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Historic Fort Morgan offers reenactments and living history demonstrations at various times throughout the year.

It’s more than just another day at the beach when you make a daytrip or weekend getaway to the Alabama Gulf Coast for a homeschool lesson in history. Stepped in history, the Gulf Coast has a rich legacy of military fortifications, heritage museums and even a restored railroad depot.

Some of the most notable battle cries took place along the Gulf Coast, including Union Admiral David Farragut’s famous declaration, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead” during the Civil War’s Battle of Mobile Bay. Fort Morgan was active during four wars, and if you plan your trip just right, your students will get a living history lesson. Fort Gaines is also located a short drive from Gulf Shores.

A history lesson isn’t complete without a drive to the National Naval Aviation Museum in nearby Pensacola, Florida. Students can get up close to aircraft retired from battle. More than 150 restored aircraft represent the Navy, Marine Corps and the Coast Guard.

Don’t forget to include a stop at the Foley Railroad Museum located in the restored L&N Railroad Depot. The museum holds relics of Baldwin County’s railroad days and includes a large model train display.

There are plenty of lessons to be learned with a homeschool vacation in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Come experience a whole new state of discovery on the Alabama Gulf Coast.