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Michael has a BA in History & American Studies and an MSc in American History from the University of Edinburgh. He comes from a proud military family and has spent most of his career as an educator in the Middle East and Asia. His passion is travel, and he seizes any opportunity to share his experiences in the most immersive way possible, whether at sea or on the land.

Part of our in-depth series exploring Southern Early American Forts

Picture of Fort King George

Fort King George
P.O. Box 711
Darien, Ga 31305
Phone: 912-437-4770

Fort King George, Georgia's first colonial British garrison, is located at the mouth of the Altamaha River and contains the brick ruins of an early sawmill operation and a small graveyard. Established in 1721 to resist the expansion of French and Spanish interests, the fort was, at that time, the southernmost outpost of the British Empire in North America. The fort was destroyed by fire in 1726 and rebuilt the following year. The surviving portions of the first sawmill are significant and offer rare examples of early colonial industry in Georgia. A museum interprets the history of the area, including the early occupation of the site by the Guale Indians. The site also includes an authentic reconstructed frontier blockhouse which provides visitors excellent views over the marshes of the Altamaha River.

Visitation

Highest in March, April, October, November; lowest in January.

Operating Hours, Seasons

Tuesday - Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.; closed Monday (except legal holidays). Closed Tuesday when open Monday.

Climate, Recommended Clothing

Summers are hot and humid. Winters are mild and normally pleasant. Recommend light clothing April to November. Insect repellent recommended in spring, summer and fall.

Directions

Fort King George is located 1-1⁄2 miles east of U.S. 17 in Darien, Ga. From I-95, get off at exit 10 and head south on U.S. 17 for approximately 3 miles into downtown Darien. Follow signs to the park.

Transportation

In Park: Personal vehicles, bicycles, bike trail and rack.

Fees, Costs, Rates

Adult $2.00, child (ages 6- 18) $1.00, 5 years and under free.

Group rates (more than 15 in number):
educational $.75 bus driver and teacher free;
organized group $1.50, bus driver and group leader free.

Visitors Center/Exhibits

Information Center, Gift Shop, Museum, Exhibits on Guale Indians, European Power Conflict (1720's), Building of Fort King George, Fort King George Garrison, Highlanders of Darien and Sawmill/Rafting Period Exhibit.

Programs, Activities

Living history program for all groups. Cannon firings on select weekends (crew and weather permitting), nature walks, canoe excursions, special programs and reenactments throughout the year.

Lodging and Camping Facilities

None on site. A variety of camping and lodging facilities available in the area.

Reservations/Permits

Reservations for all groups should be made at least two weeks in advance.

Special Events/Programs

March - Spring Encampment
April - Darien in Flames
July - Cannons Across the Marsh; Fort King George 1721-1727
October - The Fort by Candlelight
November - Fall Encampment

Communities and Related Links
Fort King George Historic Site
Fort King George Monument
Brunswick Convention and Visitors Bureau

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