Early morning, April 12, 1861, the Charleston Harbor became a battle ground as Confederate Troops fired on Fort Sumter, trying to reclaim the fort. On April 14, the Union finally gave up the Fort. This was the site of the beginning of the Civil War, and today, one can take a ferry ride to discover this almost 200 year old fort and discover where the Civil War began.
Getting to Fort Sumter
The Fort is only accesible by ferry from Patriot's Point or downtown Charleston. It sits in between the city of Charleston and the home of Boone Hall, Mount Pleasant. The ferry ride to Fort Sumter is great for families, and be sure to be on the look out for dolphins.
For those boarding te ferry at Liberty Square in Charleston, take some time to look around the Fort Sumter Educational Ferry. Learn the history, see artifacts, and discover what happened before the attack.
For those boarding at Patriot's Point, definitely take some time to walk through the gift shop and go on the USS Yorktown, see the Cold War Memorial, the Vietnam Support Base, and take a moment to think of those who have served and still serve in the American Armed Forces. While walking around, say a brief thankyou for your service to the many vets who volunteer their time at Patriot's Point. This is one place that is a must visit for families, whether it's after visiting Fort Sumter or before.
Visiting Fort Sumter
While visiting the fort, Union soldiers may be roaming about and might even entertain with some fife and drums and a gun and cannon demonstration. If desired, go on a tour with a ranger, if not, just take time to tour without one. Go around the fort and especially on top of the fort, where one can enjoy views in all directions of Charlston. Of course, Fort Sumter is not all cannons and Union soldiers, there is also an inside museum to see.
Fort Sumter Museum
Once inside the museum, take time to view the numerous artifacts dating back to the construction of the fort. The original South Carolina State flag is also on display, along with a large collection of original Civil War memorabilia. One of the most interesting exhibits has to do with the numerous photos of South Carolina before and after being attacked. The pictures of Columbia are unbelievable and to see the devestation that the war had on the south depicted in photos really brings how hard it was to rebuild to light.
After exploring the museum, take some time to walk around the fort some more. Especially on the upper level. The upper level does have a trail with historic marks to read along the way. It also has grassy areas for kids to play, but do be careful. There are no walls and no child safety bars to keep them from falling, so take caution and be sure not to let young children run to or around the edges.
This is an enjoyable historic experience for many. It is a well laid out fort, perfect for kids to play on (espcially on the ground level), and full of history. It is a historic landmark in Charleston, and when one thinks of Charleston, Fort Sumter and the Civil War do come to mind. So take some time to learn the true history and take a step back to April 1861.