Old Fort Jackson

Savannah, Georgia: Savannah’s location on the Atlantic makes it a prime port for the United States but what makes in a important sea town also makes it vulnerable to an attack from the sea. So to help combat a sea attack, Fort James Jackson was constructed up river to help defend the city.

Under threat of attack by either England or France, President Thomas Jefferson ordered the nation fortify its coast. So at the site of an old English battery from the American Revolution, Fort James Jackson was constructed. It took almost four years to complete the fort, opening in 1811. Combined with Fort Pulaski and Fort McAllister, Fort Jackson was the last line of defense for the city of Savannah.

Completed in time for the War of 1812, it did not see action until the Civil War. After being bombarded by Union ships, Fort Jackson was overtaken by the Union troops in 1864. It would be under Union control throughout the entire occupation of Savannah. Fort Jackson remained active for the US military until 1905. 

Fort Jackson was purchased by the City of Savannah in 1924. The Great Depression, World War II and other setbacks delayed the renovation of the fort for several decades. But in 1976, the fort had been restored and opened to the public as a living history museum. Today, the fort tells the story of military life of the city by walking in the footsteps of those brave soldiers who protects Savannah.

Old Fort Jackson is located a short drive outside the historic district. It is open daily and admission is $7.

Click on the photo above to view my Old Fort Jackson photo gallery.