Historic Site
912-884-5999
Fort Morris State Historic Site Business Plan
When the Continental Congress convened in 1776, the delegates recognized the importance of a fort to protect their growing seaport from the British. Soon afterwards, a low bluff on the Medway River at Sunbury was fortified and garrisoned by 200 patriots. When the British demanded the fort’s surrender on November 25, 1778, the defiant Col. John McIntosh replied, “Come and take it!” The British refused and withdrew back to Florida. Forty-five days later, they returned with a superior force, and on January 9, 1779, Fort Morris fell after a short but heavy bombardment.
Under the name of Fort Defiance, this bulwark was once again used against the British during the War of 1812, and Sunbury's harbor was guarded by armed barges. Today, visitors can stand within the earthwork remains and view scenic Saint Catherines Sound. A museum and film describe the colonial port of Sunbury and the site’s history.
Visitors may borrow binoculars and a field guide to go birding. Downy woodpeckers, pileated woodpeckers, goldfinches, wood storks, painted buntings, great egrets and many other coastal species can be seen.
Hours: Thursday-Saturday / 9AM-5PM
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
GeorgiaStateParks.org/FortMorris
Historic Site Admission:
- $4.50 Adults
- $4.00 Seniors (62+)
- $3.00 Youth (6-17)
- $1.00 Child (under 6)
Group rates available with advance notice.
FACILITIES:
- 67 Acres
- Visitor Center (film & exhibits)
- Gift Shop
- 7 Picnic Sites
- 1-Mile Nature Trail
- Pioneer Campground (groups only, $25 and up)
- Bus Parking
ACTIVITIES:
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS:
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Note: Fort Morris Historic Site has no reservable facilities.
View by dateEvents
Independence Day Colonial Faire Thursday, Jul 4, 2013 11 AM to 3 PM
Celebrate the 4th with colonial games, contests of skill, colonial music, musket firings, cannon firings and activities. Prizes will be awarded to all participants. Sponsored by the City of Flemington, Ga., Friends of Fort Morris and the Liberty County Convention and Visitors Bureau. 912-884-5999. |
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Labor Day Commemoration Monday, Sep 2, 2013 11 AM to 3 PM
Commemorate Labor Day holiday with hourly soldier talks and musket and cannon firings at this scenic coastal fort. $3-$4.50 912-884-5999. |
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"Come and Take It!" Revolutionary War Encampment Saturday, Nov 23, 2013 11 AM to 4 PM
This American Revolution encampment commemorates Col. John McIntosh's defiant reply to a British demand for surrender. Enjoy colonial demonstrations, musket and cannon drills, a skirmish and more. Interpreters in historical attire will represent a variety of colonial life. 912-884-5999. |
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A Colonial Christmas Saturday, Dec 14, 2013 5 PM to 8 PM| Get away from the over-commercialization of the holidays and visit Fort Morris for a more peaceful celebration. Join park staff for colonial refreshments, a yule log, bonfire, 18th century music, caroling, dance and firing of the Christmas guns. 912-884-5999. |
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