Fort San Fernando De Las Barrancas facts for kids

Fort San Fernando De Las Barrancas was an old Spanish fort located in what is now Memphis, Tennessee. It was built in May 1795. The fort had about 150 soldiers. Their job was to protect land that Spain claimed. This land was near a place called the Fourth Chickasaw Bluff.

Spain wanted to stop the United States from expanding its territory further west. This fort was a key part of their plan. However, Spain later gave up its claim to this area in a deal called Pinckney's Treaty in 1795. Even so, Spanish soldiers stayed at the fort until 1797 or 1798. Then, they burned the fort down. After that, they built a new fort called Fort Esperanza across the river, near where Marion, Arkansas is today.

What Was Fort San Fernando?

Fort San Fernando De Las Barrancas was a military base. It was built by the country of Spain. The fort stood on a high cliff overlooking the Mississippi River. This spot was very important for controlling river travel. It was also a good place to watch for anyone trying to move into the area.

Why Was the Fort Built?

Spain had a big empire in the Americas. They wanted to keep control of their lands. The United States was a new country and was growing fast. Many American settlers were moving west. Spain worried about this "westward expansion." They wanted to stop the U.S. from taking more land.

The fort was built to protect Spain's claim to the land. It was also meant to show the U.S. that Spain was serious. The 150 soldiers, called a garrison, were there to defend the fort. They were ready to fight if needed.

The Importance of Chickasaw Bluff

The fort was located at the Fourth Chickasaw Bluff. A "bluff" is a steep cliff or hill. This bluff was a natural high point. It offered a great view of the Mississippi River. Controlling this bluff meant controlling who could travel on the river. It was a very strategic spot for trade and defense.

What Was Pinckney's Treaty?

Even though Spain built the fort, things changed quickly. In 1795, Spain and the United States signed a deal. It was called Pinckney's Treaty. This treaty set the border between Spanish lands and U.S. lands. In the treaty, Spain agreed to give up its claim to the area where the fort stood. This meant the land now belonged to the United States.

What Happened to the Fort?

Even after the treaty, Spanish soldiers stayed at Fort San Fernando for a few more years. They finally left in 1797 or 1798. Before they left, they burned the fort. This was a common practice. It prevented the fort from being used by an enemy. After burning it, they moved across the Mississippi River. There, they built a new fort called Fort Esperanza. This new fort was in what is now Arkansas.