Fort Mott State Park

The parados (Spanish for rear door) is the earthen hill adjacent to the gun battery. It serve as a shield against gunfire from the rear. Construction of the moat and parados at Fort Mott began in 1897 and took over two years to complete. The earth used to build the parados came from digging the moat; 44,500 cubic yards of earth, over 200,000 tons, was moved with grapples, wheelbarrows, and shovels. The work was grueling. Each man was expected to move nearly five tons of earth daily for a wage of $1.25. Once completed, the parados was 20 feet wide at the top and extended the entire 750-foot length of the main fortification wall.
(Inscription under the image at the top left) The moat was constructed by hand using shovels and wheelbarrows. Mules were used to help move soil and shape the parados.
(Inscription under the image at the top right) The parados originally reflected the "mirror image" of the moat. This feature provided a substantial obstacle to help thwart the advance of an enemy force attempting to capture the main gate line, as well as protect the gun crews from enemy artillery fire.

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Show me all markers in:  Pennsville Township, NJ  |  Salem County  |  08070  |  New Jersey  |  United States of America

Observation Towers
Battery Harker
Battery Gregg
Welcome (to Fort Mott)
The Wharf
Two Batteries in one
The Latrines
Pea Patch Island
Battery Arnold
Generator Room

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