Historic Fort Gaines

Historic Site

As Adm. David Farragut's fleet of 14 frigates and four iron-clad monitors prepared to engage Forts Gaines and Fort Morgan on Aug. 5, 1864, Col. Charles Anderson and his 800 Confederate troops were ordered to hold Fort Gaines at any cost. The Union monitor Tecumseh struck a torpedo and sank immediately. Seeing the screw propellers of the sinking Tecumseh turning in the air, Farragut bellowed, "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!" Immediately after gaining safety in Mobile Bay, Farragut's attention turned upon Fort Gaines. On Aug. 8, Fort Gaines surrendered.

Wheelchair Accessible

For more information visit:
http://www.dauphinisland.org

• Open year-round 9-5; group tour by appt.; June-Aug. 9-6

• Not provided