Fort Stansbury facts for kids

Fort Stansbury was an important frontier military outpost built in Florida. It was first used during the Seminole War (from 1835 to 1842) and later played a role in the Civil War. The fort was located south of Tallahassee, Florida, and a few miles north of Wakulla Springs. It was also inland from St. Marks, Florida. This fort served as the main base for the U.S. 3rd Infantry Regiment.

What Was Fort Stansbury?

Fort Stansbury was a military base created to help protect settlers and control the area during a time of conflict. It was a key part of the American frontier, which was the edge of settled land. Outposts like Fort Stansbury were crucial for military operations and for keeping peace in new territories.

Building a Frontier Fort

The way Fort Stansbury was built was typical for forts back then. It likely used blockhouses, which are strong, small forts designed for defense. These buildings were often made from split pine trees, which were common in the area. This type of construction made the fort sturdy and quick to build.

Why Pine Trees?

Pine trees were a great choice for building forts in Florida. They were easy to find and strong enough to provide good protection. Soldiers would cut down the trees, split them into logs, and then use them to build the walls and structures of the fort.

Fort Stansbury During the Seminole Wars

The fort was established during the Seminole Wars, which were a series of conflicts between the United States and the Seminole people in Florida. These wars were fought over land and control of the territory. Fort Stansbury helped the U.S. Army manage its operations in the region.

Its Role in the Conflict

During the Seminole War, Fort Stansbury served as a strategic point. It allowed soldiers to patrol the surrounding areas and respond to threats. It also provided a safe place for troops and supplies.

Early Leadership at the Fort

The first commander of Fort Stansbury was Lt. Colonel Ethan Allen Hitchcock. He took command in October 1842 and led the fort until January 13, 1843. Hitchcock was an important military figure who later became a general. His leadership was vital during the fort's early days.

Fort Stansbury and the Civil War

Even after the Seminole Wars ended, Fort Stansbury continued to be important. It was also used during the American Civil War, which took place from 1861 to 1865. This shows how valuable its location was for military purposes over many years.

A Strategic Location

The fort's location near Tallahassee and St. Marks made it important during both conflicts. It was close to key transportation routes and population centers. This allowed it to support different military efforts throughout its history.