Water Cistern

The entrance to the cistern was a hole in the gundeck, most likely covered by a wooden hatch.

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

While the Matanzas River could provide the soldiers with food if their rations ran out, access to fresh water was vital for their survival.


The fort's cistern is located under the gundeck with its opening under the stairs. It measures 13 feet deep and about 8 feet in diameter. The roof of the fort collected rain water which was directed into the cistern by a wooden pipe. There was no other source of fresh water on the island. However, if needed, the soldiers could bring water in barrels from St. Augustine or from nearby creeks.