In 1887, the army decides the occupation of the solid mass of the forest of Villey-Saint-Etienne. This extension of the defensive perimeter makes it possible to push back well ahead the defense of the Place. At the end of a peak in skirt of forest, one builds a small work with triangular profile for the infantry. A small special concrete quartering occupies the center. In 1892, the work receives one of the first turrets with eclipse of small gauge, the turret of 57 Nordenfeld. This turret makes it possible to draw frontally on a vast angular zone and locks the sector. The work is supported by artillery batteries installed behind. In 1906, one associates an observatory allowing to lead in a sourer way the shooting of the turret. The turret is modified and receives two guns of 75.

Garrison and armament in 1914

• 1/4 company of infantry (167e regiment of infantry),

• 38 artillerists (6th artillery regiment to foot).