It’s not hard to see why this state park in Georgia is a stunner. Walking the grounds and seeing the Spanish moss dripping from the massive trees, or the water’s edge within clear sight is nothing short of spectacular. This beautiful park is one worth checking out, not simply because of the natural beauty it encompasses, but also because it has quite an intriguing history that all Georgia residents should learn.

Fort Frederica is the type of up-close-and-personal history lesson all Georgia residents should have in order to truly appreciate our great state.

Flickr Mike McBride

Not only is Fort Frederica overflowing with natural beauty at all angles, but this one spot was where Georgia’s fate was decided.

Flickr Rain0975

In 1742, Spanish and British forces clashed deep in St. Simons Islands.

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The British troops which maintained their ground at Fort Frederica defeated the Spanish, which ultimately ensured that Georgia was maintained as a British colony.

Flickr Becky Striepe

Today, visitors can walk the grounds, viewing the archaeological remnants of centuries ago.

Flickr Charles Boyer

Protected by the National Park Service, guests are able to see the history of this fortress in person, learning about James Edward Oglethorpe and his intentions for building Fort Frederica.

Flickr Uncle Bucko

Sixty miles south of Savannah, Oglethorpe sought out this coastal key in the town of Frederica as the Spanish closed in on Georgia territory.

Flickr Becky Striepe

The location for Fort Frederica was perfect — it was right on the bend of the Frederica River, which allowed complete control over approaching enemy ships.

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Fort Frederica was fortified with a forty-acre outer wall, plus a dry moat and two ten-foot tall wooden palisades

Flickr George Burdell

Although not much remains of the fortress today, visitors are still able to see what history has left behind.

Flickr Neal Wellons

Even the nature that surrounds Fort Frederica had a purpose, as Oglethorpe planted more than 5,000 mulberry trees with the intention to produce silk in order for the colonists to prosper.

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Visiting this state park in Georgia will provide guests with a history lesson for the ages, plus a beautiful way to spend an afternoon.

Flickr Charles Boyer

Have you ever visited Fort Frederica? Share with us your experience! All first-time visitors can use the address below to plan their trip:

Flickr Mike McBride

Flickr Rain0975

Flickr Becky Striepe

Flickr Charles Boyer

Flickr Uncle Bucko

Flickr septic breath

Flickr George Burdell

Flickr Neal Wellons

Fort Frederica National Monument 6515 Frederica Rd. St. Simons Island, GA 31522

Otherwise, if you’re looking for more Georgia history to appreciate, take a look at The Historic Small Town That Every Georgian Should Visit At Least Once.

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