View of Part of the Ruins of Norfolk

Description

Watercolor on paper drawing of "View of Part of the Ruins of Norfolk", ca. 1796-1798, from the Latrobe Sketchbooks, by Benjamin Henry Latrobe. This drawing features partial brick wall and chimney ruins of Fort Norfolk in the foreground, numerous sailing ships on the Elizabeth River, and the city of Portsmouth in the distance. The original Fort Norfolk was originally constructed with earthen walls and wooden or brick supports. It was rebuilt before the War of 1812 and garrisoned to protect Norfolk and the river from the British. The fort never saw action during the conflict.