Fort Morris Historic Site

Fort Morris Historic Site is located on the banks of the Medway River, south of Savannah and just off of the I-95 interstate. Just away from the hustle and bustle of the interstate, lies one of South Georgia's historical hidden gems, Fort Morris. The fort has played an important role in various conflicts and wars, helping to protect South Georgia's ports to the Atlantic Ocean and abroad.

The fort was constructed in the early days of 1741 by plantation owner Captain Mark Carr, to protect his newly granted 500 acres land by the Georgia Trustees and King George III. Indians loyal to the Spanish in Florida constantly threatened the fort and by March the same year, the fort was lost, several men died, the fort and plantations goods were stolen and the victors sailed away in a large boat owned by the plantation.

The fort fell into disrepair and wasn't used again until the American Revolution. Continental Congress authorized funds for the building of two fortifications on the Georgia coast, one in Savannah and the other at the neglected fort. Over fifty men deployed to the fort and it was soon back in working order.

Several skirmishes were fought with the British forces and the fort finally fell into British hands on January 10, 1779. The fort was renamed Fort George were it remained under their control until they abandoned it in 1782. It soon fell into disrepair once more.

The fort was then commissioned again into working order by the War of 1812 by American forces. It remained under construction until after the war was over were it was left unfinished and abandoned once more.

By the time the Civil War started, the fort had long since been abandoned, and once more, the sleeping little fort was refurbished and plunged into war. It saw no action this time and was soon left once more to the dustbin of history.

Today, Fort Morris Historic Site is under the care of the National Park Services and is continually being preserved for generations to come and bear witness to the histories and horrors of our burgeoning nations many wars. Earthworks remain in place and have been reconstructed from original blueprints and maps.

A museum on the grounds holds rare artifacts unearthed from the battle grounds and surrounding fortifications. Visitors can pay the $4 entrance fee and observe some of the historical remnants that were found at the park. A video presentation offers guests a tour of the forts historical past. Several informative kiosks guide visitors around the museum and grounds, telling the tale of this amazing South Georgia state park and historic site.

For more information on directions to the park, hours of operations and other park amenities, visit the official Georgia state park website here.