[2][3] At the war's outset in 1861, it became evident that control of the western regions of James Island and the Stono River was to be an important element in the defense of the city.

Confederate military authorities of the time believed that Union occupation of James Island would leave Charleston subject to attack from the southeast.

The fort's position was to deny Federal gun boat attack from the Stono River which ran along the western shores of James Island.

In addition, the fort had complete control of the critical Wappoo Creek that meandered eastward into the Ashley River which borders Charleston to the west.

The fort has remained essentially intact since its completion in 1863 and is presently covered with a substantial growth of live oak and other indigenous trees.