The Storied History of Fort Morgan

Fort Morgan is one of Alabama’s many historical sites. It’s located at the mouth of Mobile Bay, Alabama. Considered an architectural marvel for its star shape, Fort Morgan has a long and interesting history in which native Alabamans take pride.

The fort was built after the War of 1812, making it almost 200 years old. After this war, the United States government funded a national campaign to enhance its coastal defenses. Fort Morgan was designed to control access to Mobile Bay, which was an area highly vulnerable to infiltration from enemy ships. The fort was also designed to withstand long sieges if necessary. It was architecturally impressive, but by the time the Civil War came, it was technologically out of date. Union Admiral Farragut breached the fort’s defenses in 1864, and it then became a Union base for the rest of the war

In the 1890s, the United States government made another motion to improve its defenses. In a project known as the Endicott program, Fort Morgan was enhanced. New weapons and weapon positions were added. With continued improvements, Fort Morgan served as a defensive base for the United States in the Spanish-American War and in World War I. In World War I, the fort served as a training base for anti-aircraft batteries.

In 1924, the fort was abandoned, but the army returned to it in 1942 when World War II was underway. An airfield was constructed, and new weapons were installed. By the end of World War II, the army had no more use for Fort Morgan, and turned it over to the State of Alabama.

In 1960, Fort Morgan was designated a National Historic Landmark. There are only around 2,500 National Historic Landmarks in the entire country, making Fort Morgan a site of unique historical value. The honor comes as no surprise considering the fort’s important participation in U.S. history stretches back almost two centuries.

Many old administrative buildings at Fort Morgan still stand today. The lighthouse keeper’s house is the oldest building, constructed in 1872. Several other buildings, like the senior staff building, were constructed before 1910 and remain standing.

Today, visitors to and residents of Alabama can explore Fort Morgan. The fort’s important contribution to the history of Alabama and the United States make this a unique and valuable opportunity. Visitors may explore alone or participate in a guided tour and enjoy the onsite museum. The surrounding natural beauty of the fort also offers opportunities for fishing, bird watching, picnics, and more.

Fort Morgan is one of Alabama’s treasures. Visit to learn more, and trust us – you’ll be considering relocation to our pristine beaches in no time.