Fort Morris Historic Site is a Georgia state historic park in Liberty County, just a 45-minute drive from Savannah.
The fort is on a bend in the Medway River and played an important role in the protection of southeast Georgia throughout various conflicts beginning in 1741 and ending in 1865.
The site is owned by the state of Georgia and preserves the historical remains of the various forts that were once on the site. Today, visitors can stand within the earthwork remains and view scenic Saint Catherines Sound. A museum and film describe the colonial port of Sunbury and the site’s history.
Visitors to Fort Morris State Historic Site hear whispers of the past as they gaze into the panoramic vista of the coastal environment. The original earthworks remain well preserved. Here, soldiers from the American Revolution and War of 1812 defended the commercial seaport of Sunbury and the strategic Medway River.
When the Continental Congress convened in 1776, the delegates recognized the importance of a fort to protect their growing seaport from the British.
Soon afterwards, a low bluff on the Medway River at Sunbury was fortified and garrisoned by 200 patriots. When the British demanded the fort’s surrender on November 25, 1778, the defiant Col. John McIntosh replied, “Come and take it!” The British refused and withdrew back to Florida. Forty-five days later, they returned with a superior force, and on January 9, 1779, Fort Morris fell after a short but heavy bombardment.
Under the name of Fort Defiance, this bulwark was once again used against the British during the War of 1812, and Sunbury’s harbor was guarded by armed barges.
Fort Morris Facilities:
Visitors may borrow binoculars and a field guide to go birding. Downy woodpeckers, pileated woodpeckers, goldfinches, wood storks, painted buntings, great egrets and many other coastal species can be seen.
The site and the park offer:
- 66 Acres
- Visitor Center
- Gift Shop
- Picnic Area
- Bus Parking
- Pioneer Campsite
Things to do & dee:
- Southeast Coast Saltwater Paddling Trail Logo
- Educational Programs
- Nature Trail
- Picnicking
- Birding — Colonial Coast Birding Trail
Leashed pets are allowed on historic site trails, however, they are not allowed in buildings.
Hours:
- Historic Site
Open 7 days 9 a.m.–5 p.m. - Museum
Friday–Sunday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Historic Site Admission:
- Adults (18–61): $4.50
- Seniors (62+): $4.00
- Youth (6–17): $3.00
- Children (under 6): Free
- Group rates available with advance notice.
- Historic Site Annual Pass Available
- Guests can access the site for self-guided tours Sunday-Wednesday by paying $5 per vehicle at collection box in the parking area.
Contact:
- Phone: 912-884-5999
- Address:
2559 Fort Morris Road
Midway, GA 31320
Liberty County - https://gastateparks.org/FortMorris
