Fort Morgan State Historic Site: Guardian of Mobile Bay

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 blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. The star-shaped fort, a National Historic Landmark, was constructed between 1819 and 1834, built with over 40 million bricks, much of the work completed by enslaved African Americans. Fort Morgan was active during the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and both World Wars. It is most famous for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, where Union Admiral David Farragut proclaimed, “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!”. Visitors can explore the fort's grounds, wander through the museum with its military exhibits, and enjoy the stunning views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The museum details the American military history of Mobile Point from 1814 to 1945, showcasing weapons, uniforms, letters, photographs, and personal items of soldiers who served at the fort. The site also features concrete artillery batteries constructed between 1895 and 1904 and historic military buildings dating from 1899 to 1910. Besides its historical significance, Fort Morgan is a haven for bird watchers, especially during migration seasons, and offers opportunities for picnicking and beach activities.