Fort Phoenix State Reservation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort Phoenix State Reservation |
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Aerial view of the reservation;
Fort Phoenix's remnant ramparts may be seen in the foreground at the bottom of the image |
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 Fort Phoenix State Reservation
Location in Massachusetts
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| Location | Fairhaven, Bristol, Massachusetts, United States |
| Area | 28 acres (11 ha) |
| Elevation | 7 ft (2.1 m) |
| Established | Early 1960s |
| Governing body | Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation |
| Website | Fort Phoenix State Reservation |
Fort Phoenix State Reservation is a fun public park located on Buzzards Bay in Fairhaven, Massachusetts. This park covers about 28 acres. It's right next to the old Fort Phoenix, which is a famous landmark from the American Revolutionary War. The park gets its name from this historic fort.
Did you know that the first naval battle of the Revolutionary War happened offshore from here? You might even see the Elizabeth Islands from the fort's old walls! The state park is looked after by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. However, the historic Fort Phoenix itself is managed separately by the town of Fairhaven.
History of Fort Phoenix Park
The fort was used for military purposes until 1876. After that, the beach at the reservation became very popular in the 1880s. Visitors would even take a trolley from New Bedford to get there!
How the Park Was Created
The United States Government decided to sell the property. In 1925, a woman named Cara Broughton bought it for $5,000. Cara was the daughter of Henry Huttleston Rogers, a famous businessman from Fairhaven who worked with the Standard Oil Company.
Cara then gave Fort Phoenix to the Town of Fairhaven so it could be a public park for everyone to enjoy. Fort Phoenix was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. This means it's recognized as an important historical site.
Fun Things to Do at the Park
Fort Phoenix State Reservation has lots of cool things for you to do!
- Swimming: The park has a half-mile long beachfront where you can swim in the water.
- Hiking: You can explore the area by going for a hike.
- Picnicking: It's a great spot to have a picnic with your family and friends.
- Sports: There are tennis and basketball courts if you want to play some games.
- Playground: Kids can have fun on the playground.
- Facilities: The park also has outdoor showers, grills for cooking, and restrooms that are easy for everyone to use.
