for some 29 locations on the US coast. Coast Artillery fortifications built between 1885 and 1905 are often referred to as Endicott Period fortifications.

The first board consisted of the following officers and civilians:
* William C. Endicott, Secretary of War, president of the Board
* Brigadier-General Stephen V. Benet, Chief of Ordnance
* Brigadier-General John Newton, Chief of Engineers
* Lieutenant-Colonel Henry L. Abbot, Corps of Engineers
* Captain Charles S. Smith, Ordnance Department
* Commander