The Battle at Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter is a United States fort located in Charleston, South Carolina. It is the place of the most pivotal moment in Civil War history, as the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.

In this article you will learn about the journey from construction to its current status as a national monument. Along with some fun facts and historical context along the way. If you love this era of history, our American flags and historical flag collection may be perfect for you!

Construction and Early History

In the aftermath of the War of 1812, the United States recognized the need for coastal defenses to protect strategic ports. Charleston Harbor was identified as a vulnerable point, prompting the construction of Fort Sumter on an artificial island. Named after Revolutionary War hero General Thomas Sumter, construction began in 1829. The fort was designed as a five-sided brick structure capable of mounting 135 guns and housing a garrison of 650 men. However, by 1861, the fort remained incomplete, with only about 90% of the work finished.

In the United States Presidential election of 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected as the 16th President of the United States, and he would take office in 1861. Lincoln was from the north and was a proponent of the abolition of slavery. His election brought concern to the southern states, and shortly after Lincoln was elected President, South Carolina declared that it was seceding from the United States. In early 1861, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana and Texas also seceded from the United States (check out our State Flag collection here). These seven states formed a government entity called the Confederate States of America (CSA).

The Battle of Fort Sumter

The election of Abraham Lincoln in November 1860 led to heightened tensions between the Northern and Southern states. South Carolina seceded from the Union on December 20, 1860, and demanded the surrender of federal installations within its borders, including Fort Sumter. Major Robert Anderson, commanding the Union garrison, refused to surrender.

After months of standoff, Confederate forces, under General P.G.T. Beauregard, opened fire on Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861. The bombardment lasted 34 hours, during which approximately 3,000 shells were fired. Facing dwindling supplies and no prospect of reinforcement, Major Anderson surrendered the fort on April 13. Remarkably, there were no fatalities during the bombardment, though two Union soldiers died during a ceremonial cannon salute following the surrender.

Fort Sumter's Role in the Civil War

The fall of Fort Sumter galvanized both the North and the South, leading to a surge in enlistments and marking the official start of the Civil War. The Confederacy held the fort for nearly four years, despite multiple attempts by Union forces to retake it. From 1863 onwards, Union artillery bombarded Fort Sumter extensively, reducing much of the fort to rubble. Despite the destruction, Confederate forces managed to hold the fort until February 17, 1865, when they evacuated Charleston, allowing Union forces to reclaim the fort.

Post-War Reconstruction and Modern Era

After the Civil War, Fort Sumter underwent partial reconstruction. In the 1870s, efforts were made to restore the fort, but it never returned to its pre-war condition. The fort served various military purposes in the following decades, including acting as a lighthouse station from 1876 to 1897.

During the Spanish-American War, a massive concrete battery, known as Battery Huger, was constructed in the center of the fort to mount modern artillery. Fort Sumter, much like Fort McHenry, continued to hold military significance into the early 20th century, with the last troops stationed there during World War II.

By the way, we carry incredible WWII Grave Markers for fallen loved ones

In 1948, Fort Sumter was designated as a national monument, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, it stands for a lot of American War history, attracting visitors worldwide who come to learn about its role in the Civil War and to learn about the events that unfolded within its walls.

Visiting Fort Sumter Today

Managed by the National Park Service, Fort Sumter is accessible to the public via boat tours departing from Charleston. Visitors can explore the remnants of the original fortifications, view exhibits detailing its history, and participate in interpretive programs that provide deeper insights into its significance. The fort's museum houses artifacts from the Civil War era, including the original flag that flew over Fort Sumter during the initial bombardment.

Do You Love Fort Sumter and American History?

The Battle of Fort Sumter marked the beginning of the Civil War, a war that would mark the first time a country, loved by its people, was torn apart by political, economic and belief differences.

For those interested in the flags that flew over Fort Sumter and other historical banners made in America, exploring collections of Civil War Flags can give you the ammunition to fly what you believe in!

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