Fort King George: Exploring the Historic Ruins in Savannah, Georgia
Nestled along the banks of the Savannah River in Savannah, Georgia, Fort King George stands as a testament to the area’s rich history. Built in 1721 to protect the British colony of Georgia from Spanish attack, the fort served as a base of operations for British colonial forces until 1736. Today, the ruins of the fort provide visitors with a glimpse into the past and a chance to explore the area’s fascinating colonial history.
The History of Fort King George
Fort King George was initially constructed in 1721 to help protect the new British colony of Georgia from Spanish forces. Located in the heavily-wooded area that is now present-day Savannah, the fort was built with the intention of providing a safe haven for colonists in the event of a Spanish attack. The fort was named after King George I of England, and quickly became a major hub for British forces in the region.
During the next 15 years, Fort King George was defended by a number of British forces, including the Georgia Regiment and the 42nd Regiment of Foot. The fort was also home to a number of prominent military personnel, including General James Oglethorpe, who was appointed as the commander of the fort in 1733.
In 1736, the fort was abandoned by the British and subsequently destroyed in the same year. The ruins of the fort remained largely untouched until the 1950s when the site was listed as a National Historic Landmark. Today, the fort is open to the public and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the area’s colonial history.
Exploring the Ruins of Fort King George
Visitors to Fort King George will be able to explore the ruins of the original fort. The site is open year-round and offers a variety of activities and programs for visitors. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the ruins, which includes exploring the fort’s original walls, barracks, and other structures.
In addition to self-guided tours, visitors can also take part in guided tours and educational programs. Guests can learn about the history of the fort and the region’s colonial history. Guided tours are available by appointment only, so visitors should plan ahead.
Fort King George is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of birds. Visitors can take part in bird-watching and nature walks to observe the area’s diverse wildlife.
In addition to exploring the ruins of the fort, visitors can also take part in a variety of other activities in the surrounding area. Visitors can take part in a variety of outdoor activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The area is also home to a number of historic sites, such as the historic Davenport House and the Wormsloe Plantation.
Visiting Fort King George
Fort King George is located in Savannah, Georgia, and is open year-round to the public. The fort is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission to the fort is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $3 for children.
Conclusion
Fort King George is a unique and historic site in Savannah, Georgia. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fort and learn about the area’s colonial history. The fort is open year-round and offers a variety of activities and programs for visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring the fort’s ruins or taking part in outdoor activities, Fort King George is a great place to visit.