Fort Frederica National Monument is dedicated to the fierce battles between British and Spanish forces that shaped Georgia’s dynamic history. In the early 1700s, the territory between British-colonized South Carolina and Spanish-colonized Florida became a theater of war for the historic colonial rivals. Learn about the military outpost that was built here to protect the British colony from Spanish troops.
Begin your visit to Fort Frederica National Monument by checking out the Visitor Center. Take a seat at the theater and watch the 23-minute presentation, History Uncovered, which gives an outline of the site’s history. Learn about the battles that took place on St. Simons Island on July 7, 1742 and the impact these British victories had over the future of Georgia.
Explore the site on foot and make your way around the remains of the old fort complex. Ranger-led tours are held daily and highlight some of the historical markers and archaeological remnants throughout the site. Alternatively, download an audio tour on your handheld device. Find out about the military strategies used at the fort. The area was fortified with earthen ramparts and a palisade wall. Watchmen overlooking the Frederica River monitored ship transportation.
Learn about General James Oglethorpe and his soldiers, who drove back Spanish forces in 1742 at the Battle of Gully Hole Creek and the Battle of Bloody Marsh. Drive south for 15 minutes to Bloody Marsh Battleground Site and visit the memorial marker. It is believed that the Spanish forces ended their campaign after the defeat at Bloody Marsh.
If you are interested in learning more, stop at the bookstore within the Visitor Center and pick up some reading material. The Visitor Center also has drink vending machines and public restrooms.
Fort Frederica National Monument is located in the heart of St. Simons Island. The site is open daily, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Admission, presentations and ranger-led tours are free however, you will need to book in advance for group tours.
