Coastal walks in Middletown Township, New Jersey

The Fort Hancock flagpole is located at 25 Hudson Road in Middletown Township, New Jersey, United States. This historic institution is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and was originally a coastal defense fort that protected New York Harbor from 1895 until its closure in 1974. The fort used massive, reinforced concrete and rebar gun batteries for defense, rather than traditional masonry construction. The Endicott System of Coastal Defenses, which included concrete batteries, was implemented after the Civil War to replace outdated forts. Sixteen batteries were built on the Sandy Hook peninsula, with Fort Hancock being created to house the soldiers who operated them. Visitors can explore Battery Potter and the Mortar Battery on Ranger-guided tours during the summer, while a self-guided Fort Hancock Walking Tour allows for viewing over one hundred buildings on the property. The Nike Missile Control and Launch Sites are also a must-see, with tours available on select weekends. Some of the buildings at Fort Hancock are now occupied by private residents and organizations, with ongoing efforts to lease and renovate the remaining structures. The National Park Service is seeking investors to restore the historical buildings to their original specifications, with the opportunity for up to a 60-year lease in exchange for renovation costs. Various uses for the buildings include residences, educational and non-profit purposes, and commercial ventures such as bed and breakfasts, office space, and restaurants. For more information, visit the institution's website.