During the late 1890's and early 1900's, new gun batteries were constructed at Fort Pickens. These batteries were part of a program initiated by the Endicott Board, a group headed by a mid-1880's Secretary of War, William Endicott. Instead of many guns located in a small area, the image most people have of a fort, the Endicott batteries are spread out over a wide area. This system used dispersement and concealment for protection from naval gunfire, which was more accurate and powerful than in the past. The use of the modern, powerful weapons eliminated the need for the concentration of guns that was common in the Third System fortifications.
Battery Pensacola mounted a pair of 12-inch disappearing rifles, located within the perimeter of Fort Pickens. Magazines and casements of Fort Pickens were modified to serve as reserve ammunition storage for this battery. Like most Endicott period structures, this battery is only protected from fire from the gulf.
This view shows Battery Pensacola from the western bastion. Note how the wall and casemates of Fort Pickens provides additional protection for the front of the battery.
This is one of the few Endicott period weapons still in place in its battery. This six-inch rifle of Battery Cooper is in the loading position, with the parapet protecting it from fire from the gulf. An extremely large counterweight raised the weapon above the parapet to fire. Upon firing, the recoil lowered the gun back below the parapet for reloading.Continue
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