Fort Frederica National Monument : Interesting Facts, History & Travel Guide

Fort Frederica National Monument is a historical site located in the charming town of St. Simons Island, Georgia. The fort was established by the British in 1736 to protect their southern colony, and it played a crucial role in the defense against Spanish invasion during the War of Jenkins’ Ear.

Today, Fort Frederica is a popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into America’s colonial past. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fort, stroll through the charming town, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

In this blog post, we will delve into the interesting facts and history of Fort Frederica National Monument and provide you with a comprehensive travel guide to make the most of your visit. So let’s dive in!

Interesting facts about Fort Frederica National Monument

Here are some interesting facts about Fort Frederica National Monument:

1. The monument is located on St. Simons Island, Georgia, and was established in 1936 to preserve the remains of the 18th-century fort and town.
2. The fort was built in 1736 by James Oglethorpe, the founder of the Georgia colony, to defend against Spanish attacks from Florida.
3. During the mid-1700s, Fort Frederica was a thriving British colonial town, with a population of about 1,000 people. The town served as the southernmost point of British control in North America at the time.
4. The Battle of Bloody Marsh, fought in 1742, was a key victory for the British against the Spanish in the area. It effectively ended Spanish attempts to invade Georgia and secured British control of the region.
5. Today, the park features the archaeological remains of the fort and town, as well as several reconstructed buildings and structures that give visitors a glimpse into life in 18th-century Georgia.
6. The park also offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
7. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, deer, and a variety of bird species. The park is also home to the endangered gopher tortoise.
8. The park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including living history demonstrations, ranger-led tours, and seasonal celebrations.]
9. The park is open year-round, and there is no entrance fee. The park’s visitor center is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, and the park grounds are open from sunrise to sunset.
10. Fort Frederica National Monument is part of the National Park Service and is a designated National Historic Landmark.

Information & History of Fort Frederica National Monument

Fort Frederica National Monument is located on St. Simons Island, Georgia, and was established in 1936 to preserve the remains of the 18th-century fort and town. The fort and town were built by James Oglethorpe in 1736 to defend against Spanish attacks from Florida.

During the mid-1700s, Fort Frederica was a thriving British colonial town, with a population of about 1,000 people. The town served as the southernmost point of British control in North America at the time. In 1742, the Battle of Bloody Marsh was fought near the fort, which was a key victory for the British against the Spanish in the area. It effectively ended Spanish attempts to invade Georgia and secured British control of the region.

After the American Revolution, the town of Frederica began to decline, and by the mid-19th century, the town was abandoned. Many of the town’s buildings were dismantled or fell into disrepair over time. In the early 1900s, efforts began to preserve the remains of the fort and town, and in 1936, Fort Frederica was established as a national monument.

Fort Frederica National Monument is part of the National Park Service and is a designated National Historic Landmark.

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Travel Guide for Fort Frederica National Monument

If you’re planning a trip to Fort Frederica National Monument, here’s a travel guide to help you make the most of your visit:

1. Getting there: Fort Frederica National Monument is located on St. Simons Island, Georgia, which is about an hour and a half drive from Savannah, Georgia. The closest airport is Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, which is about a 15-minute drive from the park.
2. Visitor center: The park’s visitor center is the best place to start your visit. Here, you can watch a short film about the history of the fort and town, see exhibits about life in 18th-century Georgia, and get information about ranger-led tours and other activities.
3. Fort and town ruins: The park features the archaeological remains of the fort and town, including foundations of buildings and walls. You can explore the ruins on your own or take a ranger-led tour to learn more about the history of the site.
4. Reconstructed buildings: Several buildings in the town have been reconstructed, including the fort’s barracks, guardhouse, and magazine. These buildings give visitors a glimpse into what life was like in 18th-century Georgia.
5. Outdoor activities: The park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking trails, fishing, and birdwatching. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, deer, and a variety of bird species, so be sure to keep an eye out while you’re exploring.
6. Special events: The park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including living history demonstrations, ranger-led tours, and seasonal celebrations. Check the park’s website for a calendar of events.
7. Nearby attractions: St. Simons Island has a variety of other attractions to explore, including beaches, lighthouses, and historic sites. The nearby town of Brunswick also has a variety of restaurants and shops to visit.
8. Plan for the weather: Georgia can get hot and humid in the summer, so be sure to dress accordingly and bring plenty of water. The park is open year-round, but some outdoor activities may be limited during the winter months.
9. Admission: There is no admission fee to enter Fort Frederica National Monument. The park’s visitor center is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, and the park grounds are open from sunrise to sunset.

Overall, Fort Frederica National Monument is a fascinating and historic site to visit, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

FAQ About Fort Frederica National Monument

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Fort Frederica National Monument:

What is Fort Frederica National Monument?

Fort Frederica National Monument is a historic site located on St. Simons Island, Georgia, that preserves the remains of an 18th-century fort and town. The fort and town were built by James Oglethorpe in 1736 to defend against Spanish attacks from Florida.

What can you see at Fort Frederica National Monument?

Visitors to Fort Frederica National Monument can see the archaeological remains of the fort and town, including foundations of buildings and walls. Several buildings in the town have been reconstructed, including the fort’s barracks, guardhouse, and magazine. The park also offers hiking trails, fishing, and birdwatching.

How do I get to Fort Frederica National Monument?

Fort Frederica National Monument is located on St. Simons Island, Georgia, about an hour and a half drive from Savannah, Georgia. The closest airport is Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, which is about a 15-minute drive from the park.

Is there an admission fee to enter Fort Frederica National Monument?

No, there is no admission fee to enter Fort Frederica National Monument.

What are the park’s hours?

The park grounds are open from sunrise to sunset, and the visitor center is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Are there ranger-led tours available?

Yes, the park offers ranger-led tours of the fort and town ruins. Check the park’s website for tour schedules and availability.

What should I bring with me to Fort Frederica National Monument?

It’s a good idea to bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially in the summer months. Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the park’s ruins and trails.

Can I bring my pet to Fort Frederica National Monument?

Yes, pets are allowed in the park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pets are not allowed in the park’s buildings or on the hiking trails.

Are there any special events or programs at Fort Frederica National Monument?

Yes, the park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including living history demonstrations, ranger-led tours, and seasonal celebrations. Check the park’s website for a calendar of events.