Fort Stevens was one of three Harbor Defense Systems and was located at the mouth of the Columbia River. The fort was built in case the British decided to join the Confederate Army during the Civil War. It was made largely of earth and timber and was surrounded by an English type moat to protect it from a possible land attack. The fort was active for 84 years of service starting with the Civil War and closing after WW 11. The Fort has the one distinction of being the only military facility ever struck by enemy fire. A submarine in 1942 managed to fire a number of shells into the fort. No lives were lost and the sumbarine was not found. It was one of two attacks by the Japanese in 1942 - the other being close to Brookings. You'll find a nice history of the area, available use of lands, and other information of historic importance. Today the Fort has become a park and is maintainted by the State of Oregon.