If you’ve never been to Fort Morgan Alabama, then you’re missing out on a beautiful place! The unincorporated town is located just west of Gulf Shores on Mobile Point, an extension of the peninsula that stretches from the shore of Gulf Shores westward, towards historic Fort Morgan. If you have never been here, there are several things you need to know before planning your vacation. Read on to learn more about this quaint coastal community.
The town is located along the Gulf of Mexico, on the southern tip of Mobile Bay. The Gulf Coast is just 20 miles away, making Fort Morgan an ideal destination for people seeking a quieter beach vacation. The local area is rich in history, and the beaches are beautiful. The quaint town offers some of the most charming amenities, so it’s a great place to go on a relaxing vacation! During your stay, you can experience the local culture, enjoy nature, or explore a local art museum.
For a truly unique experience, take the time to tour the Fort Morgan National Historic Site. The fort is a star-shaped architectural wonder that has stood guard in the Gulf of Mexico since 1812. It has also been active during the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and World Wars I and II. The 479-acre fort was built with 40 million bricks by skilled masons. Its unique shape also allowed for multiple fire directions, which was important in fending off land-based attacks.
The museum also features photographs taken during the Battle of Mobile Bay and shortly after. The museum opened in 1963 and showcased some of the 200 artifacts that were donated by a collector in Vicksburg, Mississippi. The collection featured Confederate money, buckles, a sausage grinder, a lady’s side saddle, and more. There is a permanent display of relics and exhibits at Fort Morgan, which is worth a visit!
Originally, the fort was meant to have minimal supervision, but the Corps of Engineers took over after two unsuccessful attempts to commission the work to civilian contractors. The “Work on Mobile Point” was designed by Simon Bernard, a French military engineer who had served under Napoleon. Construction took four years, and the finished fort was built on the site. The fort included a brick masonry structure, five bastions, and a decagon-shaped citadel. Eventually, it became known as Fort Morgan, and the fort was named after Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan.
For an unforgettable vacation in Fort Morgan, Alabama, don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s history and its beautiful coastline. Fort Morgan is home to a Civil War-era military post, which is now a wildlife refuge. A visit to the Fort Morgan State Park includes Battery Bowyer, an 1898-era reinforced concrete coastal gun battery. This battery was operational during the Spanish-American War, as well as World War I.