African American History Tour
Schedule
Sat Feb 22 2025 at 10:00 am to 11:00 am
UTC-05:00Location
3894 Fort McAllister Rd, Richmond Hill, GA 31324-4862, United States | Richmond Hill, GA
In honor of Black History Month, step back in time on a special guided tour that brings to life the stories of the enslaved, the soldiers, the battles, the losses, and the bravery that shaped Fort McAllister.Journey through the 1700s and 1800s as we uncover the vital contributions of African Americans—those who toiled, fought, and persevered, leaving an enduring mark on the fort and the surrounding community.
Tour Highlights:
Plantation Society & Social Hierarchy – Learn about the plantation economy that shaped the region and the social structure that defined the lives of both enslaved and free individuals.
Life on the Plantation: Amos Morel – Discover the story of Amos Morel and how the hierarchy of plantation life influenced his experiences.
The Civil War & the Enslaved Workforce – Examine the impact of the war on the enslaved community, including their forced labor in constructing Fort McAllister.
The Hot Shot Cannon & Enslaved Artillery Crews – Learn about the function of the Hot Shot cannon and how enslaved men were forced to operate these weapons.
Acts of Resistance: The Land Torpedo Escape – Hear the gripping account of an enslaved man who stole critical Confederate defense plans and escaped to Union forces.
The Ebenezer Creek Massacre – Understand the tragic fate of formerly enslaved individuals as General Sherman’s troops approached Fort McAllister.
The Final Battle & Savannah’s Surrender – Explore the fall of Fort McAllister and its role in the larger story of the Civil War’s final days in Georgia.
Accountability & Special Field Order 15 – Learn how Black leaders confronted Sherman about the Ebenezer Creek Massacre, leading to the promise of land redistribution.
Amos Morel’s Life After the War & the Ogeechee Troubles – Follow Amos Morel’s journey after emancipation and the struggles faced by freedmen in the region.
Henry Ford & the Rediscovery of Fort McAllister – Conclude the tour with the story of how Henry Ford uncovered and restored the fort using historical photographs and original plans.
Throughout the tour, we will also discuss:
The experiences of enslaved men on Georgia’s plantations
The Confederate practice of using enslaved conscripted soldiers
The impact of the Ebenezer Creek Massacre and Special Field Order 15
This tour offers an in-depth look at the resilience, struggles, and contributions of African Americans in the region’s history.
Cost: Regular fort admission plus $5 per person for the guided tour and program. No ParkPass is needed with admission.
ABOUT FORT MCALLISTER:
Located south of Savannah on the banks of the Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister showcases the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. The earthworks were attacked seven times by Union ironclads but did not fall until 1864 -- ending Gen. William T. Sherman’s “March to the Sea.” Visitors can explore the grounds with cannons, a furnace, bomb proof, barracks, palisades, and more, while a Civil War museum contains artifacts, a video, and a gift shop.
Nestled among giant live oaks, Spanish moss, and salt marsh, this park is a beautiful location for camping, fishing, boating, and picnicking. Seven cabins sit on stilts near the marsh, surrounded by palm trees and palmettos. The shaded campground is bordered by tidal Redbird Creek, a boat ramp, a fishing dock, and a nature trail. A large picnic area offers river views and playgrounds, while another boat ramp provides access to the Ogeechee River.
For more information, visit www.gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister or call the park office at 912-727-2339
Where is it happening?
3894 Fort McAllister Rd, Richmond Hill, GA 31324-4862, United States
