Fort McAllister State Historic Park - Georgia (Episode 40)

Send us Fan MailFort McAllister repelled seven Union naval attacks — including four Passaic-class ironclads, the most advanced weapons in the world in 1863, engaging at near point-blank range. It finally fell on December 13, 1864, to Sherman's Army during the March to the Sea.Today it's one of the finest examples of a Confederate earthen fort in America — and one of the best birding spots on the Georgia coast. Park Manager Jason Carter joins The Parks Podcast to share the full story, including the alligator they found in the underground bombproof three weeks before we recorded.In this episode: — How Fort McAllister guarded the back door to Savannah — and why that mattered — The Ironclad engagements of 1863 — four Passaic-class ships at point-blank range, and why it was basically a stalemate — Why earthen forts are more resilient to artillery than masonry or wooden forts — The post-battle dinner — Sherman, the Confederate commander, and the argument about landmines — What you can see underground: the hot shot furnace, the central bombproof, the ammunition magazine — The witness tree — 210+ years old, blown over by Hurricane Matthew, and still growing on its side with musket rounds embedded in it — Birding at Fort McAllister — painted bunting, bald eagle, osprey, herons, raptors, and the mink on the causeway — Camping options from backcountry to premium cottages — and why it's the perfect base for Savannah — Deer flies in April through June — the honest warningLinks mentioned: — Plan your visit / reservations: gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister — Savannah: visitsavannah.com — Jason's photography: Photography by Jason C on FacebookSupport the show