Fort DeRussy Military Reservation, Honolulu

Fort DeRussy, located in Honolulu's Waikiki area, is a U.S. military base under the Army's control. It's largely accessible to the public, featuring park-like spaces. Originally, this land was owned by Chun Afong, a wealthy Chinese businessman. He used it for hosting events and welcoming notable guests such as royalty, diplomats, and military officials. In 1904, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers bought it for $28,000, building Batteries Randolph and Dudley.

Fort DeRussy in Honolulu is one of the five Forts DeRussy across the U.S., with others in Louisiana, Kentucky, and Washington, D.C. These were constructed during the Civil War. Named after General René Edward De Russy, a notable military engineer and former West Point Superintendent, the fort commemorates his contributions. René and his brother Louis, both West Point graduates, came to the U.S. as children from Saint-Domingue (now Haiti). They both served in the Civil War, with René siding with the Union and Louis with the Confederate Army.

Fort DeRussy still houses several active facilities, such as the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies, the Fort DeRussy Chapel, a Welfare and Recreation facility, and the Hale Koa Hotel. Although this military installation holds significant appeal for those interested in leisure activities and history, it is currently not in active use. Following World War II, the fort was deemed surplus property. Notably, the Army Museum was established on this site in 1976. Additionally, Battery Dudley saw the installation of two 6-inch guns, which were named in honor of General Edgar S. Dudley, who passed away in 1911. The Artillery District of Honolulu earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places on June 5th, 1984.