Fort Miles Historic Area: A WWII Coastal Defense Fortress

Nestled among the dunes of Cape Henlopen State Park, where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, lies the Fort Miles Historic Area. This area was a crucial part of the nation's coastal defense during World War II. From the early 1940s through the early 1970s, Fort Miles stood as a sentinel against potential German attacks on vital U.S. infrastructure and ports, including Philadelphia and Wilmington. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this once-bustling military base. The central features include Battery 519, a 15,000-square-foot fortified underground bunker, six barracks buildings, a fire control tower offering panoramic views, an orientation building, and the Fort Miles Artillery Park. Museum exhibits and artifacts within Battery 519 bring to life Delaware's wartime stories, showcasing the technology used to defend the homeland. Guided tours led by uniformed interpreters provide insights into the fort's history and significance. Visitors can tour Battery 519 to discover the threats Fort Miles faced and how they planned to defend the United States. Climb a concrete spotting tower for scenic vistas of the seascape and surrounding areas. Explore the artillery park and learn about the different artillery pieces that protected the entrance to the Delaware Bay. Fort Miles also played a role in the Cold War, shifting to highly classified missions, including developing new weapons technology and listening for Soviet submarines. The Fort Miles Museum connects visitors to this history through guided tours, self-guided exhibits, and special events.