Fort Massachusetts

Fort Massachusetts is a coastal fortification on Ship Island, Mississippi, built in a distinctive D-shaped design. The structure contains roughly one million bricks and features defensive positions that can repel attacks from both water and land approaches.

The fort was built in 1861 and served as a critical military stronghold during the Civil War. It protected Union forces along the Gulf Coast and was a key point for controlling sea passages.

The fort shows how 19th-century builders mastered brick construction to protect their coast from threats. You can see the skilled work that went into creating this massive defensive structure.

Access to the fort is arranged through guided tours offered on multiple days each week. It is best to contact ahead to confirm current hours and tour availability before planning your visit.

Inside the fort sits an unused hot shot furnace designed to heat cannonballs for firing at wooden vessels. This feature became unnecessary once naval forces switched to metal-hulled ships, remaining as a quiet reminder of how warfare changed.

Location: Harrison County

Inception: 1860s

Website: https://nps.gov/guis/learn/historyculture/fort-massachusetts.htm

GPS coordinates: 30.21222,-88.97194

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:41