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Monroe (FORT the most extensive work)

FORT, the most extensive work of a defensive character in the United States, formerly known as Fortress Monroe. It is situated at the end of the peninsula of Old Point Comfort, Va., between the York and the James rivers.

The work was begun in 1817 (the year of the election of President Monroe for whom it was named). At the outbreak of the Civil War, it covered an area of 65 acres; the garrison consisted of 300 men, and the ordinance comprised 400 great guns. It was known that the Confederates had designs upon the fort, and nel 1903, lieutenant-general 1915, general Gen. B. F. Butler, commander of the 1917. Served with the Northwestern Department of Viriginia, made it his Frontier Force, India, 1879-1880 (medal Department headquarters and reinforced the garrison. and 2 clasps); South Africa, 1899-1900 The Nationals continued in possession till (Queen's medal); commanded 13th In- the close of the war. Since then an imfantry Brigade, Dublin, 1907-1912. Second Division, Aldershot, 1914. Commanded the 3d British Army in France in 1915. Appointed to Chief Command at the Dardanelles, Oct. 15 to January, 1916. It was General Monro who decided that the Allied Expeditionary Force should abandon the enterprise and evacuate the straits, which began in December and was carried out successfully without loss of life. On the resignation of Marshal French, General Monro succeeded Sir Douglas Haig to the command of the 1st British Army in France in February, 1916.