Fort Pickens: A Historic Gem of Pensacola Beach

Aerial view of Fort Pickens in Pensacola Beach.

Nestled on the western tip of Santa Rosa Island in Pensacola, Fort Pickens stands as a testament to the region’s deep military history. This 19th-century brick fortress, once a key element of the U.S. coastal defense system, is now a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore and attracts visitors from across the country.

Historical Significance

Construction of Fort Pickens began in 1829 and was completed in 1834. Named after Revolutionary War Brig. Gen. Andrew Pickens, the fort was designed to protect Pensacola Bay and the naval yard from invaders. At the time, Pensacola was considered one of the most strategic deep-water ports on the Gulf Coast.

Fort Pickens is one of four Southern forts never occupied by Confederate forces during the Civil War. It remained under Union control throughout the conflict and was the site of several skirmishes during the war.

Perhaps one of the most notable historical figures associated with Fort Pickens is Geronimo. In 1886, Geronimo and several fellow Apache warriors were imprisoned at the fort after their surrender to the U.S. Army. Their confinement at Fort Pickens marked a controversial chapter in Native American and military history.

Fort Pickens was used during the Spanish-American War, World War I and World War II. By the mid-20th century, however, advances in military technology had rendered the fort obsolete. It was decommissioned in 1947, and it became part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore under the management of the National Park Service in 1971.

Present Day

Today, Fort Pickens is a tourist destination known for its well-preserved architecture, natural surroundings and educational opportunities. Visitors can walk through the fort and explore its original casemates, gunrooms and tunnels. Interpretive signage and exhibits tell the story of the fort’s construction, military use and transition into a national park site.

Rangers and volunteers offer guided tours, and special events — such as living history demonstrations and night tours — are held throughout the year. A museum and bookstore are near the entrance.

The surrounding area offers campgrounds, biking trails and beach access. Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to see ospreys, shorebirds and sea turtles during nesting season.