Last updated: January 6, 2024
Place
Fort Pulaski
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
Cockspur Island, Georgia
Significance:
The site of the first use of rifled artillery technology in military history.
Designation:
National Historic Landmark District
Amenities
8 listed
Benches/Seating, Cellular Signal, First Aid/Medical Care Available, Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Information - Maps Available, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present
After the War of 1812 there was a push by the United States to better protect its maritime interests. From 1816 through the end of the American Civil War, the United States constructed over forty state of the art coastal fortifications. This included Fort Pulaski, which was built to protect the port of Savannah. Construction of the fort began in 1829 and took 18 years to complete.
Fort Pulaski saw its heaviest use during the Civil War. Beginning the conflict as a United States fort, Fort Pulaski was seized by the State of Georgia. Authority over the fort was transferred to the Confederates States of America. The United States once again took possession of the fort after a fifty day siege and two day artillery battle that saw the first use of rifled artillery in combat.
Fort Pulaski's role during the war changed a number of times. Not only was it used as a fortification, the fort was also home to soldiers from both sides of the conflict and served as a prison of war camp for soldiers. It also served as a safe haven for formerly enslaved people.
While the fort was ultimately abandoned at the turn of the 20th century, Fort Pulaski has a lot of stories to share. You can explore the fort on your own or take an interpretive program that can help unravel its mysteries.
Fort Pulaski saw its heaviest use during the Civil War. Beginning the conflict as a United States fort, Fort Pulaski was seized by the State of Georgia. Authority over the fort was transferred to the Confederates States of America. The United States once again took possession of the fort after a fifty day siege and two day artillery battle that saw the first use of rifled artillery in combat.
Fort Pulaski's role during the war changed a number of times. Not only was it used as a fortification, the fort was also home to soldiers from both sides of the conflict and served as a prison of war camp for soldiers. It also served as a safe haven for formerly enslaved people.
While the fort was ultimately abandoned at the turn of the 20th century, Fort Pulaski has a lot of stories to share. You can explore the fort on your own or take an interpretive program that can help unravel its mysteries.