Battery Experimental: A Coastal Defense Relic

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Explore a unique military test site in Gulf Shores, AL, where a coastal gun battery faced live fire from battleships in the early 20th century.

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Battery Experimental

Explore Battery Experimental in Gulf Shores, Alabama, a unique military test site built in 1915 to assess the survivability of coastal gun batteries against naval bombardment. Though deactivated in 1918, its remains offer a glimpse into early 20th-century military engineering.

A brief summary to Battery Experimental

Gulf Shores, Alabama, 36542, US

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and potentially sandy areas.
Bring sunscreen and water, as there is limited shade available.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Fort Morgan State Historic Site to explore more military history.

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Getting There

Driving

From Gulf Shores, head west on Highway 180 (Fort Morgan Road) for approximately 22 miles. The drive is scenic, passing beaches and coastal communities. Follow the signs to Fort Morgan State Historic Site. Battery Experimental is located within the Fort Morgan site. Parking at Fort Morgan State Historic Site costs $15 for all-day. Paid parking is in effect from March 1 through November 30, from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m..
Taxi/Ride-sharing

From Gulf Shores, taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. A ride to Fort Morgan typically takes around 20-25 minutes. The estimated fare for an UberX ride is approximately $45-$70, but prices may vary depending on demand and time of day. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip. Once you arrive at Fort Morgan State Historic Site, there is a $7 entry fee.

Discover more about Battery Experimental

Battery Experimental, located within Fort Morgan State Historic Site in Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers a unique look into early 20th-century military technology. Constructed in 1915 by the U.S. Army Coast Artillery Corps, its purpose was to test the ability of Endicott Period gun batteries to withstand battleship bombardment.The battery featured a single 10-inch gun on a disappearing carriage. In 1916, the Navy subjected the battery to a two-day shelling by the battleships USS New York and USS Arkansas. The results indicated that the chances of hitting the target were slim, and even slimmer were the chances of causing significant damage. The gun was removed shortly after the tests, and the battery was deactivated in 1918.Today, visitors can explore the remains of Battery Experimental and learn about its role in shaping coastal defense strategies. While there isn't an informative museum on site, the well-preserved fortifications and beautiful natural surroundings make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast.