Nestled on Goat Island in Puget Sound, Fort Whitman is one of the lesser-known historical gems of Skagit County, Washington. A former military outpost, this Endicott Board fortification played a significant role in protecting Puget Sound during World War II—but its full story remains shrouded in mystery.

The Forgotten History of Fort Whitman: From Defense to Desertion

Constructed as part of the Harbor Defenses of Puget Sound, Fort Whitman was strategically positioned just off the coast of La Conner, Washington. Its primary mission was to guard the confined back passage east of Fidalgo Island, known as Skagit Bay. Fort Whitman featured a 4-gun, 6-inch disappearing cannon battery, known as Battery Harrison, along with mine control structures designed to safeguard this vital waterway.

Though the fort’s defensive structures were built for wartime protection, much of its infrastructure—including barracks and support buildings—was temporary. Only a caretaker’s quarters remained on the island after the fort’s military function ceased. The fort’s main armament shifted as WWII progressed. By the end of the war, the six-inch disappearing guns were deemed obsolete, replaced with 37mm Anti-Motor Torpedo Boat (AMTB) guns, signaling a shift in defense priorities.

War Relic Left in the Shadows

Despite its strategic significance during its operational years, Fort Whitman spent most of its existence in caretaker status, with little activity or attention until the present day. Except for a brief period during wartime, the fort was left to fade into obscurity. Today, few people know the stories hidden on Goat Island, though the remnants of its military presence remain—standing as silent sentinels to an era long past.

Discover the Secrets of Fort Whitman in Skagit County

For those intrigued by military history and the forgotten outposts of Washington state, Fort Whitman offers an opportunity to explore a lesser-known chapter of the Harbor Defenses of Puget Sound. Its mysterious past, coupled with the beautiful, rugged landscape of Skagit County, makes it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Whether you’re interested in Puget Sound’s defense systems, or you simply want to uncover the hidden stories of Skagit County’s coastline, Fort Whitman is a unique piece of Washington state’s military history that deserves more attention.

Listen to an audio news story on the Fort from Kiro Radio Seattle

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