaeological deposits and a variety of features are likely. These adjacent confirmed sites have revealed occupation dating of the Middle Archaic period, and reflect a range of activities within this area. Proximity to the harbor and the rivers that feed it make the exploitation of marine resources likely, and a variety of site types, including habitations, resource collection, and tool maintenance sites are likely. Additional evidence about the seasonality of resource exploitation and settlement would be evidenced in the sites and features that can be predicted for this area. European settlement .in the area dates to the 1620s, but it appears that their activities on Salem Neck were focused primarily on the areas directly adjacent to the shore rather than the higher and rockier interior of the Neck. Although there is some speculation that this rise was armed during the 17th century, the best data suggests that Fort Lee was constructed in 1776 to improve the defences of Salem Harbor, augmenting Fort Pickering on Winter Island and Fort Juniper on the lower eastern shore of the Neck. The fort was constructed at the highest point on the Neck, and is located approximately 500 feet from the northern shore, and 1400 feet from the south. Its current overgrown condition makes it difficult to observe its current configuration when approaching it from below, but, with the additional information provided by historic photographs and maps, ariel views and a walk-over along the ramparts confirm its present form. It is a relatively simple earthwork fort in an irregular four pointed star form. The elevated ramparts that form the star are clearly visible in ariel views as well as on the U.S.G.S. quadrangle for the area, where their outlines can be followed along - 2 _ the eighteen meter (approximately fifty-five feet) contour above high water, the highest point of the parcel. These ramparts were constructed of earth frau ditches located around the circumference, and the stratigraphy of pounding down the earth before adding additional layers of soil can be seen along eroded edges. The ditches around the ramparts are not continuous due to outcropings of rock ledge. Though from the interior of the fort they are clearly man-made elements, from the outside they are difficult to distinguish from the natural rise and outcropping. The star is oriented in an east-west orientation, facing the Salem Harbor. The western landward rampart is the location of the sloping entry ramp on the southwest, a blunt salient of trapezoidal form. Its opposite salient on the east, oriented to the end of the neck and .the harbor, is nearly square. Ey contrast, the remaining rampart pairs to the north and the south are semi-circular. The ramparts are topped by parapets to protect its central parade, commonly the location of the magazine. The present shape of these ramparts reflects the earliest consrtruction of the site, Civil War era modifications of the basic plan, and subsequent erosion of the earthworks. As the plan of the fort prepared after the last rearming during the Civil War suggest, the fort is regular but not symmetrical, accomodating the structures of both the early 19th century and the Civil War era arming of the fort. A drawing of 1820 provides evidence that a magazine, a subterranean magazine, and a barracks were all located within the Fort. The latter was located along the north wall of the western salient, and measured about fifteen by twenty feet; it appears that the remains of this building have been encorporated within the reconstruction of that wall during the Civil War rebuilding. The former was located along the south wall of the western salient, and measured fifteen by twenty feet; it was incorporated within that reconstruction. During the Civil War rebuilding the magazines remained within the fort but a guardhouse and a new barracks were added just outside of the ramp entry on the north side of the pathway approach. At that time a small, single-story, frame building was located at the southwest of the Fort, off the ramparts, which can be traced on a later ariel view as well. - 3 - On the eastern ramparts large guns remain in place, possible dating to the Fort's last re-arming during the Civil War. Both are now gone and none were of sufficient size to compromise the integrity of the structure. on the south wall a large mound marks the magazine; a U.S. Geodetic Survey marker was located here in 1914. Map and photographic evidence confirms documentary research that the form of Fort Lee has suffered little alteration since its last arming. First as a part of the Salem Willows Marine Park, and later as the Fort Lee Natural Preserve, the large lot that surrounds Fort Lee served as one of Salem's many public recreation areas. Photographs of the Fort . from the end of the 19th century and well into the 20th show that the parcel was regularly mowed and thus cleared of accumulating foliage. These photographs show that the profile of the fort was much as it remains today, with the highest section at the magazine in the southwest portion, and lobes of the ramparts visible around it. Probably during World War Two, this level of clearing was abandoned and trees and shrubs began to grow on the parcel and on the earthworks itself. Some of these were cleared and a path and steps with informational markers were added when the Fort was recognized as a significant historic site and the surrounding area was designated as a Natural Preserve during the national Bicentennial in 1975. Since that time the area has experienced much regrowth and some additional natural and human-assisted erosion. None of these activities after the end of the period of significance have compromised the integrity of this important early earthwork fort. - 4 - Fort Lee: Significance Fort Lee, located on Salm Neck in the City of Salem, Essex County Massachusetts, is a rare survival of an earthwork fort first constructed late in the 18th century and not significantly altered since that time. Dating to 1776, the fort is one of only a small number of forts in the Commonwealth that have retained much of their original earthwork configuration. In its construction during the Revolution, and its subsequent repairs and remodellings during the war of 1812 and the Civil war, it evidences the role of the Salem and Beverly harbors in the national and regional defence. It relates to ongoing efforts by the provincial and federal government to defend the Atlantic coast, and demonstrates the cimmmon form chosen .for this function during the late 18th and early 19th centuries there. Its research potential is high due to its excellent preservation and the rarity of this form. Fort Lee is eligible to the National Register of Historic Places under criteria A, C, and D and achieves significance at the State level. The fragile resource has been admirably resistant to erosion and new uses, retaining integrity of location, design, materials, workmanship, .association, and feeling. The City of Salem is located in Essex County Massachusetts, its harbor formed by a series of peninnsulas and necks dividing the mouths of the Danvers, North, and South rivers, and tucked into the angle of the greater Atlantic coast as it turns from a north-south orientation to an east-west one extending out toward Cape Ann. The coves and necks characterizing this environment made it a hospitable and fruitful one for Native Americans as early as 10,000 years ago, and in increasing numbers until the early 17th century. The arrival of northern European fishermen decimated this population, and English visits became permanent settlements as early as 1626 with the arrival of Roger Conant and the establishment of a community at Naumkeag, the "fishing place." By the next decade these early arrivals were joined by settlers accompanying Massachusetts Bay governor Endicott, and for two more decades settlers arrived in large numbers to help establish a thriving community of farmers, fishermen, and merchants on the penninsula between the North and South rivers that was called Salem. - 5 - Salm Neck, the eastern-most extension of this penninsula, was long held as common land by the town and city of Salem, isolated from the primary settlement areas to the south. It was historically a common pasture area as well as a peripheral site well-suited to the culturally fringe activities that included small pox quarenteened sites for the pesthouse and later the almshouse and the City Hospital. Though these activities did not survive into the 20th century, new fringe activities were added, including a power plant and a sewage treatment plant. Its seaside location proved important in the 19th century, with tenting in the 1850s and Juniper Point Cottages constructed after 1870. The majority of the cottages date to the turn of the century and the development of the Salem Willows recreation park. During the post World War Two period, the former location of the City Farm was subdivided into 155 lots for residential development. Many of these were sold to returning veterans, 72 by 1955, and an additional 25 were purchased by New England Power for their high tension wire right of way. Salem Neck's location between Salem and Beverly harbors made it important for coastal defence. As early as 1690 and again in 1742 breastworks were constructed "at the Heights of the Neck." Historical sources are not in agreement on a more specific site for these defences. Both William Lewis Welch (1896) and James Duncan Phillips (1937) offer the convincing interpretation that these were constructed at Juniper Point on the eastern end of the Neck, on its south side. During the second quarter of the 19th century evidence of earthworks and embrassures were observable here and at the northern end at Hospital Point; both of these were removed during the subsequent Salem Willows Park improvements (Welch 1896) . Welch and Phillips rely on the description of Salem's defences reported to the Provincial Congress, 19 June 1776: "There are t-wo forts erected on the Point of land in Salem harbor No. 1 and No. 2 or old fort.. .these forts are now overlooked by another fort which is now erecting on an eminence not far distant-- This fort we must own does credit to the gentm, of the Town of Salem and with the addition of some heavy pieces of ordinance store would enable then to make no dispicable figure in the Common defence." They suggest that No. 1 refers to the earlier battery at Juniper Point - 6 - and No. 2 to the fort on Winter Island known successively as Fort Ann, William, and currently, Pickering. The new fort was named Fort Lee. While many of the other coastal defences frau this period were rebuilt or allowed to decay, evidence suggests that Fort Lee was regularly repaired but never significantly altered. During the first phase of United States fort construction, the so-called First System of 1794-1801, rebuilding took place at Fort Pickering, as well as at Marblehead's Fort Sewell and Eastern Point in Gloucester, but not at Fort Lee. Etienne Bechet, Sieur de Rochefontaine designed these forts as part of the national system that was to have included twenty-one harbors along the coast. The two forts at Salem Harbor, Pickering and Sewell, mark the importance of this harbor to the national defence. During the second phase of the First System these forts received appropriations as well. During the Second System appropriations these same forts received significant funds (Thompson 1985). During each of these national efforts, it appears that Fort Lee remained untouched. The earliest visual image of the Fort dates to an 1810 map of Salem, in which it is illustrated as a four pointed star. Finally during the War of 1812 the Canmonwealth of Massachusetts supplemented federal efforts with work at Fort Lee and at Fort Phillips on Plum Island, to the north .in Newbury. Of these early national period forts, only Fort Sewell is recognized as retaining a period configuration, confirming the importance of Fort Lee and highlighting its largely unrecognized significance. The earliest detailed drawing of the Fort dates to 1820 when the U. S. Army's Engineering Department conducted a survey of sorts of the existing fortifications as they planned for the overall defence of the coast. The plan had been to rely heavily on the combination of Pickering on Winter Island and Naugus Head on Marblehead, but in new lovcations and expanded size; it was never executed during the following peaceful decades. Though Fort Lee was apparently not slated for reconstruction at this time, the drawing is believed to reflect the configuration of the Fort after its repair by the Commonwealth in preparation for war with Britain. This plan, drawn by Lieut. John R. Vinton, shows a very regular four pointed fort, oriented to the cardinal directions, and _ 77 entered from the west. Each arm or salient of the star is formed as a blunted triangle, its edges all rounded. Although no sections are available, the elevation of the parapets above the parade is clearly delineated, and the drop off of the rocky slopes surrounding the fort are indicated as well. Within the parade, three structures are indicated: a long gable roofed building measuring about fifteen by forty feet, probably a barracks; a smaller gable-roofed building measuring fifteen by twenty feet, probably a magazine, and the indication of a small subterranean magazine next to it. The barracks are sited along the angled wall north of the entry in the landward salient, the magazines along the angled wall south of it, banked partially into the parapet. The next drawing of the structure dates to 1863, when plans for "alterations in order to accanodate four heavy guns," appear on a map labelled "Fort Lee, Salam Mass., Sketch, Showing Proposed Alterations..." During the Civil liar the federal expenditures and building in Essex County was extensive, including repairs to the federral forts at Salem, Marblehead, and Gloucester, to Massachusetts militia forts including Fort Lee, Naugus Head in Marblehead, in addition to the construction of Forts Conant (location?) , Glover (Marblehead), and Nichols (Salisbury Point on Plum Island) and a battery at Eastern Point (Gloucester) . This plan of Fort Lee, executed in preparation for the work, indicates the configuration of both the existing structure and the planned alterations. Here the existing conditions lines suggest a less regular profile, but it is not clear whether these differences are the result of more accurate measurement or evidence of over forty years of errosion. The western salient still includes the entrance, and is symmetrical in form; the north and south salients are also symmentrial, but considerably smaller in size than those to the east and west. The eastern salient presents the greatest differences, with five rather than three outward faces to the salient, and the northern wall longer than its opposite number to the south. The alterations proposed at this time suggest an effort to correct these irregularities. The greatest change would cane with the creation of a broad nearly square salient to the east, smaller half-round salients - 8 - to the north and the south, and a longer blunted triangle at the west salient. A larger magazine would be constrcuted along the long south west wall of the fort's parade, its north and south guns would be mounted on circular while the two east facing guns were to receive three point mountings before embrassures. The eight sided property bounds are also indicated on the sketch, as are several of the rock outcrops and quarries about 175' north west from the north salient and about 325' south west frau the entry. In 1863 Joseph Felt observed "the great stir, now daily manifested in a suburb of our city, is applied to the Forts Lee and Pickering." He continued: "With regard to the genius, exhibited in the plan. and execution of these two fortifications, Col. Alexander recently remarked to some of our city authorities, that there are none in all our Country, which exceed those of our forts, Lee and Pickering. While Pickering particularly camiands the Marblehead side of our harbor, it assists in the defense of the whole Port, and Lee takes the lead in affording these assistances and co;mands the poerations of Pickering and Juniper. The work to be done on these two forts, is principally earthworks. They are expected to be done not before Winter. The area of the works at Pickering are expected to be three times larger than they are at present. The proportion of works at Lee, are not espected to be as large, as those intended for Pickering. The United States governemnt hold themselves responsible for the expenses of the enterprise. . ..May the work progress with all due diligence and success (Felt 1863) . The higher labor costs of the Salem area, where laborers demanded $1.50 rather than $1.25 per day, lead the city of Salem to appropriate $5000. for the work. William Schouler, historian of Massachusetts in the Civil War, also mentions work at Fort lee, which was finished in October of that year, and where four eight-inch Columbiads would be mounted (1868: 494) . By August of 1864 the improvements to Fort Lee had been completed, measured and drawn by Jonathan D. Estabrook, the most detailed of the engineers drawings, and the last of those completed before the Fort was apparently taken out of service. The north side of the Fort was constructed as planned: a long blunt salient at the west, a smaller rounded salient at the north, and a large nearly square salient facing the east. Along the south side, however, 'the angle of the west salient is more obtuse, and not symmetrical with its northern side, and forming - 9 - a larger triangle of the south salient, not symmentrical with its opposite northern salient. This alteration is at least partially explained by the location of the magazines along this parapet, including the small "old magazine," measuring approximately six by twelve feet, and the larger new magazine, sited at a slightly higher elevation and measuring approximately sixteen by forty feet. The older magazine may be brick, the new one apparently frame with double walls, and both are reinforned with a surround of stone and a covering of earth. All four guns were constructed to sit on circular , a variation from the plan. Sections show the parade to be at an elevation of about sixty-eight feet above low water, while the guns are set on a platform at about seventy-two feet above low water, behind parapets with the inward high point at about seventy-six feet. The magazines were measured at the highest elevation at about eighty-six feet. Outside the walls of the Fort the plans show two small buildings on the north side of the path entering the fort. Nearest the entry a guard house appears to have a gable roof and measures approximately eighteen feet square. The three-roan barracks to the west measures approximately eighteen by forty-two feet. In 1869, reporting on a survey of armaments at the fortificatuons, the Army noted four eight-inch columbiands, all mounted at three points, those on the east salient mounted on iron carriages, those on the north and south on wood. Period photographs confirm that this work was completed as drawn, with the dark smooth walls of the ramparts visible above the surrounding rubble and earth, the top of the magazing rising above then, guns in firing position, and the guard house, with its gable-front, side entry and single window facade visible outside the entry. This configuration, with allowance for some deterioration and erosion over the intervening nearly 130 years, can still be traced in more recent aerial views and in a walk over of the site. No discussion of local activities during the later Spanish- American, First, or Second World Wars mentions Fort Lee. Though its ownership was sanewhat obscure, its location with .City owned land secured it frau private development and it became a natural open area extension of the emerging recreational area to the northeast at the Willows. The extent of work on the Fort during this period is difficult to ducimient with available materials, - 10 - but it appears that the Fort served as an easily accessible observation area, with roadways and paths on the periphery. The area remained cleared, probably until World War TW when scrub and trees began to accumulate. The aerial view of the Fort Lee area of Salon Neck taken in 1965 best demonstrates the integrity of this earthwork fort. Located in the upper left or north west quadrant of the photo, the outline of the fort is clearly visible. During the Bicentennial in 1976, when the Fort was recognized as a significant historic site, the surrounding area was designated as a Natural Preserve. Scrie clearing was accomplished, and steps up the embankments made access easier, while signage informed visitors of the site's importance; the steps remain but not the plaques. The undisturbed nature of this site and the recent experience of archaeological testing for resources suggests that this large area of open land. The entire Salem Neck and Winter Island area has been shown to yeild sites dating as early as the N,iddle Archaic period 6000 to 8000 years ago. Site types expected include both habitation and task-activity types, and in particular, shell middens. Sites such as these may yeild infcmation about prehistoric use of coastal zones during this long period, allowing for development of theories about change through time. The seasonal versus more permanent occupation of ecological zones has been of particular interest to scholars of New england prehistory in recent years. Whether the sites were permanent or temporary, the seasonal use of particular site types as well as the various maritme resources exploited at then is of scholarly interest. The archaeological potential extends into the historic period, particularly during the period of significance from 1776 to 1869. A field examination of the site, in ocmbination with documentary evidence strongly suggests that evidence remains of the buildings that formerly stood within the Fort, covered later with earth and fallen in on themselves, and possibly on the Fort's exterior as well, where construction and foundation evidence may survive. In both instances these building sites are likely to be surrounded by occupational depositions, revealing of the wily activities at the Fort. - 11 - Fort Lee Bibliography Books and Articles Felt, Joseph B., "Historical Sketch of the Forts on Saler Neck." Essex Institute Historical Collections 5: 258-259 (1863). Frye, Col. James A. The First Regimant Massachusetts Heavy Artillery U. S. Volounteers in the Spanish-American War of 1898. Boston: The Colonial Company, 1899. Phillips, James Duncan. Salem in the Eighteenth century. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Canpany, 1937. Schouler, William. Massachusetts in the Civil War. Boston: E. P: Dutton & Co. , 1868. Streeter, G. L. "The Story of Winter Island and Sala, Neck." Essex Institute Historical Collections 33: 105-128 (1898). Thompson, Kenneth, Jr. , "Federal Fort Construction in Essex County, 1794-1809." Essex Institute Historical Collections 121: 245-56 (1985) . Welch, William Lewis, "Salem Neck and Winter Island." Essex Institute Historical Collections 33: 81-104 (1898) . Maps and Altases Hopkins, Atlas of 1874. U. S. Geodedic and Coastal Survey, Naps of Salem Harbor, 1859, 1875, 1897. U.S. Army Records at the National Archives, Record Group 77, Fortifications File, Drawer 18, Sheet 12 (1820-22) , Sheet 21 (#9, 1863) , Sheet 29 (1864) , and Drawer 259, Sheet 10 (1869) . Miscellaneous Essex Institute Photographs Collection. City of Salem Annual Reports, multiple years. The author is indebted to William Stockinger for sharing his extensive knowledge of forts, including information of Salem area forts fro, the National Archives, and for informative and entertaining field visits. See also nomination to the Nation Register for Sale, Willows, prepared by Kim Withers Brengle, 1992. - 12 - DRAFT 1. Name of property Fort Lee no other names 2. Location Off Fort Avenue Salem Masachusetts 025 Essex 009 zip code 01970 3. Classification Public Local Ownership Category: Structure, one contributing , 9. 5. 6. Function or Use Historic Function: Fort Current Function: City Park 7. Description Architectural Classification: Other: Earthwork Fort Materials: foundation: earth walls: N/A roof: N/A other: N/A 8. Statement of Significance A, C, and C at the State Level Criteria Exception: none Areas of Significance: Military Period of Significance: 1776- 9. Bibliography Short Title Format Felt, "Historical Sketches of the Forts on Salem Neck," EIHC, 1863. Phillips, Salem in the 18th Century, 1.937. Schouler, A History of Massachusetts in the Civil Piar, 1868. Stockinger, William, field visit and personal. communication. Streeter, "The Story of [Minter Islanc and Salem Teck," EIHC, 1998. Thompson, "Federal Fort Construction in Essex County," EIHC, 1985. Welch, "Salem geek and Ddinter Island, FIHC, 1898. U.S. Geodetic € Coastal Survey, Maps of Salem Harbor, 1859, 1875, 1897. 10. Gecaraphic Data Acreage: 16.5 acres UTMs: 19.346000.470300 Boundary Description: The boundaries of Fort T.ze are indicated on the attached Assessors M^,aps 42 and 44, lot 20. Boundary Justification: The parcel described above is that historically associated with Fort Lee, and correspond to the public park established by the �Gq around the fort. Cita 11. Prepared by Claire W. Dempsey Two views attached; historic photo and aerial view to follow.