History: Fort Gaines

Did you know that a major battle of the Civil War took place in Mobile? It happened at Fort Gaines, which is located along Dauphin Island. The Battle of Mobile Bay took place at Fort Gaines in 1864. The Battle of Mobile Bay was one of the biggest naval battles during the Civil War.

Joseph Everett, Park Ranger for Fort Gaines knows a lot about the history of Fort Gaines and the South. Everett said that the Battle of Mobile Bay was one of the toughest naval battles fought during that time. “Admiral Faragut, the admiral in charge of the federal fleet actually said it was the worst battle he had ever been in, and this was a man who actually fought in battles in the War of 1812, so he knew what battles were all about,” said Everett.

The fort was built as a U.S. coastal defense system to protect foreign powers from invading the Port of Mobile. It had everything that a soldier would need. There was a kitchen and pantry that was stocked with necessities, and there were living quarters for the soldiers. There was even a blacksmith shop. A blacksmith still works at Fort Gaines today, creating nails that visitors can buy for a dollar.

While the fort may now be deactivated, visitors can still get a glimpse of what life what like during wartime. Rooms have signs that tell what each was used for, and there are even letters and photos from the war. Visiting Fort Gaines is like stepping back in time and experiencing how the soldiers lived during the Battle of Mobile Bay.

Fort Gaines
51 Bienville Blvd.
Dauphin Island, Ala. 36528

Open: Everyday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
 (Summer months open until 6 p.m.)