Fort Sumter National Monument is located in Charleston, South Carolina, and is a significant historical site that commemorates the beginning of the American Civil War. The monument consists of three historic sites, including Fort Sumter, Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island, and Charleston's Liberty Square.
Visitors can take a ferry ride to Fort Sumter and explore the fort's history through exhibits, ranger-led tours, and presentations. The fort's museum houses historical artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and other items used during the Civil War.
Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island is another site within the monument that visitors can explore. This site played a significant role in the Revolutionary War and was also used as a coastal defense during the Civil War.
Charleston's Liberty Square is the third site within the monument and is home to the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center. The center offers a variety of educational exhibits and programs that cover the history of the Civil War and the importance of Fort Sumter.
Interesting facts about the monument include that Fort Sumter was originally built as a coastal defense against foreign invasion and was unfinished when Confederate forces attacked it in 1861. Also, Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island was the site of the first victory for American Patriots in the Revolutionary War.
The best time to visit Fort Sumter National Monument is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. However, the monument is open year-round, so visitors can enjoy it anytime.