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Fort Morgan State Historic Site: Guardian of Mobile Bay

Explore a 19th-century fort with a rich military history, scenic views, and natural beauty at the entrance to Mobile Bay in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

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Explore Fort Morgan, a 19th-century masonry fort that played a crucial role in American military history. Located at the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula, the site offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved structures, museum, and stunning views of Mobile Bay [1, 2].

A brief summary to Fort Morgan State Historic Site

  • Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and experience the site in the tranquility of the morning light [12].
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the fort can be uneven [12].
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat, as shade is limited [12].
  • Check the schedule for guided tours to enhance your visit with expert historical insights [12].
  • Combine your visit with other activities on the Fort Morgan Peninsula, such as birdwatching or beachcombing [5, 6].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Gulf Shores, take AL-180 W/Fort Morgan Road approximately 22 miles [3, 7]. The fort will be on your right [12]. Parking is available near the museum [2]. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Fort Morgan State Historic Site

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Discover more about Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Fort Morgan State Historic Site, standing at the entrance of Mobile Bay, is a testament to American military history and engineering [1, 8]. Constructed between 1819 and 1834, thisThird System masonry fort served as a strategic stronghold in multiple conflicts, including the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and both World Wars [1, 3, 8]. Visitors can explore the fort's well-preserved structures, including the iconic star-shaped fort with its more than 40 million bricks, a tribute to the skilled masons, including enslaved African Americans, who built it [1, 3, 8]. Wander through the historic grounds, discover concrete artillery batteries dating back to the late 19th century, and examine military buildings from the turn of the 20th century [3, 8]. The on-site museum displays artifacts, weapons, uniforms, letters, and photographs that chronicle the American military history of Mobile Point from 1814 to 1945 [3, 4, 8]. Fort Morgan is most renowned for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, where Union Admiral David Farragut famously declared, "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!" [1, 3]. The site also offers natural beauty, serving as an important stopover for migrating birds and providing opportunities for birdwatching, picnicking, and enjoying the beaches [2, 6, 15].

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