Dauphin Island history by the water
Walk through one of Alabama’s best-preserved 19th-century coastal forts, discover its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay and enjoy panoramic views from the eastern tip of Dauphin Island.
Visitor snapshot
51 Bienville Boulevard · Dauphin Island, AL 36528
A landmark on Mobile Bay
Construction on Fort Gaines began in 1821, and the fort was completed during the Civil War. Its strategic position at the entrance to Mobile Bay made it an important site during the Battle of Mobile Bay in August 1864.
Today, visitors can explore brick ramparts, passageways and preserved structures while looking across the same waters that shaped the fort’s history. Ongoing shoreline erosion has also made preservation of the site an important local priority.
Fort Gaines surrendered to Union forces on August 8, 1864, after the naval battle associated with Admiral David Farragut’s famous command, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!”
Inside Fort Gaines
See artillery connected to the fort’s military history and the defense of Mobile Bay.
Walk through tunnels, the blacksmith shop, bakery, officers’ quarters and other surviving structures.
View artifacts and the large anchor from Admiral Farragut’s flagship, the USS Hartford.
Special programs and group tours can bring the fort’s blacksmithing and artillery history to life.
Know before you go
Make it a coastal day trip
Fort Gaines adds an easy history-focused outing to a Gulf Coast vacation. Return to a Brett/Robinson rental for beach access, space to unwind and a comfortable home base in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach.
Visitor questions
Fort Gaines is at 51 Bienville Boulevard on the eastern end of Dauphin Island, Alabama, overlooking Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Visitors can explore original cannons, tunnels, a blacksmith shop, historic kitchens and buildings, museum exhibits, a gift shop and the USS Hartford anchor.
Guided tours are available for groups of at least 15 with a minimum of two weeks’ advance notice. Contact Fort Gaines directly to confirm availability and arrangements.
Choose a Brett/Robinson vacation rental and add Fort Gaines, Dauphin Island and Mobile Bay to your Alabama Gulf Coast itinerary.
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