Situated just south of Savannah near I-95 along the scenic Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister Historic Park boasts one of the Confederacy’s best-preserved earthwork fortifications. This site withstood significant Union attacks, including a notable naval bombardment by the USS Montauk in 1863. However, it fell during General William T. Sherman’s “March to the Sea,” marking a critical moment in securing Union supply lines. Visitors can explore the grounds, where cannons, a hot shot furnace, bombproof barracks, and palisades narrate its story. Additionally, a Civil War museum on-site offers a collection of artifacts that delve into the fort’s rich history.
Joseph Longworth McAllister
Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Longworth McAllister served as a Confederate officer during the American Civil War. He was born in 1820 at Strathy Hall Plantation, located in Bryan County, Georgia. McAllister came from a distinguished military family, as both his grandfather, Archibald McAllister, and his great-grandfather, Richard McAllister, held the rank of officer during the Revolutionary War.
Before the war, McAllister was a wealthy and respected rice planter known for his philanthropy and kindness. In 1862, he formed a company of mounted infantrymen called the “Hardwick Mounted Rifles,” which later became part of the 7th Georgia Cavalry. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and eventually became the regiment commander.
He met his end at the Battle of Trevillian Station on June 11, 1864, one of the most significant cavalry battles of the Civil War. Here, he was killed while leading his troops, famously shouting, “Strike for God and our native land!” as he fell. His death was noted for his bravery, with accounts describing him as a natural leader who inspired his men. His leadership was such that even though he lacked formal military training, he was highly esteemed by those who served under him.
Fort McAllister, which played a significant role in defending Savannah during the Civil War, was built on land he owned, showcasing his connection to the military and strategic aspects of the conflict. After his death, his memory was preserved through various historical records, memorials, and artifacts donated by his descendants to Fort McAllister State Park, where his items are displayed.
Fort McAllister Pivotal to the Civil War
Fort McAllister was a critical location during the Civil War, serving as a key Confederate stronghold along the Ogeechee River, just south of Savannah, Georgia. Its strategic position made it indispensable for protecting the coastal city of Savannah, a vital port for Confederate supply lines and trade. Unlike many other fortifications of the era, Fort McAllister was constructed primarily of earthworks, which were highly effective at absorbing the impact of heavy artillery fire. This innovative design allowed the fort to withstand multiple Union naval assaults in 1862 and 1863, including bombardments by powerful ironclad warships. Despite the Union’s technological superiority at sea, Fort McAllister remained resilient, frustrating Union attempts to dominate the region’s waterways.
The fort’s true importance emerged during General William Tecumseh Sherman’s famous “March to the Sea” in late 1864. After carving a path of destruction across Georgia, Sherman’s forces arrived near Savannah in early December. The capture of the city was crucial for Sherman’s campaign, but his army, deep in enemy territory, needed to establish contact with the Union navy to secure supplies and reinforcements. Fort McAllister stood as the final obstacle to achieving this goal.
On December 13, 1864, Sherman ordered Brigadier General William B. Hazen to lead an assault on the fort. Hazen’s division of approximately 4,000 Union troops advanced rapidly against the fort’s defenses, which were manned by fewer than 300 Confederate soldiers under Major George W. Anderson. Despite their smaller numbers, the Confederate defenders fought fiercely, relying on the fort’s thick earthen walls and a well-coordinated system of artillery and small arms fire. However, the Union forces used overwhelming numbers and aggressive tactics, scaling the fort’s walls under heavy fire. The battle was intense but brief, lasting only about 15 minutes before the Union troops overran the fort.
The fall of Fort McAllister was a decisive moment in Sherman’s campaign. It opened the Ogeechee River to Union naval forces, allowing Sherman’s army to resupply and communicate with the outside world. This victory effectively sealed the fate of Savannah, which surrendered without a fight on December 21, 1864. Sherman later presented the city to President Abraham Lincoln as a Christmas gift, marking the success of the “March to the Sea” and delivering a significant blow to Confederate morale and infrastructure.
Though it is often overshadowed by larger battles and campaigns, the fall of Fort McAllister was a pivotal event in the Civil War. Its capture demonstrated the Union army’s ability to overcome seemingly impenetrable defenses and underscored the strategic brilliance of Sherman’s campaign. The fort’s story is a testament to the ingenuity of Civil War fortifications, the bravery of its defenders, and the relentless determination of the Union forces to achieve victory.
I enjoyed visiting this historical site and I learned a lot being on location.
Until next time, Knowledge is Power
