Fort Gaines Historic Site

The site consists of five buildings inside the exterior walls, tunnel systems and corner bastions with spiral stone staircases to the gun placements above. Fort Gaines displays cannons that were used in the battle and the anchor from Admiral Farragut's flagship USS Hartford, as well as maintaining an operational blacksmith shop and kitchens. One of the best preserved 19th century shoreline fortifications, it is located within feet of the Gulf of Mexico. Post-Civil War modifications include "disappearing guns" and bunker systems constructed during the Spanish American War. Guided tours are available with advance notification and include cannon firing, blacksmithing, etc. An excellent Museum portrays the history of Dauphin Island including its French colony in the 1600s and its role as Capital of the Louisiana Territory.