Fort Tyler, Coastal Plain Travel Guide

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Explore the site of the last Confederate fort to fall during the Civil War in West Point, Georgia.

Fort Tyler, located in West Point, Georgia, was the last Confederate fort to fall to Union troops during the Civil War. Built in 1863, this earthen fort played a crucial role in defending the Chattahoochee River bridges and the town's vital railway junction. Today, visitors can explore the reconstructed fort, walk the marked trails, and learn about the history of this significant site.

A brief summary to Fort Tyler

1105 6th Ave, West Point, Georgia, 31833, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Tyler.

Wear comfortable shoes for the short hike up the hill to the fort.
Visit during the annual commemoration of the Battle of West Point for living history demonstrations.
Take time to read the interpretive signs along the trail to learn about the fort's history.

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Explore Fort Tyler on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fort Tyler, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Fort Tyler is located at 1105 6th Ave in West Point, GA. From downtown West Point, head northwest on 6th Ave. The entrance to the fort and parking lot will be on your right. Follow the marked trail up the hill to the fort.
Public Transport

While public transportation options directly to Fort Tyler may be limited, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service from nearby transportation hubs or the Kia Georgia plant. From the West Point Visitor's Center, a taxi ride to Fort Tyler would be approximately 5-10 minutes. Taxi/ride-share cost: $10-15.
Driving

From Interstate 85, take Exit 1 (Highway 18) and head west towards West Point. Follow Highway 18 into downtown West Point, then turn onto 6th Avenue. Continue on 6th Avenue, and the entrance to Fort Tyler will be on your right. Free parking is available on-site.

Discover more about Fort Tyler

Fort Tyler stands as a testament to the final days of the Civil War. Constructed in the fall of 1863, the fort was strategically positioned to protect the Chattahoochee River bridges and the crucial railway lines that ran through West Point, Georgia. West Point served as a vital transportation hub, where goods and soldiers were transferred between rail lines with differing gauges.On April 16, 1865, unaware that General Robert E. Lee had surrendered a week prior, Union forces attacked Fort Tyler. Commanded by Confederate Brigadier General Robert C. Tyler, a small garrison of around 265 Confederate soldiers defended the fort against approximately 3,500 Union troops. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the Confederate soldiers held their ground for eight hours before the fort was captured. General Tyler was killed during the battle, becoming the last Confederate general to die in the Civil War.Today, visitors can explore the reconstructed earthen fort and walk the grounds where this historic battle took place. The site features a marked trail that leads to the fort, where you can see reproductions of the artillery pieces that once defended the area. Interpretive signs along the trail provide information about the history of the fort and the Battle of West Point. Fort Tyler is recognized as an official Civil War Discovery Trail site.