Captain John Smith's Adventures on the James
— www.johnsmithtrail.org —
Fort Boykin was named after Francis Marshall Boykin who was a Virginia state senator, general in the state militia and owner of the property on which the fort was built. The topography at Fort Boykin provided the best possible location for monitoring river traffic to Richmond. Laid out by Col. Andrew Talcott of the Confederate Engineers, Fort Boykin fronts the James River on the highest point of land in the area. In addition, shallow areas in the river here bring the navigable channel close to the shoreline, which would have forced all vessels traveling the river within firing range. Although built as a river defense, Fort Boykin was also designed to withstand assault from land. The ground on the back and sides of the fort slopes naturally away, a condition that afforded the Confederates a commanding view in all directions.
(right sidebar)Captain John Smith's TrailJohn Smith knew the James River by its Algonquian name: Powhatan, the same as the region's paramount chief. Smith traveled the river many times between 1607 and 1609, trading with Virginia Indians to ensure survival at Jamestown. What he saw of Virginia's verdant woodlands and pristine waters inspired him to explore the greater Chesapeake Bay, chronicling its natural wonders.
Trail Markers1.
Gun Salient - This gun salient protected the fort from attack over land. The construction is typical of the Civil War period. It is believed that an Army Columbarium was used at this position.
2a.
Black Walnut - It is believed to be the second largest Black Walnut in the state. This tree dominates the parade ground. The approximate age of the tree is 200 years plus.
2b.
Parade Ground - The parade ground was used to assemble troops and perform all ceremonial activities.
3.
Magazine A - Built in 1861-1862, this magazine was destroyed by a Union landing party. Fragments of brick are still found throughout Fort Boykin.
4.
Well - The date of this well is unknown. It is believed to have been built before 1860. Many artifacts, which were thrown in by Confederate troops before they abandoned the fort, were excavated from the well.
5.
James River - Passage to Richmond by water is possible by the James River. Protection of Richmond was the Confederates' primary reason for locating here.
6.
Magazine B - The bricks that remain are all that is left of this magazine. It was also destroyed by the Union landing party. Take note how the bricks were pushed back by the explosion.
7.
Beach Access8.
Chimney Base - The brick fireplace was used to prepare food and as a place to gather. Around this area were living quarters and the headquarters for Confederate troops.
9.
Flag Mound - Each morning and evening, the Confederate flag was raised and lowered at this mound.
10.
Gun Salient11.
Barn Area12.
Greer Garden - This garden was designed by Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Greer, who lived at the fort from 1908-1931.
(bottom sidebar)Walnut Tree. Eagles fishing offshore can sometimes be seen roosting on the massive branches of the old trees that grace the property at Fort Boykin. This black walnut is reputed to be the second largest specimen in the state.
Cannon. A replica of a Confederate canon rests silently above the Burwell Bay. The commanding bluff overlooking the river was the highest promontory in the area and provided a strategic view in all directions.
Picnicking. A blooming camellia welcomes wintertime visitors to the picnic area near the bluff. A shelter provides shade for guests in the summer as they look out over the bay where Union ironclad vessels pounded Confederate defenses in May of 1862.
Beach. Visitors stroll along the beach for a better view of the land generally known as Day's Neck. The shoreline has retreated about 260 feet since 1873. This area once formed part of a plantation known as
The Rocks.
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