160-acre sanctuary with trail system to freshwater lake, dune system, gulf beaches, swamp, hardwood forest. Dauphin Island was selected as one of top birding locations in nation.
Historic Fort Gaines
Street address:
51 Bienville Blvd.
Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Phone:
251-861-6992
Fax:
251-861-5092
Schedule:
Open 9–5.
Mailing:
109 Bienville Blvd.
Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Admission:
Admission charged
As Admiral Farragut's fleet of 14 frigates and four iron-clad monitors prepared to engage Forts Gaines and Morgan on August 5, 1864, Colonel Charles Anderson and his 800 Confederate troops were ordered to hold Fort Gaines at any cost. The Union monitor Tecumseh struck a torpedo and sank immediately. Seeing the screw propellers of the sinking Tecumseh turning in the air, Admiral Farragut bellowed, "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!" Immediately after gaining safety in Mobile Baygroup, child Farragut's attention turned upon Fort Gaines. On August 8 Fort Gaines surrendered."
Accessibility:
Personal Checks, Travelers Checks
Related attractions
Cruising excursions around parts of Dauphin Island. See from the water: Indian Shell Mounds, Fort Gaines, shrimp boats in Mobile Bay, Sand Island Lighthouse, dolphins at play in the Gulf of Mexico.
850-ft. pier is one of only 2 deep-water gulf piers in Alabama. Excellent fishing including shark, king mackerel, speckled trout, flounder, red fish; great crabbing. Rental rods and tackle bait available. No alcohol permitted.
Golf, swimming, tennis, dining. Each hole offers spectacular view of Gulf of Mexico. Scenic course perfect for duffer and pro alike. Uncrowded greens, relaxed pace.
Number of holes: 18
Par: 72
Championship Yardage: 6620 yds.
Customized private charter cruise aboard Quest 41-foot Hatteras Sportfish. See dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish, lighthouse and Intracoastal Waterway. Specializing in half-day, full-day and overnight cruises. Fishing trips also available.
Prehistoric Indian mounds with group tours and lectures on historic burials, food preparation and use of plants and animals for food and medicine. Indian and French historic lore and legend.