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Plan a Road Trip > Explore America > National Parks > Fort Frederica National Monument |
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6515 N. Frederica Rd, St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Phone: 912-638-3639
Fax: 912-638-3639
Open All Year
Overview.0 In the early 18th century, the Spanish and British still struggled for control of the southern colonies. Florida remained in Spanish hands, while James Oglethorpe claimed Georgia for Britain. In 1736, the town of Frederica was built on St. Simons Island off the Georgia coast in order to discourage Spanish assault. Once a thriving British garrison, the fort fell into disuse once the Spanish had been permanently repulsed. By 1758 it was in ruins. The site now serves as a memorial to colonial military life before the Revolutionary War.
What to see and do.0 Both history buffs and nature lovers enjoy this park, which is open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily except for Christmas. At the visitor center, a 25-minute film, This is Frederica, 0 and touch-screen computers introduce you to the park's history. The center's small museum exhibits artifacts collected from the site, and you can rent a self-guided audio tour here. No vehicles or bikes are permitted in the town site, though a golf cart is available for mobility-impaired persons. On your walking tour, stop by the outside exhibits that explain how mid-18th-century life was lived. No buildings have been restored, but you can see the foundations of houses and the ruins of the barracks and magazine. On summer weekends, sign up for a ranger tour. Be sure to look about at the beautiful scenery: a lush garden of huge oak trees, Spanish moss, and over 200 species of birds. This southern environment was part of the colonists' lives. During the late spring and early fall, insects were also part of their lives, and yours too, so bring insect repellent to ward off the gnats, mosquitoes, and biting flies.
Call ahead to learn the schedules of many special programs such as the Fort Frederica Festival held the first Saturday in March. You may reserve school educational programs during the academic year. Leashed pets are permitted. Admission fees are $3 per person 16 and older. Closed on Christmas Day.
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Please call ahead to confirm details. We do our best to give you current information, but facts can change. Please let us know if you find something's changed.
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