Fort San Carlos Historical Marker
Commemorating the westernmost battle of the American Revolution, fought in St. Louis at Fort San Carlos.
The Fort San Carlos Historical Marker stands as a reminder of a pivotal moment in St. Louis history. It marks the location of Fort San Carlos, the site of the westernmost battle of the American Revolutionary War. In 1780, the fort, then under Spanish control, was attacked by British and Native American forces. The defense of the fort was led by Lieutenant Governor Fernando de Leyba, who commanded a mixed force of townspeople, soldiers, and free and enslaved Black individuals. Despite being outnumbered, the defenders managed to repel the attack, securing the area for the Spanish. This victory was strategically important, as it thwarted British efforts to control the Mississippi River. The battle itself took place on what is now the grounds of Ballpark Village, near the corner of 4th and Walnut Streets. The historical marker is currently located on South Broadway, near the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark hotel. Every year on May 28th, the Fort San Carlos Society commemorates the battle at the site by reading the names of the 21 people who lost their lives. While the original fort no longer stands, the historical marker serves as a tangible link to this unique chapter in American history.
Local tips
- Visit the nearby Gateway Arch National Park to learn more about the history of St. Louis and the westward expansion of the United States.
- Check out the view from Three-Sixty, a rooftop bar at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, which offers a panoramic view of downtown St. Louis and the former site of Fort San Carlos.
- Take a stroll through Ballpark Village and imagine the battle that took place there in 1780.
A brief summary to Fort San Carlos Historical Marker
- 1 S Broadway, St. Louis, Downtown, Missouri, 63102, US
Getting There
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Walking
The Fort San Carlos Historical Marker is located at 1 S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102, near the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark. From many downtown locations, the marker is easily accessible on foot. Head towards the ballpark, and you'll find the marker on the grounds of the Hilton, near its patio.
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Public Transport
St. Louis has a comprehensive public transportation system. You can take the MetroLink train or MetroBus to a stop near the Ballpark Village. From there, it's a short walk to the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, where the marker is located. A single ride on the MetroBus costs $1. A single ride on the MetroLink costs $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in St. Louis. A short taxi ride from another point in downtown to the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark will likely cost between $10 and $20, depending on the distance and any surge pricing.
Attractions Nearby to Fort San Carlos Historical Marker
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Museum of Westward Expansion
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Kiener Plaza Park
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CityArchRiver
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Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France
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The Gateway Arch
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Museum at the Gateway Arch
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Busch Stadium
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Citygarden Sculpture Park
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Gateway Arch National Park
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Economy Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
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St. Louis' Custom House and Post Office Historic Landmark (Old Post Office)
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The Field House Museum
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Serra Sculpture Park
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Old Post Office Plaza
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St. Louis Riverfront
Landmarks nearby to Fort San Carlos Historical Marker
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Fort San Carlos Historical Marker
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Gateway park
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The Security Building
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Arcade Building
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Moll's Clock
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St. Louis City Hall
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Clamorgan Alley - Historical landmark
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Sawcoff Memorial
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Meeting of the Waters Fountain and Sculpture
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Historic Trinity
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Landmarks Association of St Louis, Inc
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The Franklin of Soulard
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Soulard Station
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Lafayette Square
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Soulard Art Gallery