Find Hotels Near Old Fort Jackson Tybee Island

Old Fort Jackson is an incredible historic landmark in Tybee Island, Georgia. It has been standing on the banks of the Savannah River since 1808 and is one of the oldest brick fortifications in America. The fort was built to protect Savannah from naval attack and was named after James Jackson, a former Governor of Georgia. Old Fort Jackson is unique because it is the only remaining 19th century fortress that remains completely intact. The fort has walls up to 35 feet high, two levels of defensive structures, an underground bombproof magazine, and multiple cannons inside and out. Visitors today can still experience what life was like during the Civil War as they explore this incredible structure.

The history of Old Fort Jackson spans over two centuries and includes some interesting stories. During its early years, it served as a base for both Confederate and Union troops throughout the Civil War. In 1862, a powerful Union gunboat called the USS Wachusett fired at the fort’s walls during a failed attempt to take control of Savannah. Later in the war, Confederate forces used cannons stored in Old Fort Jackson to fire on Union ships that had occupied Tybee Island just off the coast. When World War I began, Old Fort Jackson became an important training camp for soldiers preparing for combat overseas.

Today, visitors can explore this incredible historic site and learn about its rich history through guided tours led by knowledgeable park rangers and volunteer guides who are passionate about teaching others about our nation’s past. The fort also houses exhibits showcasing weaponry from different eras including muskets, swords and artillery shells from World War I as well as uniforms worn by soldiers during the Civil War period. There are also various interactive displays including reenactments depicting military drills conducted by troops stationed at Old Fort Jackson throughout its history.

This impressive landmark offers visitors an amazing opportunity to step back in time and gain insight into our nation’s storied past while enjoying spectacular views of Savannah’s waterfront landscape from atop its towering walls. The site continues to be an important part of Tybee Island’s culture and reminds us all of our country's long history of courage, resilience and patriotism embodied within these ancient walls of Old Fort Jackson.