Georgia - Fort Pulaski

Gary likes Forts so we take a drive out to see Fort  Pulaski

Construction began in 1829 and cost $1 Million and took 18 years to finish

It was considered invincible but before the armament was completed and not yet garrisoned, it was seized by the confederates in January of 1861.  However, by November, confederates intimidated by the Federal presence at Hilton Head, fled Tybee Island giving the Federals the only site from which the Fort could be taken.

Tucson is a little hesitant crossing the moat

Inside the Fort walls

The Surrender Room.  Quarters of the Confederate commanding officer, Col. Charles Olmstead. He surrendered to Union forces on April 11, 1862 after 30 hours of bombardment.

25 Million bricks were used to construct the fort.

The size of the Fort is incredible

Time to head upstairs to the top walls

Designed for 140 cannons, the Confederates only installed 60

A different way back down

and back over the moat.to the Demilune. 

We have just enough time to do a hike to try and see the Cockspur Island Lighthouse

It marks the south channel of the Savannah River and is 1 of only 5 surviving lighthouses in Georgia.  Though in direct line, it survived the bombardment of the Fort due the high trajectory needed for firing long ranges.

We were told we would have to be at the bridge out by 4:45 as the road closed at 5:00 and all the workers left.  We made it with minutes to spare!

Next stop - downtown Savannah