Burial Ground and "Bloody Marsh" Wayside

Skirmishes on St. Simons Island in 1742 between the British and Spanish decided Georgia's fate.

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Oglethorpe evacuated Fort St. Simons as the Spanish landed at Gascoigne’s Bluff. Montiano’s troops then advanced toward Frederica. As the Spanish marched up Military Road, a roar shook the trees. The howls of Indian warriors and Frederica townsmen convinced the invaders they were outnumbered. Their drums beat out retreat. Oglethorpe led the chase for two miles and then as he raced back to Frederica for reinforcements the armies re-engaged. When Oglethorpe returned down the Military Road: 

OGLETHORPE: “I found the Spaniards entirely routed by one Platoon of the Regiment under the command of Lieut. Sutherland and the Highland Company under the Command of Lieut. Charles Mackay.”

Rain ended the battle. The marsh around the battlefield was stained red with blood. The day’s action would be known as the Battle of Bloody Marsh, July 7, 1742. Manuel de Montiano was now in the position that Oglethorpe had been in at St. Augustine; in hostile country facing unknown odds. Montiano sent ships to scout the river. These were repelled by Frederica’s cannon, which at last fulfilled their destiny. After several days of indecision, Montiano sailed for home. Frederica had prevailed. Oglethorpe declared a day of Thanksgiving, thanking God:

OGLETHORPE: “For his great deliverance and the end it has put to the Spanish Invasion.”

Oglethorpe was vindicated. Frederica had fulfilled its purpose.

Return now to the Visitor Center where you began the tour.