About
Where tales of history and bravery echo off walls that have borne the brunt of Civil War cannons, Fort Morgan Historic Site stands at the mouth of Mobile Bay as a testament to America's multifaceted past.
This fortress, completed in 1834, was a strategic hold during the Battle of Mobile Bay, famous for the "Damn the torpedoes" command attributed to Admiral Farragut. Here, visitors tread the ground where soldiers once stood, touching the original masonry that has withstood battles and the test of time.
Fort Morgan has seen many faces of history, from Spanish explorers to American soldiers. It became a key player during the Civil War and a guardian in the Spanish-American War and World Wars I and II.
The site's museum provides a comprehensive overview of the fort's role through these pivotal historical points, showcasing artifacts that bring the past to life with an almost tangible intensity. The fort is a capsule of stories waiting to be unveiled.
With architecture that reveals a mix of traditional and newly imagined defense strategies, Fort Morgan beckons those who eagerly search for a deeper understanding of the evolution of military fortification.
Fort Morgan Historic Site is where history isn't confined to textbooks but is etched into the very landscape, offering a panoramic view once surveyed by vigilant eyes for signs of friend or foe.
Fun Facts & Cool Features
At Fort Morgan Historic Site, it's not just about the stoic walls and silent cannons; the fort is alive with intriguing tidbits and awe-inspiring features.
One key fact is that the fort is near a critical migratory bird path at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Additionally, the fort houses an original seacoast battery, representing the cutting edge of 19th-century technology.
Another fascinating feature is the fort's lighthouse, which has guided mariners since 1822. Though damaged in the Civil War, it was rebuilt and serves as a beacon of maritime travel and historical endurance.
For those fascinated by the clandestine, the hidden tunnels within the fort's structure are initially used for covert movements and logistics.
Visiting Fort Morgan Historic Site in Orange Beach is ideal for anyone passionate about history, architecture, or learning captivating stories.
Whether observing historical reenactments, exploring the depths of the fort's tunnels, or enjoying the Gulf's breeze against ancient brick, the Fort Morgan Historic Site invites all to discover its layers of history.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions to ensure a seamless journey from Orange Beach to Fort Morgan Historic Site:
- Start on Perdido Beach Blvd, heading west towards the Gulf State Park.
- Turn left onto AL-161 N/Orange Beach Blvd.
- Make a slight right turn onto AL-180 W/Canal Rd; continue to follow AL-180 W for approximately 21 miles.
- As you approach, look for the unmistakable battlements silhouetted against the sky—Fort Morgan will be on your right.
- Address: 110 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Cost
Below are the costs of visiting Fort Morgan Historic Site:
- Adults: $8.00
- Seniors (65+): $7.00
- Students & Children (6-12): $5.00
- Children (under 6): Free
- Groups (10 or more): $7 per person
Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.
Local Tips
- Arrive early to experience the site in the tranquility of morning light and avoid afternoon crowds.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat—The Gulf sun is relentless.
- Fill up water bottles at the visitor center before you embark on your journey through history.
- Check out the schedule for guided tours to enrich your visit with expert historical insights.
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must on the uneven terrain of the fort's historic paths.