Its stone construction provides an excellent example of an un-modified Séré de Rivières position.

[2] The fort lost strategic importance as it became clear that its views were obstructed by the Bois de Souche.

A number of smaller positions were built in the Bois de Souche in lieu of improving the main fort.

[3][4] Between 1900 and 1906 infantry shelters of a spiral queue de cochon or "pig's tail design were installed around the fort.

During World War II the Germans used Bois l'Abbé to house occupying forces and continued to use it for ammunition storage.