Fort Moultrie Sullivans Island SC(Plan Your Visit)
Historic Fort Moultrie, located on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, is one of the most iconic forts in the history of Charleston and the United States. Fort Moultrie, originally called Ft Sullivan, played a crucial role in repelling the British from seizing Charleston, originally known as Charles Towne, at the start of the Revolutionary War.
A day trip to Fort Moultrie and the iconic Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse is easy, as they are within walking distance of one another! Fort Sumter is just a few hundred yards out in the Charleston Harbor for easy viewing.
Fort Moultrie’s history as an operational fort extended well into the 20th century. It is now a National Historical Park.
Fort Moultrie was initially constructed of Palmetto Tree logs because Palmettos were abundant on the Island. The soft nature of the logs allowed them to absorb the cannonballs fired from the British warships trying to enter Charleston Harbor. The cannonballs did not explode as if they were striking stone or hardwood.
Fort Moultrie Quick Info
Best For: History, Revolutionary War & Civil War sites
Location: Sullivan’s Island, SC
Hours: Typically open daily (check seasonal hours)
Tickets: Included with National Park Service admission
Fort Moultrie Visitor Information
- Address (mailing address listed by NPS): 1214 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482
- Hours: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm daily
- Phone: (843) 883-3123
- Get The Latest Information On Fort Moultrie At The Official NPS Website
Map of Historic Sites On Sullivan’s Island
What Is Fort Moultrie Known For?
Part of Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
Defended Charleston Harbor for over 170 years
Key site in the Revolutionary War
Civil War coastal defense fort
Where Is Fort Moultrie Located?
Fort Moultrie is located on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, just a short drive from Charleston and near the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse.
A Brief History of Fort Moultrie(1776 and Later)
Though the fort was hastily constructed and incomplete at the time of the battle, the British Fleet eventually sailed away. Had the British been able to seize Charles Towne at the opening of the Revolutionary War, the war’s outcome would probably have been much different. At the time, Charles Towne was one of the colonies’ largest, wealthiest, and most important cities. The loss of Charles Towne would have been devastating for the Colonials.
The commander of the Fort during the battle was Colonel William Moultrie. So, the Fort is renamed in his honor for the heroic defense of Charles Towne.
Another hero of the fight was Sergeant William Jasper, who climbed the wall of the Fort to retrieve the flag the British had shot down. The Fort Moultrie flag flew over the Fort for the rest of the battle. This act of courage under fire raised the morale of the troops as they continued to fight the British. In his honor, they named one of the main streets on Sullivan’s Island – Jasper’s Street.
The Seminole Indian chief, Osceola, who led the Indian resistance to their removal from Florida, was imprisoned here. However, his captivity here was only brief, as he passed away a few months later. Osceola’s grave is located outside the main entrance to the fort.
Although there have been several incarnations of the fort over the centuries. Most of these versions can still be toured when you visit Fort Moultrie. However, the original Palmetto log fort is no longer standing.
Fort Moultrie vs. Fort Sumter Comparison Chart
| Feature | Fort Moultrie | Fort Sumter |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Sullivan’s Island | Charleston Harbor |
| Access | Drive-in | Boat only |
| Best For | Easy visit, history | Iconic landmark |
Sullivan’s Island & Nearby Attractions
Explore historic landmarks, waterfront attractions, and popular Charleston destinations located near Sullivan’s Island.
Battery Thomson: A Hidden Piece of Sullivan’s Island History
While Fort Moultrie is Sullivan’s Island’s most famous historic site, many visitors overlook Battery Thomson on the island’s north end. This waterfront location marks the area where American forces established defenses during the Revolutionary War and helped protect Charleston Harbor during the Battle of Sullivan’s Island in 1776.
Today, Battery Thomson offers visitors a chance to explore a lesser-known piece of Charleston’s military history while enjoying some of the best harbor views on the island. The site is free to visit and provides excellent views of Charleston Harbor, Fort Sumter, and ships entering and leaving the harbor.
For history enthusiasts, Battery Thomson complements a visit to Fort Moultrie by providing additional insight into Sullivan’s Island’s role in defending Charleston. Its peaceful setting, historical significance, and scenic waterfront location make it one of the island’s hidden gems.
Fort Sumter
A Brief History of Fort Sumter, SC
Fort Sumter, located in Charleston Harbor, played a significant role in US history. When South Carolina seceded from the Union, the Federal Army garrison at Fort Moultrie relocated to Fort Sumter. The Civil War began with shots fired at Fort Sumter from Fort Moultrie and Fort Johnson on James Island.
Why was Fort Sumter’s Location Important
Due to its strategic location, control of Fort Sumter was vital for the Confederate and Union sides. If the opposing side controlled the fort, neither side could safely enter the harbor with naval or cargo ships. Thus, the Union and Confederate armies competed to control this crucial location in Charleston Harbor. The battle for Fort Sumter’s control lasted almost the entire Civil War.
Visit The Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse
Explore More on Sullivan’s Island
Fort Moultrie is just one of the historic and scenic attractions on Sullivan’s Island. While visiting this Revolutionary War landmark overlooking Charleston Harbor, consider exploring these nearby destinations:
Looking for more attractions? See our complete guide to things to do on Sullivan’s Island.
- Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse (Charleston Light)
Discover the modern triangular lighthouse at the entrance to Charleston Harbor. Learn about its 1962 construction, best photo spots, and nearby beach access. - Fort Sumter National Historical Park
Take a ferry tour to the site where the Civil War began. Fort Sumter pairs perfectly with a visit to Fort Moultrie for a complete Charleston Harbor history experience. - Sullivan’s Island Beach Access & Parking Guide
Planning time by the water? Review parking regulations, beach access points, and visitor tips before you go. - Sullivan’s Island Restaurants
After touring Fort Moultrie, enjoy fresh seafood, waterfront dining, and Lowcountry cuisine at nearby island restaurants. - Things to Do on Sullivan’s Island
Explore beaches, historic sites, outdoor activities, and local attractions across the island.
A vacation on Sullivan’s Island would not be complete without visiting Ft Moultrie. Find a hotel near Sullivan’s Island for your visit to Fort Moultrie. Hotels on Isle Of Palms and hotels in Mount Pleasant, SC.
Make sure to take the time to visit the Charleston Light, also known as The Sullivan Lighthouse, which is located only blocks from Fort Moultrie. Charleston Light is a unique lighthouse among others for several reasons. See why the original color of the lighthouse caused a stir with island residents and had to be repainted in the black and white colors you see today.
Fort Sumter is open to visitors and is only accessible by boat. Boats to the fort leave from downtown Charleston and Patriots Point in Mt. Pleasant. Spend a few hours enjoying a boat ride and visit. Anyone interested in the history of the United States or The Civil War must see Sumter.
More about Sullivan’s Island rentals, dining, fishing charters, the Sullivan’s Island beach, and the Triangle Light.
Find Hotels Near Sullivan’s Island
Planning a beach trip to Sullivan’s Island? Hotels in nearby Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston provide convenient access to the island while offering a wide variety of accommodations.
Many visitors choose Mount Pleasant because it is only minutes from the bridge to Sullivan’s Island and has numerous restaurants, shops, and waterfront views along Shem Creek. Find Hotels In Mount Pleasant, SC.
Before visiting the beach, check hotel availability near Sullivan’s Island to compare prices and find the best accommodations for your stay. Hotels Near Sullivan’s Island.
Check availability for hotels near Sullivan’s Island. Explore The History Of The Island On A Sullivan’s Golf Cart Rental. Find parking near Sullivan’s Island Beach Access Points.