Fort Lesseps, Colon
Fort Lesseps was a small U.S. Army Coast Artillery Corps fort located at the northern tip of Col贸n, named after the French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps, who oversaw the construction of the Suez Canal. Built to safeguard the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal, the fort was established in 1913 and remained in operation until 1955. The fort's primary defense structure was Battery Morgan, which housed two six-inch guns strategically positioned across from the Hotel Washington. This small yet significant military installation played an important role in protecting the Canal and surrounding areas during its active years.
The fort's layout was relatively simple, consisting of a spur from the nearby railyards leading to its dock, where several key structures were located. The administration building and barracks were situated near the dock, with five officers' houses and a theater located a short distance away. Between the gun batteries and the hotel, a sea-level swimming pool added an element of leisure to the otherwise utilitarian military complex. The fort was not just a place for defense but also a living space for the officers and soldiers stationed there.
Fort Lesseps served as a strategic military post during a time when Panama's security was of great importance, especially in relation to the Panama Canal, which was a vital global trade route. Its relatively modest size belied its strategic value, as it was an integral part of the U.S. military presence in the region. Over the years, the fort's functions evolved, and by 1955, it was no longer needed and was abandoned.
Today, the site of Fort Lesseps has taken on new purposes, with the land now used for other developments. The historical significance of the fort, however, remains as part of Panama's military and colonial past, especially in relation to the U.S. presence during the early 20th century.
The fort's layout was relatively simple, consisting of a spur from the nearby railyards leading to its dock, where several key structures were located. The administration building and barracks were situated near the dock, with five officers' houses and a theater located a short distance away. Between the gun batteries and the hotel, a sea-level swimming pool added an element of leisure to the otherwise utilitarian military complex. The fort was not just a place for defense but also a living space for the officers and soldiers stationed there.
Fort Lesseps served as a strategic military post during a time when Panama's security was of great importance, especially in relation to the Panama Canal, which was a vital global trade route. Its relatively modest size belied its strategic value, as it was an integral part of the U.S. military presence in the region. Over the years, the fort's functions evolved, and by 1955, it was no longer needed and was abandoned.
Today, the site of Fort Lesseps has taken on new purposes, with the land now used for other developments. The historical significance of the fort, however, remains as part of Panama's military and colonial past, especially in relation to the U.S. presence during the early 20th century.
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Fort Lesseps on Map
Sight Name: Fort Lesseps
Sight Location: Colon, Panama (See walking tours in Colon)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Colon, Panama (See walking tours in Colon)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Colon, Panama
Create Your Own Walk in Colon
Creating your own self-guided walk in Colon is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Colon Introduction Walking Tour
Col贸n is one of the most fascinating places to explore in Panama鈥攁 city where history, culture, and nature intertwine in unexpected ways. Founded in 1850, it quickly became the Atlantic gateway for gold rush travelers headed to California. Later renamed to honor Columbus, the city grew on the swampy ground of Manzanillo Island, battling disease and harsh conditions from the start.
Its... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Its... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles