Fort Morris Historic Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Fort Morris Historic Site
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Earthworks at Fort Morris
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 Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
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| Nearest city | Midway, Georgia |
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| Area | 7 acres (2.8 ha) |
| NRHP reference No. | 70000208 |
| Added to NRHP | May 13, 1970 |
Fort Morris Historic Site is a special state park in Liberty County, Georgia. This historic fort sits right on a bend in the Medway River. It was super important for protecting southeast Georgia for many years.
The fort played a big role in different wars, starting in 1741 and lasting until 1865. These wars included the French and Indian War, the American Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the American Civil War. The historic site covers about 70 acres and is about 23 feet above sea level.
On May 13, 1970, Fort Morris was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's a very important historical spot!
Contents
Fort Morris: A Look Back in Time
Early Forts and Conflicts (1741-1758)
The very first fort on this spot was built in 1741. It was used during the French and Indian War. Its job was to protect a large farm, called a plantation, owned by Captain Mark Carr.
On March 18, 1741, the plantation was attacked. A group of Native Americans, who were allies with the Spanish forces in Florida, raided the area. Several soldiers defending the fort were killed. The attackers took items from the fort and plantation using a large boat.
Another fort was built here in 1756. Local people wanted it because they were being attacked by Creek Indian groups during the French and Indian War. This fort was made bigger in 1758. It helped protect a new town called Sunbury, which was built on Captain Carr's land.
Fort Morris in the American Revolution
The need to defend the Medway River and Sunbury became important again when the American Revolution began. British forces attacked Fort Morris on January 9, 1779. They took control of the fort the very next day.
The British renamed it Fort George. They stayed there until September 1779. After the Revolution, the fort slowly fell apart and wasn't used much.
Fort Defiance and the War of 1812
The need to protect Sunbury and the river came up again during the War of 1812. A new fort, called Fort Defiance, started being built in 1814. It was on the same spot where Fort Morris used to be.
However, the war ended before Fort Defiance was finished. So, it was left incomplete.
Fort Morris and the American Civil War
Fort Morris and Sunbury played a smaller role in the American Civil War. A small group of Confederate soldiers were stationed in Sunbury. They might have used the fort for defense.
Later, during General William T. Sherman's famous Sherman's March to the Sea, many Union soldiers came to the area. In 1864, they removed some cannons from the fort. These cannons were taken to Union-controlled forts along the Atlantic coast.
Visiting Fort Morris Historic Site Today
Fort Morris Historic Site is owned by the state of Georgia. It helps preserve the historical remains of the many forts that once stood here. You can still see the old earthworks (dirt walls and mounds) at the park. These show how big the fort was when it protected the Medway River.
Fun Events at the Park
The park holds three special historical events each year:
- A Labor Day celebration includes tours. Guides dress in old military uniforms. They even fire muskets and cannons!
- In November, there's a re-enactment of Colonel McIntosh's stand from 1778. This event includes weapon firings and a mock battle.
- A Colonial Christmas is celebrated at the fort. You can enjoy old-fashioned treats, listen to music, and gather around a bonfire.
Park Facilities and Nature
The park has a visitor's center. Inside, you can watch a film and see exhibits about the fort's history. There's also a nature trail and picnic areas for visitors.
The Pioneer Campground is available for groups who want to camp. A 1-mile nature trail lets you see the local wildlife and plants. It's a great way to explore the area's natural beauty!
