Fort Gaines has stood guard at the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. Its location on the eastern tip of Dauphin Island gives visitors panoramic views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Most associate the history of Fort Gaines with the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864 when Union Admiral David G. Farragut issued his immortal command, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!” The Union soldiers laid siege and Fort Gaines surrendered on August 8, 1864.
If only the fort’s walls could talk, they would tell tales of the soldiers’ lives, including battles fought against the elements and foes.
You don’t have to imagine talking walls to learn about the history here. The original cannons from the Civil War battle are still on the property. You’ll also find a blacksmith shop, kitchens, a museum, gift shop and tunnels to explore. If you plan your visit for November 14, you can experience a day in the life of a 1940s soldier at The Fall Campaign WWII Living History Event. The event features authentic camping, blacksmithing in the original blacksmith shop, and drills throughout the day.
Storms over the decades have proved harmful to the masonry of the old fort. Repairs have been made, but it remains under threat of erosion – so much so that the fort was designated as one of the Eleven Most Endangered Historic Sites in America in 2011.
You’ll find the Fort Gaines Historic Site at the number 7 on our interactive map.