Fort Mifflin

Fort Mifflin is a defensive installation on the Delaware River in southern Philadelphia, built with bastions, a moat, and several brick buildings. The structures surround an open parade ground where a flagpole and several cannon emplacements stand.

The fortification was built in 1771 under British rule and saw heavy fighting in 1777 when American troops withstood Royal Navy bombardment for over six weeks. After the war, the fort was rebuilt multiple times and served through different conflicts into the 20th century.

The site takes its name from a Pennsylvania governor and now displays rooms filled with military equipment such as muskets and tools from the 18th century. Some visitors attend living history demonstrations where reenactors portray the daily routines of soldiers stationed at the garrison.

The site opens from March through December and offers guided tours as well as self-paced exploration of the interior buildings and outer walls. Comfortable shoes help when walking over the uneven paths and grassy areas of the grounds.

The installation is among the few fortifications in the United States that still retains portions of its original 18th-century walls. Visitors also find there a restored powder magazine with thick vaults that once stored several tons of gunpowder.

Location: Philadelphia

Inception: 1771

Architects: John Montresor

Website: https://fortmifflin.us

GPS coordinates: 39.87530,-75.21300

Latest update: December 20, 2025 11:25