America’s Historic Forts

Fortifications played a vital role in American history. From the colonial period through the Civil War.

The first Europeans built picket stockades to defend against Indian raids. As more colonizers came, stronger and larger forts were needed to defend against the muskets and cannons of other Europeans.

The construction of forts not only helped in warfare, but also allowed different nations to lay claim over a geographic area.

Castillo De San Marcos in St. Augustine Florida is the oldest masonry fort in the United States

Colonial America was Peppered with Fortifications

For several hundred years the strategic waterways and woodlands of North America were dotted with forts made of wood, earth and masonry. Some were destroyed in battle, while others were left to ruin as the technology of war rendered these structures obsolete.

Many forts still remain today in various states of repair. Visiting these ruins, restorations, and reconstructions of America’s historic forts is a great way to learn about history and let the imagination transport you to the past.

Fort St. Frederic was a French fort built on Lake Champlain. It was destroyed during the French and Indian War – only the foundation remains.

Fort Pulaski was besieged during the Civil War. The attack marked the first time rifled cannons were used against a masonry fort.

Fort Monroe is the largest stone fort ever built in the United States. During the Civil War it was used as a prison for Jefferson Davis.