Historic Site
(912) 437-4770
This is the oldest English fort remaining on Georgia's coast. From 1721 until 1736, Fort King George was the southern outpost of the British Empire in North America. A cypress blockhouse, barracks and palisaded earthen fort were constructed in 1721 by scoutmen led by Colonel John "Tuscarora Jack" Barnwell. For the next seven years, His Majesty's Independent Company garrisoned the fort. They endured incredible hardships from disease, threats of Spanish and Indian attacks, and the harsh, unfamiliar coastal environment. After the fort was abandoned, General James Oglethorpe brought Scottish Highlanders to the site in 1736. The settlement, called Darien, eventually became a foremost export center of lumber until 1925.
Using old records and drawings, this 18th century frontier fortification on the Altamaha River has been reconstructed for public tours. Structures include a blockhouse, officers' quarters, barracks, a guardhouse, moat and palisades. A museum and film cover the Guale Indians, the Santo Domingo de Talaje mission, Fort King George, the Scots of Darien and 19th century sawmilling when Darien became a major seaport. In addition to the many fort buildings, remains of three sawmills and tabby ruins are still visible. This site is on the Colonial Coast Birding Trail.
Hours:
Admission:
- Adults $5, Children $2.50, Seniors $4.50
- Group tours available for adults and youths that consist of 15 or more people. Reservations required at least one week in advance. Group tours consist of a one-hour living history presentation on a soldier's life and a weapons demonstration. Group rate: $3.50 per adult or $2 per child.
- Picnic area and bus parking available.
FACILITIES:
- Outdoor Exhibits
- Museum and Film
- Gift Shop
- Nature Trail
- Picnic Area
- Bus Parking
Teacher's Resource for Touring Historic Sites
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS:
OTHER:
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Note: Fort King George Historic Site has no reservable facilities.
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Events
Cathead Creek Canoe Excursion
Saturday, Feb 13, 2010 10 AM to 12 PM
Saturday, Sep 18, 2010 10 AM to 12 PM
| A 3 mile trip through the old rice canals with a variety of plants and wildlife. (Intermediate) $20.00 per person, All trips include canoes, paddles, and life jackets. Participants are responsible for their own food and other amenities. 912-437-4770. |
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Dinner with General James E. Oglethorpe
Saturday, Feb 20, 2010 7 PM to 9 PM
| General James E. Oglethorpe, Colonel John Barnwell and the Garrison of Fort King George invite the public to a quaint colonial dinner in the enlisted soldiers' barracks... $30 per plate. (912) 437-4770. |
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Scottish Heritage Day Encampment
Saturday, Mar 20, 2010 9 AM to 5 PM
| A variety of living history demonstrations portraying colonial and particularly Scottish culture will be featured. A battle re-enactment will take place at 2 p.m. $3.00-$5.00 (912) 437-4770. |
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Cathead Creek to Darien Canoe Excursion
Saturday, Apr 10, 2010 8 AM to 12:30 PM
Saturday, Aug 7, 2010 8 AM to 12:30 PM
Saturday, Aug 21, 2010 8 AM to 12:30 PM
| Paddle through old rice canals and experience wildlife at its best. See natures beauty in the bloom and enjoy the trip into Historic Darien. We will land at Skipper's Dock. $25.00 per person. Includes canoes, life jackets, and paddles. Participants are responsible for their own food/water, bug spray and other amenities. 912-437-4770. |
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Specials
