Fort Devens: From Boys to Men

Fort Devens was a United States Army installation located in north central Massachusetts, approximately 30 miles (48 km) northwest of Boston. It was established in 1917 as one of sixteen cantonments built rapidly after the United States entered World War I.

Fort Devens, From Boys to Men

by Andrew Tabak

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4456 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	235 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The cantonment was named after General Charles Devens, a Civil War hero who had served as the first commander of the Massachusetts Volunteer Militia. The installation was initially used to train soldiers for deployment to Europe, but it also served as a hospital and a prisoner of war camp during the war.

After the war, Fort Devens was used as a training ground for the Massachusetts National Guard. In 1940, it was reactivated as an active Army post, and it played a major role in the training of soldiers for World War II.

During World War II, Fort Devens was the largest military installation in New England. It housed over 100,000 soldiers at its peak, and it was the site of the first induction center for the United States Army Air Forces.

After World War II, Fort Devens continued to be used as a training ground for the Massachusetts National Guard and the United States Army Reserve. It was also used as a hospital and a prisoner of war camp during the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

In 1996, Fort Devens was closed as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. The installation was transferred to the state of Massachusetts, which has since redeveloped it as a mixed-use development.

The Impact of Fort Devens

Fort Devens had a significant impact on the surrounding community. It provided jobs for thousands of people, and it helped to boost the local economy. The installation also played a role in the development of the region's infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals.

In addition to its economic impact, Fort Devens also had a social and cultural impact on the community. The installation was a gathering place for people from all walks of life, and it helped to create a sense of community.

Fort Devens was also a place where many young men came of age. The installation provided them with the opportunity to learn new skills, develop their leadership abilities, and become responsible citizens.

Fort Devens Today

Today, Fort Devens is a thriving mixed-use development. The former military base is now home to a variety of businesses, including offices, retail stores, and restaurants.

The development also includes a number of residential areas, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. Fort Devens is also home to a number of recreational facilities, including a golf course, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.

The redevelopment of Fort Devens has been a success story. The installation has been transformed from a military base into a vibrant community. Fort Devens is now a place where people can live, work, and play.

Image Gallery

Fort Devens in the early 1900s

Soldiers training at Fort Devens during World War II

Fort Devens today

Fort Devens, From Boys to Men

by Andrew Tabak

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4456 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	235 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE