Fort Casey (Florida) facts for kids
Fort Casey was an old military base in Florida. It was located on Useppa Island in Charlotte Harbor. This fort was active in the mid-1800s. It was named after Captain John Charles Casey from the U.S. Army.
Contents
History of Fort Casey
Why Fort Casey Was Built
In 1848, the U.S. War Department decided to build a new fort. They wanted it in Charlotte Harbor, Florida. The fort's main purpose was to help move Native American groups from the area.
Choosing the Location
Major W. W. Morris from Fort Brooke and Captain John Charles Casey looked for the best spot. They explored the area in November 1848. By January 1849, they suggested Giuseppe Island. Today, this island is known as Useppa Island. They believed it was the perfect place for the new fort.
Life at the Fort
Fort Casey officially opened on January 3, 1850. Brevet Major R.C. Gatlin was the first commander. About 108 soldiers were stationed there. These men were from the 7th Infantry Regiment. Their companies were led by Lieutenant E.D. Stockton and Lieutenant E. Van Dorn. C.H. Crane worked as the fort's doctor.
Changes in Command
On April 7, 1850, Brevet Major T.H. Holmes took over command. Soon after, the 7th Infantry soldiers left. They moved to Missouri. About 60 soldiers from the 4th Artillery replaced them.
Closing the Fort
The fort did not stay open for long. On November 10, 1850, General Thomas Childs arrived. He was from the 1st Artillery. General Childs gave the order to close Fort Casey.
Notable Officers at Fort Casey
Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson
A famous officer, Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson, was at Fort Casey. He was a young lieutenant at the time. This was in 1850, before he became a well-known general.
