Fort Norfolk History - 1849 Planning

Joseph Smith Chief of Bureau of Yards & Docks wrote Comm. John D. Sloat on September 18, 1849; “ Orders have been given by the War Department to deliver possession of Fort Norfolk to any officer of the Navy authorized to receive it, and the Secretary of the Navy has directed, that you receive and take possession of the premises accordingly, on behalf of the Navy Department, and that you have prepared and forwarded to this Bureau, estimate for the erection of a magazine building, of substantial dimensions for the station, and also for repairing the gates, closing up the front of the officers quarters, laying a wooden rail track to the water, and for constructing a pier for boats to land and receive powder &c., add also for a small house for the keeper, to be erected on the public grounds.

The enclosed trace plan shows the space on the parade ground marked M which may be occupied, but beyond it we cannot go in the construction of a Magazine.

It has been thought that the quarters in the Fort would answer for the Keeper, who should be a Gunner, but I think these quarters being so near the Magazine when passing powder, ought not to be occupied by a family. The improvements you may estimate for, must be sanctioned by the War Department before they can be made, they will accordingly be submitted for that purpose.”

Joseph Smith wrote Comm. J. D. Sloat on September 22, 1849; I “send herewith for your examination, a plan of the Magazine at Chelsea, which cost about fourteen thousand dollars. This plan may serve as a guide and will enable you to suggest such improvements as you may think proper. Please return it when you have done with it.”

In October 1849, Commodore Sloat submitted plans for the magazine to the Bureau of Yards and Docks.  Sloat proposed a structure measuring 136 x 55 ft., the same as the dimensions of the building when it was finally completed. However, the actual building would be far more substantial than Sloat envisioned.  Apparently, there were no funds in that year's budget to begin the construction.  One year later, Sloat finally received a response from Commodore Smith informing him that another building plan would be used.

Joseph Smith wrote Comm. J. D. Sloat on October 10, 1849; “The Secretary of the Navy directs, that all further operations under the order for establishing a Powder Magazine at Fort Norfolk, be suspended; you will be pleased to govern yourself accordingly.”

Joseph Smith wrote Comm. J. D. Sloat on October 23, 1849; “Be pleased to send to this Bureau a traced plan of the dwelling proposed for the Keeper of the Magazine, and Estimate for which was submitted with your Annual Report, without delay.”

John D Sloat replied “The traced floor plan of the dwelling propose for the keeper of the magazine will be transmitted in a few days. I understand from good authority that the establishment of a Magazine at Fort Norfolk is apposed only by a few interested individuals, the City Authorities, also prominent citizens do not object.”

John D Sloat wrote Comm Joseph Smith, on November 14, 1849; “I forward herewith a traced plan of the building I propose for the Keeper of the Magazine. This house is designed for a Commander as an officer of inferior rank should not in my judgment be assigned to that duty. If however it should be determined to place a guard there, a house for less expense will answer and a plan of which will be forwarded it in time. I have thought it best however to submit the one beneath enclosed for you consideration, for the reason stated above.”

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