Surround yourself with history at Fort Gaines during one of our annual events! Completed in 1861, visitors delight at this site of The Battle of Mobile Bay. Explore the grounds while hearing stories of days gone by, watch live reenactments and see a blacksmith demonstrate his craft. Appreciate today a place where simpler times and historic culture has been preserved. Below is a list of planned events for 2020.
August 1: 156th Battle of Mobile Bay Commemorative Day
The well-preserved ramparts of Fort Gaines have guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 160 years. Now a fascinating historic site, the Fort stands at the eastern tip of Dauphin Island where it commands panoramic views of the bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The event highlights Fort Gaines integral role in the Battle of Mobile Bay. The cannon will be fired every forty-five minutes in honor of the soldiers that fought in this pivotal battle. Come and experience a living history day for the whole family. Blacksmith demonstrations will be on hand all day in the Fort’s Blacksmith Shop. Learn more.
September 12-13: 5th Annual Massacre Island
In 1711 the Pirates stormed Mobile Bay and attacked the Island that was once called Massacre Island, because of a huge pile of human skeletons that was discovered by Pierre Le Moyne. Come and see the Pirates as they pilfer and pillage Isle Dauphine and fight against Spanish and British Galleons. Who knows, you may even find a pirate’s treasure. Learn more.
October 31: 37th Annual Renaissance Festival GATALOP 37
Hosted by the Society of Creative Anachronism, the Barony of the Osprey will present Life in the Middle Ages. You will see Knights in Armor as they storm the castle, view melee’s and sieges. Visit the Lords, Ladies, Artists, and Medieval Merchants. Watch our resident Blacksmith demonstrate his craft in the Fort’s original Blacksmith Shop. Learn more.
November 14: The Fall Campaign WWII Living History Event
Come and experience a day in the life of a WWII soldier. The soldiers will be doing drills throughout the day; there will be authentic camping and blacksmithing in the original blacksmith shop. Learn more.