Fort Sumter National Monument

Boat trips to Fort Sumter depart from Liberty Square, 340 Concord Street in Charleston and from Patriot's Point in Mount Pleasant. From the boat there are fine views of the town and the handsome mansions on the Battery.

The bombardment of Fort Sumter, held by Union forces, from Fort Johnson on April 12th 1861 marked the beginning of the Civil War.

Must-see attractions nearby:

After 34 hours of artillery bombardment the garrison surrendered, and thereafter Fort Sumter was held by the Confederates until February 1865. After withstanding incessant attacks from 1863 onwards the Confederate forces at last withdrew, leaving the fort a heap of rubble. The history of the fort is documented on the site.

Address: Fort Sumter National Monument, 1214 Middle Street, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482-9748, United States
Phone: 1 (843) 883-3123, Fax: 1 (843) 883-3910

Hours:

Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), Thanksgiving - USA (4th Thursday, November ), Christmas - Christian (December 25)

Tips: Open daily, call for hours. Call concessioner 843-722-BOAT for seasonal ferry schedule.