Charleston, victorious over the Royal Navy in 1776 and scene of the largest patriot defeat in 1780, played a key role in the American Revolution. Charleston's appetite for revolution continued in the 1800s as the city blazed a path to secession to safeguard slavery. The Confederacy fired on the US garrison of Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, opening the Civil War, which redefined American freedom.
Learn about where the American Civil War began and Fort Sumter's role from park rangers and visitors.
Fort Sumter is located on an island in Charleston Harbor and is only accessible by boat.
Visit Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island to experience 171 years of seacoast defense from 1776 to 1947.
Do you have a 4th grader and love visiting National Parks? You're in luck! Check out the initiative to get every kid outdoors!
We want you to have the most enjoyable trip possible; therefore, we ask that you refer to our accessibility section to learn more.
See how you can help the effort to conserve rare artifacts at Fort Sumter National Monument.
Last updated: January 15, 2020