On Saturday, Jan. 18, the sound of cannons and muskets will once again ring out at Fort Fisher State Historic Site. The event will mark the 160th anniversary of the fort’s capture by U.S. forces in January 1865. This will be the site’s first major event since opening a new 20,000-square-foot visitor center and reconstructed earthworks late last year.
The day’s activities begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 4 p.m. The schedule for the day includes 19th-century weapons demonstrations at 10 a.m., noon, 2, and 4 p.m., as well as ongoing living history demonstrations and displays. Speakers Dr. Chris Fonvielle, Dr. Robert Browning, Rod Gragg, and Dr. Angela Zombek will present on various topics relevant to Fort Fisher and the Wilmington Campaign. A full event schedule is available on Fort Fisher State Historic Site’s website and social media channels.
Admission to the event is free. Parking is available at the visitor center, located at 1610 S. Fort Fisher Boulevard in Kure Beach. Concessions will be provided by the Federal Point History Center.
About Fort Fisher State Historic Site
Fort Fisher State Historic Site offers visitors an in-depth look into the history of one of the most significant military sites of the American Civil War. Located near the Cape Fear River, Fort Fisher played a crucial role in the Confederacy’s defense of the port of Wilmington, which was vital for maintaining supply lines. Today, the site features a variety of engaging tours, exhibitions, and educational programs that explore the fort’s strategic importance, the fierce battles fought there, and the daily life of soldiers stationed at the fort. The site is located at 1610 Ft. Fisher Blvd. South Kure Beach, NC 28449E. For more information, visit https://historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/fort-fisher or call (910) 251-7340.
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.