The well-preserved ramparts of Fort Gaines have guarded the. The Fort was recently designated as one of the Eleven Most Endangered Historic Sites in America due to on-going shoreline erosion. Historic Fort Gaines - TownofDauphinIsland The Coast Guard now uses the base to take part in rescue operations. Fort Gaines, located at Dauphin Island along Mobile Bay, was a crucial site for the south during the civil war. Discover the most interesting Civil War locations to visit, from Fort Sumter to the Museum of the Civil War Soldier and more, includes an interactive map of Civil War sites. GOVERNMENT. [4], Looking to the north at the south side of the fort in 2010, Looking to the southwest over the fort in 2008, Anchor from the USS Hartford, located in the center of the fort, June 2012. Contact. Fort Gaines is a historic fort on Dauphin Island, Alabama, United States. : (Save changes and close the date picker. It was named for Edmund Pendleton Gaines. Fort Gaines See all things to do Fort Gaines 4.5 534 reviews #1 of 12 things to do in Dauphin Island Historic Sites Visit website Call Write a review About A restored fort that dates back to the colonial era. Emergency Information. For one of the best things to do there, see the anchor of the USS Hartford. Construction of the fort began in 1821, however problems soon plagued the project, including overbudgeting and engineers sitting the fort too close to the Bay which allowed water to make it's way in during high tide. The city handed the property over to the Alabama Department of Conservation, which deeded it to the Dauphin Island Park and Beach Board. !, opens in a new tab, More information about Gulf Front Condo | Splash Pad on Property! Easy to find. Get Directions Emergency Information. !, opens in a new tab, More information about Bristol 205-Beachfront Condo with Amazing Views of the Water and Amazing Sunsets, opens in a new tab. Hundreds of history documentaries, ad free podcasts and subscriber rewards. Located in the eastern region of the island, the fort was first officially established in 1819 as a U.S. Third System defense, with construction taking up to 1861 to fully complete. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Fort Gaines Historic Site | American Battlefield Trust PARKS & RECREATION | TownofDauphinIsland Dauphin Island Campground, Dauphin Island: See 110 traveler reviews, 78 candid photos, and great deals for Dauphin Island Campground, ranked #2 of 5 specialty lodging in Dauphin Island and rated 4 of 5 at Tripadvisor. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! For any questions or concerns call (251) 861-5525 or send us an email. We stand for diversity, inclusion and families everywhere. Civil Rights Legacy. Historic Fort Gaines, named for Brigadier General Edmund Pendleton Gaines, is situated on the east end of Dauphin Island, Alabama. It was a key site for the Battle of Mobile Bay during the American Civil War and before that was a strategic naval defense area for the British and French. The fort has original cannons, a blacksmith shop, kitchens, a museum, gift shop, and tunnels. Admission: Children (Ages 5 -12) are $5.00 Adults (Ages 13+) are $10.00 Group rates are available. Northern (entrance) facade of Fort Gaines in 2008, U.S. National Register of Historic Places, http://www.mtv.com/onair/fear/season1_maps.jhtml, History of the National Register of Historic Places, List of U.S. National Historic Landmarks by state, List of jails and prisons on the National Register of Historic Places, University and college buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, National Register of Historic Places portal, Chickasaw Shipyard Village Historic District, Mount Vernon Arsenal-Searcy Hospital Complex, Old Mobile Site; Fort Louis De La Louisiane, National Register of Historic Places listings in Mobile, Alabama, National Register of Historic Places listings in Mobile County, Alabama, List of National Historic Landmarks in Alabama, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Fort_Gaines_(Alabama)&oldid=1164893025, American Civil War on the National Register of Historic Places, Forts on the National Register of Historic Places in Alabama, Military installations of the Confederate States of America, National Register of Historic Places in Mobile County, Alabama, Articles using NRISref without a reference number, Articles with dead external links from October 2010, Short description is different from Wikidata, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 4.0, This page was last edited on 11 July 2023, at 18:40. History Hit brings you the stories that shaped the world through our award winning podcast network and an online history channel. This fort and Fort Morgan on the opposite side of Mobile Bay were constructed to defend the bay entrance. These ramparts now offer incredible panoramic views of Gulf of Mexico. 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL 36528. Admission rates are $6 for adults over 13 years old, $4 for children between 5 and 12 years old, and free for children under 5. We will send you the latest TV programmes, podcast episodes and articles, as well as exclusive offers from our shop and carefully selected partners. Town of Dauphin Island 1011 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528 (251) 861-5525. Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of historical activities for kids and adults such as the exhibition of original cannons, five pre-Civil War brick buildings, an operational blacksmith shop, kitchens, a museum, gift shop, and tunnels that were the site of important moments in U.S. history. Already renamed by the French as Dauphin Island, the island passed through British and Spanish hands before becoming part of the United States. We did hear every noise our upstairs neighbors made but that is fairly true of any building. Fort Gaines Historic Site | Gulf Shores & Orange Beach It came under American control in 1813. The fort was designated as one of the Eleven Most Endangered Historic Sites in America by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Fort Gaines served in World War I with a Coastal Artillery unit garrison manning the disappearing guns. Fort Gaines Campground - TownofDauphinIsland Historic Fort Gaines is seen in February 2010 on Dauphin Island, Mobile County. google/Dan Hammerstrom. View Map & Directions. Exciting attractions are located on the island ranging from Fort Gaines to public golf and sugar white sands to the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. Our VRBO host was so helpful and answered all my questions in a timely manner. More information about Beautiful Direct Gulf Front 1 Bedroom (Sleeps 6) at Plantation & Many Amenities!, opens in a new tab, More information about Completely renovated, beautiful condo at the beach. Love Alabama? The trip takes approximately 40 minutes and is a great way for passengers to view birds, sea life and other boats and ships. Fort Gaines (Dauphin Island) - What to Know BEFORE You Go (2023) Get Directions (251) 861-6992. Hours of Operation: 9 AM to 5 PM The Fort will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Quick communication. Are you dreaming about your beach vacation? AMAZING Gulf Views! top of page. 109 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL 36528 United States Website http://dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines/ The site consists of five buildings inside the exterior walls, tunnel systems and corner bastions with spiral stone staircases to the gun placements above. Exhibits include the huge anchor from USSHartford, Admiral David Farragut's flagship on which he gave his world-famous command, "Damn the torpedoes full speed ahead!" Admission rates are $6 for adults over 13 years old, $4 for children between 5 and 12 years old, and free for children under 5. Earn rewards across our family of brands with One Key, We found 2,737 vacation rentals enter your dates for availability. Full speed ahead!. If so, please share your experience with us in the comments below. Easy check in/out process. Dauphin Island, AL 36528. With the purpose of defending its new territory and ensuring that other nations wouldnt be able to control the area, the American government established Fort Gaines between 1819 and 1861. The site is considered to be one of the nation's best-preserved Civil War era masonry forts and has been nominated for listing as a National Historic Landmark. 9:00 - 5:00 Daily. Fort Gaines Campground Website. Image of Gulf Front Condo | Outdoor Pool & Grill | Hot Deals Available for July!! Fort Gaines is a historic fort on Dauphin Island, Alabama, United States. The museum helps visitors get acquainted with the historical details of the period during which the fort and area were used, starting with the French colonial presence in the 18th century, then onto the Civil War era up to today. Visitors can also find guided tour excursions held throughout the year and presented by experts dressed up with typical costumes from the era. Dauphin Island is relaxed and quiet, a far cry from the loud hustle of many other beaches along the gulf. Historic Fort Gaines is seen in February 2010 on Dauphin Island, Mobile County. The walls were built of brick and sand in order to absorb artillery fire. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. The fort was partially modernized for the SpanishAmerican War. 4208 is perfect for you!, opens in a new tab, More information about Sunset and Relaxation await Spot of Water Front & Water Sports on Bon Secour Bay, opens in a new tab, More information about Completely renovated lovely bay home., opens in a new tab, More information about Relax at our Beautiful Ocean View Condo at Beach Front Resort, opens in a new tab. The fort, along with Fort Morgan to thet east across the entrance to Mobile Bay, played a major role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in August 1864 during the Civil War. 10 Facts About Mary Shelley: The Woman Behind Frankenstein, The Origins of the United States Two-Party System, History Through Statues: The American Civil War, 10 Historic Sites You Should Not Miss in 2023, 10 Native American History Museums in the USA, Unmissable Car Museums to Visit in the USA, Weird and Wonderful Museums to Visit in the United States, Unmissable Wild West Experiences in the USA, Six Feet Under: Gunslinger Graves of the Wild West, The Top Wild West Towns You Can Visit Today, Important Maritime Museums to Visit Around the World, Important Pearl Harbor Sites to Visit in Hawaii. Construction of the fort began in 1819, but the work quickly ran over budget and the foundations proved to be so close to Mobile Bay that water flowed into them at high tide. We enjoyed our stay tremendously here. Very nice, lots of outside area for enjoying the beauty of the ocean and bay, we loved our stay, the crab fishing was so much fun, minutes from the public beach, restaurants and golfing, owners are fantastic, friendly and helpful, would recommend . For information, be sure to take a look at the following article: The Day Trip Of A Lifetime You Can Only Take In Alabama. Dauphin Island Campground Welcome to your free, online resource on Alabama history, culture, geography, and natural environment. Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528 (251) 861-5525. We did have to run the vent every time we cooked or the smoke detector went off even though there was nothing smoking or burning. Fort Gaines is a nineteenth century fortification on Dauphin Island, Alabama. Courtesy of the George F . Today its one of the most visited family friendly historic sites in Alabama, full of activities, excursions and events for kids and adults. Fort Gaines is located at 51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, Alabama; and it is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM year-round. Availible Aug 26-Sept 1., opens in a new tab. The Army finally gained clear title to the land in 1853 but the Chief Engineer, Joseph G. Totten, decided to discontinue current construction, opting for a newly designed fort that incorporated the latest advances in military architecture. Historic Fort Gaines - Dauphin Island - Alabama.Travel Significant masonry damage had been sustained during hurricanes and tropical storms during its lifetime. Fort Gaines Map - Park - Alabama, United States - Mapcarta Has Great views of the Gulf in a Family friendly resort., opens in a new tab, More information about We Snowbirds! Tours often include cannon and blacksmithing demonstrations. These have been carefully repaired over years so that it remains a viable historic activity. The island itself has a rich history, having been a French, British and Spanish colony and once having been called Massacre Island due to the large number of remains found there by a sixteenth century French explorer. Please contact us today at (251)-861-3311 for more information about traveling to Dauphin Island, lodging choices, or if you have any questions about things to do here. 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The listing identifies the ten most endangered Civil War battlefields in the United States. The address of Fort Gaines is 109 Bienville Blvd. We love the Beach Club. Fort Gaines, Dauphin Island Vacation Rentals: hotel rentals & more - Vrbo Dauphin Island was first named Massacre Island. Travelling by car is advised. Take in the sun, close to the action & a short beach walk**, opens in a new tab, More information about Beachfront Condo- Newly Renovated Fall of 2020. Hurricane Re-Entry Passes. The site also became an anti-aircraft gunnery school during and following the war. Food & Drink. Arts & Culture. Fort Gaines is a well preserved 1800s fort on Dauphin Island that serves as a popular attraction for historic trips and tours. The trip between Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan at Mobile Point provides wonderful views of the two historic forts that have long guarded the entrance of Mobile Bay. The fort was used as a camp site for the Alabama National Guard in World War II and a base for the U.S. Coast Guard stationed to operate against enemy submarines. If you are looking to travel from overseas, the nearest commercial airports are in Atlanta in Georgia or Dallas, Texas. Thank you! Thus, Fort Gaines was later rebuilt between 1853 and 1862, the latter part of the work done by Confederate soldiers due to the breakout of the American Civil War. Beaches. The kitchen was small but very well stocked. Get Directions Not only is the Fort one of the most fascinating things to do on the island for history enthusiasts, but the entirety of Dauphin Island is a dedicated wildlife preservation and also a vacation area full of attractions. A museum details the history of this period, as well as the French colonial presence beginning in the late 17th century. In 1926 the United States sold Fort Gaines to the City of Mobile. Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528 (251) 861-5525. This masonry fort, which was built in 1821, is one of the state's most popular historic sites, and it attracts numerous visitors each year from all across the U.S. Rent a whole home for your next weekend or holiday. It is full of off-the-radar beaches, piers, sand bars and fishing spots, which remain ideal for family day trips and excursions. Details Events American Express, Discover . Mobile Bay Ferry | Dauphin Island Landing & Fort Morgan Landing However, due to storms and continued and inevitable erosion, the fort has suffered damages. Fort Gaines is next door, and there is a wonderful bike path which runs down the length of Bienville. Exciting attractions are located on the island ranging from Fort Gaines to public golf and sugar white sands to the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. They could use some yard work done because the grass is super high and since we brought our fur baby it was a little stressful being that close to such high grass. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Dauphin Island, AL 36528. In 1853 Congress named the Fort for Gaines, most noted for his role in capturing former Vice-President Aaron Burr who was accused of participating in a conspiracy to commit treason. Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528 (251) 861-5525. Fort Gaines (Alabama) - Wikipedia It was named for Revolutionary War hero Gen. Edmund Pendleton Gaines. Location and Hours. In 1898 the Fort was further modified as a result of the Spanish-American conflict. Fort Morgan, also a preserved historic site, stands across the entrance of the bay from the Dauphin Island fort. Gaines is also noted for his unyielding defense of Fort Erie (Ontario) during the War of 1812. GOVERNMENT. DAUPHIN ISLAND CAMPGROUND - Reviews (AL) - Tripadvisor Friends of Fort Gaines 51 Bienville Blvd. It was named for Edmund Pendleton Gaines. Our Book with Confidence guarantee gives you 24/7 support, Enjoy full kitchens, laundry, pools, yards and more, More space, more privacy, more amenities more value. Several historical events have taken place in Alabama, and were incredibly lucky that so many of the sites where these events occurred are still standing today. For more information about Fort Gaines, you can view its. Has Great views of the Gulf in a Family friendly resort. Three six-inch disappearing naval guns and three rapid fire three-inch naval guns were emplaced. However the Union fleet, which consisted of eighteen vessels, was too much for the Confederate fleet of four and eventually led Confederate commander Admiral Franklin Buchanan to surrender. Explore an array of Fort Gaines, Dauphin Island vacation rentals, including hotel suite vacation rentals, private villas & more bookable online. Experiences . The bathroom in the master is smaller but very functional. Dauphin Island East End Beach: The second Dauphin Island beach on the list, the East End Beach offers walks with your pet that will go past historic coastal landmarks such as Fort Gaines. Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island - Encyclopedia of Alabama . Why Was Charlie Chaplin Investigated by the FBI? History. The address of Fort Gaines is 109 Bienville Blvd. Construction of Fort Gaines began in 1821, as part of the Third System plan to shore up the countrys seacoast defences. It is a tourist destination with tours and historical reenactment events. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Was an excellent stay at River's place, everything was modern and clean and very spacious. Because of this, were able to visit them in person and stand on the actual grounds where these events took place. 2023 Alabama Humanities Alliance - All Rights Reserved, Courtesy of the George F. Landegger Collection of Alabama Photographs in Carol M. Highsmith's America, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division. The ferry takes you . A series of other problems followed and it was The fort also has the original cannons used in the battle, five pre-Civil War brick buildings in the interior courtyard, operational blacksmith shop and kitchens, tunnel systems to the fortified corner bastions, and similar features. Another historic fort in Alabama thats a great day trip destination is Fort Morgan. Emergency Information. A dry moat was also added which extended thirty-five feet from the base of the walls. Fort Gaines provides guided tours for groups of 15 people or more with at least two weeks in advanced notice for booking and that they are done by our own soldier in period uniform which will bring history to life including cannon firing demonstration and blacksmithing. MAYOR & TOWN COUNCIL; . Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Get Directions Phone (251) 861-6992 Email thefort@townofdauphinisland.org The well-preserved ramparts of Fort Gaines have guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. She enjoys discovering new places and currently calls North Alabama home. The vacant lots on both sides of the condo is a blessing and irritation. Get Directions . Historic Fort Gaines is located at the eastern tip of Dauphin Island, Alabama. Visitors can take in the sprawling beaches, protected natural environments, and enjoy many family friendly amenities in this very historic environment. More information about Fort Gaines. Fort Gaines is widely known known as one of the best preserved Civil War forts. The ramparts of Fort Gaines have watched the entrance to Mobile Bay for well over a century, during which they have remained well maintained. One spot in Alabama where history has definitely left a mark is Fort Gaines, which you can read all about below. Dauphin Island was first named Massacre Island when the French arrived in 1699 due to the many Native Americans burial skeletons that were seen upon landing. Travelling by car is advised. Skip main Navigation. For these reasons, the Civil War Preservation Trust placed Fort Gaines on its History Under Siege listing on March 18, 2009. FORT GAINES | TownofDauphinIsland Now a historic site, the Fort stands at the eastern tip of Dauphin Island where it commands panoramic views of the bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Along with Fort Morgan, which sits on the opposite shore at the mouth of Mobile Bay, and a small Confederate fleet, Fort Gaines attempted to stop advancing Union forces from entering the Bay. Otherwise, everything was perfect! Fort Gaines is located at 51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, Alabama; and it is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM year-round. ), If checked, only properties that allow pets will be shown. Image Credit: George Dodd III/Shutterstock.com, The Incredible Story of William J. Bankes - Adventurer, Collector, Spy, A Tudor Discovery Thomas Cromwells Prayer Book, The Lost Sailors - Solving a World War II Mystery, The First US President: 10 Fascinating Facts About George Washington, City Stormers: The Formidable Siege Engines of Alexander the Great, How Celts Laid Waste to Alexander the Greats Homeland, The Bloody Demise of King Ptolemy The Thunderbolt of Macedon, Historical Trips - Book your next historical adventure, 10 Best Ancient and Archaeological Sites in Crete, Fanny Mendelssohn: A Musical Prodigy and Forgotten Legacy, Anne Bront: The Forgotten Sister Who Made a Mark on Victorian Literature, The Life and Times of Truman Capote: 10 Facts About the Literary Icon, The Real Story Behind In Cold Blood: Truman Capotes True Crime Masterpiece. Established in 1821, it is best known for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the American Civil War. The well-preserved ramparts of Fort Gaines have guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. Start planning your trip and find the perfect Dauphin Island vacation rental for you: document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Fort Gaines - Dauphin Island, Alabama Historic Fort Gaines - Dauphin Island, Alabama Come see us today! Fort Gaines - History and Facts | History Hit Fort Gaines went on to have roles in the Spanish-American War and as a base during the First and Second World Wars. Opens in a new window. Today, the fascinating historic site is open daily for tours, school groups and sightseers. This site offers articles on Alabama's people, events, sports, art, literature, industry, government, plant and animal life, agriculture, recreation, and so much more. More information about Updated Waterfront Beachhouse | Sleeps 12 | My Beach Getaways, opens in a new tab, More information about **Spring is here! The well-preserved ramparts of Fort Gaines have guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 150 years.