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HISTORY

Citrus trees, Native Americans and a-once-emerging fishing industry are scattered throughout the rich history of the Alabama Gulf Coast. An area that was the site of the first Indian village in America to be visited by explorers has since seen pirates, a civil war and the construction of the Intracoastal Waterway. Paying tribute to the past has enabled this destination to offer a unique vacation experience for history buffs.

Damn the Torpedoes

The Battle of Mobile Bay Civil War Trail comprise more than a dozen sites throughout Baldwin and Mobile Counties, where action occurred during the both the Battle of Mobile Bay and the Overland Campaign. The 90 mile trail consists of 18 interpretative site signs that tell the stories of ship captains, fort commanders and common fighting men through first-hand accounts, historical references and detailed illustrations.

This trail is a joint partnership between the Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Mobile Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more trail information, visit www.battleofmobilebay.com.

Still Guarding Mobile Bay

Fort Morgan Historic Site stands as a living history lesson of the fort’s pivotal role in the Civil War. Constructed between 1819 and 1834, this 479-acre site was the site of Admiral David Farragut’s famous command—“Damn the torpedoes. Full speed ahead,” moments before he led his troops into the Battle of Mobile Bay on August 5, 1864. After a two-week siege, Union forces overtook the fort, which was later America’s largest permanent military outpost between 1900 and 1923. The fort that once served during the Spanish-American War and both world wars now offers visitors a realistic look into the past. Meanwhile, n eighboring Fort Gaines Historic Site is just a short ferry ride away.

History in a New Light

During the summer months of June and July, Fort Morgan offers guided candlelight tours every Tuesday night. A uniformed interpreter leads individuals throughout the fort telling them about this historic site’s past. For more information, call the fort at 251-540-7127.

Local Museums with Local Perspective

Two quaint local museums offer a unique perspective of the area’s rich history, dating back to the first Native American inhabitants of the island. The Gulf Shores Museum hosts several special exhibits, films and events throughout the year while the Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum houses artifacts specific to the area’s Native American and fishing heritages. Several families of early fisherman donated collectibles that are on display daily.

Rare Shipwreck Treasures Sail Into Local Museum

Set sail for a one-of-a-kind adventure. Shipwreck! Treasures from the SS Republic will take you on an amazing journey 1700 feet below the surface of the Atlantic to the wreck site of the SS Republic, the greatest shipwreck treasure of the Civil War era. En route from New York to New Orleans in October 1865, the ship sank with a fortune in coins and an enormous cargo of goods. For more information, visit www.baldwincountyheritagemuseum.com.

Soar into the Skies

Just a short car ride away in Pensacola, Florida, the National Museum of Naval Aviation showcases an extensive collection of over 150 aircraft representing every military branch. Earn your wings in the flight simulators, or strap in for a wide ride thanks to an IMAX film. Don’t forget to visit the authentic Cubi Bar Café for refreshing meal. Experience hands-on history—free of charge—at this museum, located on the Pensacola Naval Air Station. For more information, visit www.naval-air.org.

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