Fort Jefferson is a historic military fortress located within the Dry Tortugas National Park, approximately 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. It is situated on Garden Key, one of the seven islands that make up the Dry Tortugas archipelago. The fort is renowned for its massive size and remote location, making it one of the most isolated and impressive coastal forts in the United States.
Construction of Fort Jefferson began in 1846, and it was intended to serve as a strategic defense point for the Gulf of Mexico, as well as to control navigation and trade in the region. However, the fort was never completed, despite more than 30 years of construction efforts. It was designed to be a massive, three-tiered fortress with walls rising three stories high and covering an area of over 16 acres.
The fort’s construction utilized more than 16 million bricks, making it one of the largest masonry structures in the Western Hemisphere. However, due to various challenges such as its remote location, exposure to hurricanes, and the difficulty of supplying construction materials, Fort Jefferson was never fully finished.
During the Civil War, Fort Jefferson served as a military prison, notably housing Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was convicted of conspiracy in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. The fort was also used as a military outpost during the Spanish-American War and World War I.
Today, Fort Jefferson is a popular tourist destination, accessible by boat or seaplane from Key West. Visitors can explore the fort’s grounds, walk along its ramparts, and learn about its fascinating history through interpretive exhibits. The surrounding waters are ideal for snorkeling, diving, and birdwatching, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts as well.
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