Fort Johnson (South Carolina) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Fort Johnson
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The Old Magazine, photographed in 2011.
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 Location in South Carolina
Location in the United States
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| Location | East end of Ft. Johnson Road, in South Carolina Department of Natural Resources compound, James Island, South Carolina |
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| Area | 90 acres (36 ha) |
| Built | 1765 |
| NRHP reference No. | 72001197 |
| Added to NRHP | September 14, 1972 |
Fort Johnson is a historic site located on James Island, South Carolina. It sits at the entrance to Charleston Harbor. This fort played a key role in several important moments in American history. It was a military base for over 150 years.
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Fort Johnson's History
Fort Johnson was first built in 1704. It was named after Sir Nathaniel Johnson, a governor of South Carolina. The fort was meant to protect the city of Charleston from attacks by sea. It was a very important spot for defending the harbor.
Role in the American Revolution
Fort Johnson saw action during the American Revolutionary War. In 1775, South Carolina patriots took control of the fort. This was one of the first acts of defiance against British rule in the state. The fort's cannons were used to fire on British ships. This helped to keep Charleston safe during the early parts of the war.
The War of 1812
The fort was also used during the War of 1812. It helped to defend Charleston Harbor once again. While no major battles happened at the fort during this war, it remained an active military post. It was always ready to protect the city.
American Civil War Beginnings
Fort Johnson is famous for its role in the American Civil War. On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces fired on Fort Sumter. This marked the start of the Civil War. Some of these first shots came from cannons at Fort Johnson. The fort was a key position for the Confederates throughout the war. It helped them control Charleston Harbor.
The Old Magazine
One of the most important parts of Fort Johnson is the Old Magazine. This building was used to store gunpowder. It is one of the oldest surviving structures at the site. The Old Magazine was built around 1765. It is a reminder of the fort's long history.
Fort Johnson Today
After the Civil War, Fort Johnson was no longer a main military fort. Today, the site is home to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. It is also a place where people can learn about history. The fort and the Old Magazine were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. This helps protect the site for future generations.
