Fort Condé in Mobile

Fort Condé lies at the heart of Mobile's historical roots that run as long and deep as the Gulf itself. Mobile stands out in helping the progress of Alabama's early development and playing a significant role as a major port on the Gulf. The history of Mobile predates that of the State of Alabama by more than 100 years.

Mobile was founded in 1702 on 27-Mile Bluff up river from its current location. In 1711, the city was moved to closer to the Gulf and a wooden fort was constructed to protect the town. The fort was called Fort Louis in honor of the King of France (Louis XIV). In 1723, a brick fort was started and it was renamed Fort Condé in honor of King Louis XIV's brother.

Fort Condé would protect the city and her citizens from the hazards of the still undeveloped wilderness of the region. It would stand guard for nearly 100 years (1723-1820). Fort Condé was built by the French to guard Mobile and the port from attacks by Britain and Spain. Mobile was an important military location for French since it was located on the foremost eastern corner of the Louisiana Colony. This region would later be part of the largest land purchase in American history.

Fort Condé was renamed multiple times as it fell into the hands of other nations. In 1763, the British captured the fort and renamed it Fort Charlotte. Spain would rule the city from 1780 to 1813 and changed the name once again to Fort Carlota. In 1813, the United States would take control of the city during the War of 1812. The fort was name was changed back to Fort Charlotte. In 1820, Washington issued the order for the fort to be destroyed to make room for progress. Fort Morgan and Fort Gaines had been erected directly on the tips of the bay which gave the defenders an advantage in protecting its waters and the city.

As a contribution to the US bicentennial celebration, a scaled version of Fort Condé was opened on July 4, 1976. Fort Condé is a partially reconstructed 1724-35 French fort. Fort Condé also features workable reproductions of 1740’s naval cannon and muskets. A museum inside houses artifacts from the site. Areas of the fort are furnished as officer’s and enlisted men’s quarters. Staffed with soldiers in French period uniforms. It is a great place to step back to the 1700s Alabama.

Fort Condé is located at 150 South Royal Street in downtown area of Mobile. Admission is free. For more info, visit http://www.museumofmobile.com/other_locs.php