Seacoast Fortifications of the United States: an Introductory History by Emanuel Raymond Lewis

Seacoast Fortifications of the United States: an Introductory History by Emanuel Raymond Lewis is a history of harbor defenses. Most of these were constructed by the Army. The history of the fortifications from just after the war of independence through World War II is laid out. The various changes in armament, design and site selection is described. The bureaucratic process behind the building and financing of the various programs is also discussed. On just about every page there's a picture. A superb work well worthy of its status as a classic in the field. The book contains footnotes, a bibliography and list of fortified locations in the US. Lewis manages to avoid the highly technical jargon which can make works on fortifications difficult to understand.

Highly recommended!

Is available through Abebooks.