Welcome to the Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site in Winnabow, North Carolina. As you stand here, you are standing on the very ruins of a once thriving colonial town, now a significant historical landmark that tells the story of our nations past.

The Fort was originally constructed during the American Civil War by Confederate Major General Samuel Gibbs French, as part of the wider Cape Fear defense system. Despite the ravages of time and conflict, the historic site continues to serve as an active archaeological site today.

The town itself was established in the mid 18th century as a thriving seaport on the Cape Fear River. However, it met a tragic end when British troops razed it to the ground in 1776 during the Revolutionary War. The town was never rebuilt, and now stands as an important reminder of our regions rich history.

As you wander through the site, imagine the bustling port that once existed here - ships arriving and leaving laden with goods, merchants shouting their deals over the clamor of the crowd. Now picture the towns abrupt end as it was burned to the ground by British forces, its buildings reduced to rubble.

But the Fort remained. Built in 1862 on the ruins of the destroyed town, it stood guard over the river and its surroundings during the Civil War. Today, you can still see the remnants of this defensive structure that played a crucial role in the regions history.

The Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site is more than just an archaeological site - it’s a living piece of our nation’s past. It tells us tales of prosperity and destruction, of warfare and resilience. Whether youre a history buff or simply looking for an engaging tour, this site has much to offer.