Fort Martello: A Historical Gem in Key West

History of Fort Martello

Fort Martello is a historic coastal fortification located in Key West, Florida. Built in 1847, it is one of the best-preserved examples of a Third System fort in the United States. The fort was named after Lieutenant Colonel Henry Martello, a British military engineer who designed a type of circular fort that was used extensively in the British Empire.

The fort was constructed to protect Key West from attack by foreign powers, particularly Spain and Great Britain. It was garrisoned by U.S. Army troops until 1861, when it was captured by Confederate forces during the Civil War. The Confederates used the fort as a prison and for storage of supplies. The fort was recaptured by Union forces in 1863 and remained in their control until the end of the war.

After the Civil War, Fort Martello was used as a military prison and as a quarantine station for yellow fever patients. In 1898, the fort was transferred to the U.S. Navy, which used it as a coaling station and for storage. The Navy abandoned the fort in 1947, and it was transferred to the city of Key West in 1949.

Restoration of Fort Martello

In 1964, Fort Martello was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The fort was restored in the 1970s and 1980s, and it is now open to the public as a museum.

The museum tells the story of the fort's history and its role in the defense of Key West. Visitors can explore the fort's interior, which includes a barracks, a guardhouse, and a kitchen. They can also climb to the top of the fort's walls for panoramic views of Key West and the surrounding area.

Fort Martello Today

Fort Martello is a popular tourist destination in Key West. It is also used for educational programs and special events. The fort is a reminder of the city's rich history and its importance in the defense of the United States.

Interesting Facts About Fort Martello

• Fort Martello is the largest fort in Key West.
• The fort's walls are 12 feet thick and 20 feet high.
• The fort has two levels of gun emplacements.
• The fort was armed with 24 cannons.
• The fort was never attacked by an enemy force.

Visitor Information

Fort Martello is open to the public daily from 9am to 5pm. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children ages 6-12, and free for children under 6.

Educational Programs

Fort Martello offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults. These programs include:

• Guided tours of the fort
• History presentations
• Living history demonstrations
• Workshops

Special Events

Fort Martello hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. These events include:

• Concerts
• Art exhibitions
• Historical reenactments
• Festivals

FAQs

Q: What is the best time to visit Fort Martello?
A: The best time to visit Fort Martello is during the off-season (May-October), when the weather is cooler and there are fewer crowds.

Q: Is Fort Martello handicap accessible?
A: Fort Martello is not handicap accessible.

Q: Can I take my pet to Fort Martello?
A: Pets are not allowed on the grounds of Fort Martello.

Q: How long does it take to tour Fort Martello?
A: It takes about 1-2 hours to tour Fort Martello.

Q: Is there a gift shop at Fort Martello?
A: Yes, there is a gift shop at Fort Martello.

Q: Can I get married at Fort Martello?
A: Yes, you can get married at Fort Martello.

Q: Are there any other forts in Key West?
A: Yes, there are two other forts in Key West: Fort Zachary Taylor and Fort Jefferson.

Tables

Table 1: Fort Martello Facts

Table 2: Fort Martello Visitor Information

Table 3: Fort Martello Educational Programs

Table 4: Fort Martello Special Events