We all know that Charleston is a city filled with history, and the many military forts are an example of the past coming to life. Featuring fortresses used in the American Civil War, Revolutionary War, and pieces of larger settlements, visiting a fort from this list can provide you with a deeper understanding of Charleston’s military significance for America. Let’s dive into some of the best forts to visit and explore what makes them stand out as must-see historical locations!
40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
Arguably, Fort Sumter is Charleston’s most notable fort, and brings in over 400,000 tourists each year. As one of the most monumental symbols of America’s Civil War, Sumter sits tucked in the famous and stunning Charleston Harbour as a reminder of the city’s impact on historical legacy.
History
Following South Carolina’s secession from the Union, U.S. Major Robert Anderson, a union member, occupied the fort in December of 1860, which initiated a standoff between contrasting military forces. After Abraham Lincoln announced his plans to resupply the fort, Confederate forces bombarded Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, kicking off the Battle at fort Sumter. It was these shots that were the very first shots fired in the Civil War, marking the fort as the wars’ birthplace. After 34 hours of artillery fire, Anderson and his troops surrendered, prompting confederate troops to occupy the fort for years following. Because of its status as an early, strong base of coastal defense, Confederates were successfully able to ward off attacks and bombardments by the Union. Shortly after the eventual abandonment of the fort, William T. Sherman captured the city of Charleston in February of 1865.
Things to Do
Once you arrive to the fort, explore the well-preserved fort ruins, visit the museum to learn more about the fort’s role in the war, and enjoy a guided tour to soak in as much knowledge as possible. With interactive displays and a beautiful setting over the water, tourists, locals, history buffs, and even children can have a great day that is both exciting and educational! The ferry ride is also a nice bonus! If you’re new to Fort Sumter and are looking for a new way to spice up your free time, visiting is definitely worth it.
Historic Fort Sumter is located in Charleston Harbor and is only accessible by a tour boat. While there is no entrance fee, ferry tickets are required. For more information on tours, fort attractions, and how to best prepare for your visit, check out their website!
340 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401
History
Many know that Fort Sumter was home to the first shots of the Civil War, but many don’t realize that is was almost Fort Moultrie that was occupied at the time of the war’s genesis. Originally made from the tree trunks of Palm Trees, Fort Moultrie sat in the Charleston Harbour. The sponginess of the Palmetto wood was successfully able to repell British cannonballs and helped them to win battles contributed to the Revolutionary War. Years later during the Civil War, Confederate Troops fired at Fort Sumter, which was claimed by the Union at the time, until the Unions eventual surrender. When the Union succeeded Fort Sumter, Confederate troops moved there to have a more secure and conveniently placed military base. Once this move occurred, Moultrie was virtually abandoned, but has been restored today so visitors like you can use it as a tool to put the pieces of American history together.
Things to Do
Though in the same park as Fort Sumter, Fort Moultrie is also accessible by car, meaning you don’t need to purchase ferry tickets to dive into ints history. Aside from visiting and soaking up the stunning scenery and history, the park offers guided tours and museum exhibits to help you dive even deeper into the legacy of the fort. The museum is both child and adult friendly, so the whole family can have a day of educational fun!
Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
History
Though not as well known as Fort Sumter or Fort Moultrie, Fort Pickney played a pivotal role in the War of 1812. Pickney was built in the late 18th century and acted as another coastal defense base in the Charleston Harbour. Though it never saw military action as extensive as in Sumter or Moultrie, there were several invasion attempts. Aside from being used as defense, the fort also served as a lighthouse to guide boaters back to shore. After its abandonment as a military base, it later served as a temporary prison during the Civil War. Today, the ruins of the fort help to tell a story of war and military affairs in Charleston in history, and it is a great place to go to learn about the history of the Holy City in more depth.
Things to Do
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the remnants of the historic fort and imagine its role in defending the city during the War of 1812 and the Civil War. With stunning views of the harbour, you’ll have opportunities to take photos of the water and Charleston skyline. The fort is accessible by private boat or kayak, meaning it won’t be quite as crowded as a place such as Sumter or Moultrie, allowing you to have a more serene and peaceful day at the fort for yourself to reflect and learn.
221 Yates Ave, Charleston, SC 29412
History
Fort Pemberton is an important Civil War fortification used for defense by the Confederates of Charleston. The fort was constructed in 1862 by the order of C.S.A. Brig. Gen. John C. Pemberton and was therefore named after him. It acted as a major defense line on James Island, built to add an additional layer between naval forces and the city of Charleston. What sets Fort Pemberton apart from other forts in the Charleston area is the fact that it was built and designed to be both a land and water battery. As a water battery, the fort prevented Union gunboats from accessing the Stono River leading to Charleston. As a land battery, many guns faced inland to prepare for a Union attack on foot.
With parts of the fort already lost due to expanding road infrastructure, it is important now more than ever to visit before it becomes potentially lost forever.
Things to Do
As a smaller and less well-known fort destination of Charleston, guided tours are not available. However, visitors can visit both the land and water battery side of the fort and relive what it was like to be a Confederate solider. Additionally, the fort can be accessed through water! Surrounded by lush greenery, Fort Pemberton takes you on a journey through time.
2213 North Palmetto Fort Drive, Mount Pleasant, SC, 29466
History
Fort Palmetto, with its picturesque marsh views and interesting history, provides a less crowded and free recreational alternative to other parks and fort locations in the Charleston area. Confederate Commanding General Robert E. Lee supervised the design and construction of South Carolina’s coastal defenses, including what’s known as the Christ Church Lines. They extended 2.5-miles and were built over the course of only two months in 1861, using slave labor from location Charleston plantations. Fort Palmetto was a three-gun battery, created to fortify the eastern end of the Christ Church Lines, and to protect Confederates from Union attack. Fort Palmetto was strategically placed to prevent any Union ships from using the inland waterways to land troops near Mount Pleasant and advance on Charleston. Palmetto Fort is another example of a historical fortification surrounding the city to protect the gem that it is.
Things to Do
Sitting in Fort Palmetto Park, the fort lays over a stunning marsh and oceanic scenery. Parking and entry is free during park hours. Guided tours are not available, but feel free to stroll at your own pace through the historical site and learn something new about your states’ past.
300 State Park Rd, Summerville, SC 29485
Fort Dorchester Ruins, also known as Colonial Dorchester, sits just a few miles inland from the city of Charleston. As one of the oldest fortresses on this list, Fort Dorchester gives us an idea of how the city of Dorchester got its name. Way back in January of 1696, small group of settlers from the town of Dorchester, Massachusetts acquired 4,050 acres, including the 1,800 acres along the Boshoe Creek and Ashley River that would eventually house the village of Dorchester. With a convenient location, the city thrived. Eventually, a church, bell tower, residential areas, and the beloved fort were built. Dorchester’s location made it a strategic military site. Fear of a possible French invasion prompted the construction of a powder magazine and fort from 1757 to 1760. From the strong military point, soldiers could directly fire along the walls in case of invaders. The French invasion never came and the town saw little military activity until the American Revolution in 1775. After Charleston soldiers lost to the British, Dorchester became a British outpost. Eventually, American forces seized the town and the British were driven out. The fort suffered massive damages from these wars, and was subsequently abandoned, along with the rest of the village.
Things to Do
Park admission is 3 dollars, but you’ll certainly earn your moneys worth with so much to see. In addition to the fortress, ruins of one of Charleston’s earliest booming settlements are waiting for you to behold. Archaeologists are still working hard, digging at the village site to uncover what further secrets lie beneath the lush greenery, and you may spot them during your visit.
Each of these forts offer a journey through time, whether you’re interested in naval history, the Civil War, the Revolutionary War, or early settlements. From the iconic Fort Sumter, home to the first Civil War shots, to the lesser known Colonial Dorchester, a booming settlement and village for early settlers, each site has its own unique story to uncover. Plan your visit today and uncover the stories behind these remarkable sites that continue to shape Charleston’s heritage as one of America’s largest early settlements.
