FORT
PULASKI
"You might as well bombard the Rocky Mountains..." -General
Totten, U.S. Chief of Engineers
When completed in 1847 with its 25 million bricks
and walls 7.5 feet thick, FORT PULASKI was the ultimate defense system of its day.
Part of a series of forts which protected major seaports from foreign attack, the
stronghold would not be tested until the Civil War. Seized by Georgia state troops early
in the war, the fort was besieged by Federal forces. Here on April 11, 1862, defense
strategy changed worldwide when Union rifled cannon, firing from more than a mile away on
Tybee Island, first over came a masonry fortification.
The effectiveness of rifled artillery, which fired a bullet-shaped projectile with great accuracy at long range, was clearly demonstrated. After only 30 hours of bombardment, the walls were breached and the Confederates surrendered. The fall of FORT PULASKI tightened the Union blockade of southern ports and kept Savannah from exporting cotton and importing military supplies and civilian goods so vital to the Confederacy. But more importantly, the success of the new weapon marked the end of the era of masonry fortifications.
The commander of the Union forces captured the military world's surprise in these words... "The result of this bombardment must cause...a change in the construction of fortifications as radical as that foreshadowed in naval architecture by the conflict between the Monitor and Merrimac. No works of stone or brick can resist the impact of rifled artillery of heavy caliber." Major General David Hunter, U.S. Army.
HOW TO GET HERE
To visit FORT PULASKI National Monument, follow U.S. 80 East
toward Tybee Island. The Monument entrance is located approximately 15 miles east of
Savannah.
MONUMENT FEATURES - The monument offers an introductory video, exhibits and a bookstore. Park Rangers are on duty to answer your questions.
The fort is a remarkable well-preserved example of 19th century military architecture. Located a the mouth of the Savannah River, FORT PULASKI provides views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as scenic salt marshes which cover much of the Monument's 5600 acres. Audiostations within the fort offer brief explanations of the history and significance of the area. At certain times of the year, special programs are conducted.
The monument also provides other recreational opportunities. Nature trails, a picnic area and a boat launching ramp are available. Most facilities are accessible. Please inquire at the visitor center.
HOURS OF OPERATION
- Visitor Center 8:30 am - 5:00 pm daily- Fort Pulaski 8:30 am - 5:15 pm daily
FORT
ADMISSION CHARGED
For seasonal park hour changes and special event information:
- Superintendent
- FORT PULASKI National Monument
- P.O. Box 30757
- Savannah, Georgia 31410-0757
- 912-786-5787
To make a reservation for OCEAN PLAZA BEACH RESORT choose the -Reservation- option or to order a brochure choose the -Brochure- option. You may also email us at kingisle@aol.com for further information.