History of Fort Clinch
An aerial view of Fort Clinch courtesy of Fort Clinch State Park
A Battle Hardened Fort on Amelia Island
Amelia Island is known for its wide-open nature views, abundant and quiet beaches, and coveted small-town charm. The island isn't just for relaxing in the sun though, it is filled with a deep and engaging history.
A big piece of the history of Amelia Island is found on the grounds of Fort Clinch; one of the best-preserved Civil War-era forts in the country.
Fort Clinch Origins
The War of 1812 brought on massive amounts of destruction in the United States. In a time where foreign invaders were a major threat, a plan was put in place to build forts along the coast of the United States.
In order to protect the coast of southern Georgia, civilians and the army corps came together in 1847 to begin construction of the fort. Unfortunately, the fort would remain unfinished by the start of the Civil war; it had no accommodations for true protections quite yet.
Several battles in the American Civil War took place in Florida. Image courtesy of AP.
General Robert E. Lee had command over the fort at the time, but when Union troops arrived in 1862, construction on the fort was forced to stop. After evacuations were completed, work on the fort began again but still would not be completed by the end of the war, and it was abandoned in 1869.
Although not finished, Fort Clinch would still play an important role in conflicts to come. During the Spanish-American war, it was used as a barracks and ammunition depot. But when conflicts ceased, Fort Clinch would be abandoned once again.
Fort Clinch State Park
There are several miles of bike trails in Fort Clinch State Park. Image courtesy of Destination Amelia.
The fort would continue to experience years of neglect, but in 1935, Fort Clinch would be recognized as one of Florida’s first state parks! Shortly after, the Civilian Conservation Corps were able to once again begin restoration on the fort, and it would serve one final purpose.
Fort Clinch was a joint operations center for surveillance and communications during World War II, and at the end of the war it once again retained its state park status.
Fort Clinch Today
Because Fort Clinch has been so well preserved, it now has an abundance of activities available for locals and tourists alike. Not only can you delve into the fort’s history, but you can go on an adventure or two as well!
The park has a little over three miles of trail for cyclists who want to experience an oak-shaded canopy view. The trail ends at the visitor center, but along the way be sure to look out for multiple species of unique birds!
Fort Clinch has unique birding opportunities; it is one of the first stops on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail! The park also has fishing opportunities along the Atlantic shoreline and St. Mary's Inlet. The most popular fish caught are mullet, sea trout, whiting, redfish, and black drum!
If you’re a paddler looking for a challenge, Fort Clinch allows kayaking and canoeing but only for the most experienced. The Inlet is known for extremely strong and unpredictable currents!
Timoti’s Seafood Shak
Now that you’re ready to take on the history of Fort Clinch and all that the park has to offer, you’re going to want to fuel up for the adventure! Head to Timotis for wild-caught seafood.