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Fort Morgan State Historic Site: Guardian of Mobile Bay

Explore a historic military fort on Alabama's Gulf Coast, offering a glimpse into the past and stunning views of Mobile Bay.

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Explore Fort Morgan, a 19th-century military fort that played a crucial role in American history, including the Civil War's Battle of Mobile Bay. Wander through the fort's brick walls, explore the museum, and enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

A brief summary to Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to explore the fort, museum, and grounds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, as there is limited shade.
  • Check the website for information on guided tours and special events.
  • Consider taking the ferry from Dauphin Island for a scenic and shorter route.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Fort Morgan State Historic Site is located at the end of Highway 180, approximately 22 miles west of Highway 59 in Gulf Shores. From Gulf Shores, take Highway 180 West until you reach the fort. Parking is available near the museum. Parking is free.

  • Ferry

    Alternatively, from Dauphin Island, you can take the Mobile Bay Ferry to Fort Morgan. The ferry ride is approximately 40 minutes and saves about 2 hours of driving. From the ferry landing, it is a short drive to the Fort Morgan State Historic Site. The one-way ferry cost for a car and driver is around $18.50, with additional passengers costing $6 each. Check the Mobile Bay Ferry website for the most up-to-date schedule and pricing.

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, located at the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula in Gulf Shores, Alabama, has stood as the guardian of Mobile Bay since 1834. This 479-acre site offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. The star-shaped fort, constructed between 1819 and 1834, is a testament to the skilled masons, many of whom were enslaved African Americans, who used over 40 million bricks to build it. Fort Morgan was active during four wars: the War of 1812, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and World Wars I and II. It is most famous for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, where Union Admiral David Farragut famously declared, "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!". Visitors can explore the fort's many rooms and casements, imagining life as a soldier stationed at this remote outpost. The site includes a museum that details the American military history of Mobile Point from 1814 to 1945. Exhibits feature weapons, uniforms, letters, photographs, and personal items of soldiers who served at the fort. Self-guided tour brochures are available to help visitors navigate the fort and grounds. In addition to the fort itself, the site features concrete artillery batteries constructed between 1895 and 1904 and historic military buildings dating from 1899 to 1910. Beyond its historical significance, Fort Morgan is also a haven for nature lovers. The site is part of the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail and is recognized as one of the "One Hundred Globally Important Bird Areas". During the fall and spring migration seasons, bird watchers can spot a variety of bird species. The site also offers opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying the beaches along Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can also take in scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay.

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