Historic Fort Gaines
As Admiral Farragut’s fleet of 14 frigates and four iron-clad monitors prepared to engage Forts Gaines and Morgan on August 5, 1864, Colonel Charles Anderson and his 800 Confederate troops were ordered to hold Fort Gaines at any cost. The Union monitor Tecumseh struck a torpedo and sank immediately. Seeing the screw propellers of the sinking Tecumseh turning in the air, Admiral Farragut bellowed, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!” Immediately after gaining safety in Mobile Bay, Farragut’s attention turned upon Fort Gaines. On August 8, Fort Gaines surrendered.
Getting There & Details
- Admission
- Admission charged
- Hours
- Open 9-5; group tour by appt.
- Address
- 51 Bienville Blvd.
- Phone
- 251-861-6992
- Website
- www.dauphinisland.org
- Map
- Get Directions →
More Things to Do
Audubon Bird Sanctuary
160-acre sanctuary with trail system to freshwater lake, dune system, gulf beaches, swamp, hardwood forest.…
Learn more →Dauphin Island Campground
A white, sun-washed beach with grass covered dunes, gentle salt-scented breezes and the natural laid-back…
Learn more →Dauphin Island Cruises
Cruising excursions around parts of Dauphin Island. See from the water: Indian Shell Mounds, Fort…
Learn more →