Drum Barracks

Drum Barracks is a military memorial site in Wilmington that preserves a Civil War-era compound from the 1860s. The grounds include the restored officers' quarters and a separate powder magazine building, along with exhibits featuring uniforms, weapons, and personal items from soldiers stationed there.

The facility was established in 1861 as the main Union Army command center for Southern California and the New Mexico Territory. It served as a crucial operational base throughout the Civil War for coordinating military actions across the western frontier.

The museum presents educational programs about military life, regional defense strategies, and the social dynamics of Civil War-era California.

The site is open for guided tours that include both the officers' quarters and the separate powder magazine building. Visitors should expect uneven ground and historic stairs that may limit accessibility for those with mobility challenges.

The site has gained attention for reported ghost sightings of Civil War soldiers, with visitors and staff describing encounters over the years. These accounts have caught the notice of television programs focused on paranormal phenomena, adding to its reputation as a place with unusual stories.

GPS coordinates: 33.78454,-118.25738

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:01