Fort Morgan (Alabama)

Fort Morgan is a historic masonry fort located on the eastern end of Mobile Point, in Baldwin County, Alabama. It guards the entrance to Mobile Bay, strategically positioned to protect the city of Mobile from seaborne attacks.

History

Construction of Fort Morgan began in 1819, following the War of 1812, which highlighted the vulnerability of Mobile Bay. The fort was named in honor of General James Morgan, a Revolutionary War hero. Its construction was slow and protracted, with the fort not fully completed until the 1830s. It played a significant role in the Civil War, witnessing the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, where it was fiercely defended by Confederate forces against a Union naval squadron under Admiral David Farragut. Despite its valiant defense, the fort ultimately fell to the Union, contributing significantly to the fall of Mobile. Following the Civil War, Fort Morgan saw various periods of use and neglect.

Architecture and Design

Fort Morgan is a classic example of 19th-century coastal fortification. It features thick masonry walls, strategically placed gun emplacements, and underground tunnels and passages. Its design reflects the military engineering principles of the era, adapted to the specific geographical features of Mobile Point.

Present Day

Today, Fort Morgan is a popular tourist destination and a state historic site. Visitors can explore the fort's grounds, learn about its history through museum exhibits, and gain an appreciation for its strategic importance. It offers stunning views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The fort's preserved structures and artifacts provide a tangible link to Alabama's rich military and maritime past. Restoration and preservation efforts are ongoing to maintain the fort for future generations.