Ship Island has got to be the most popular of Mississippi’s barrier islands. With white sandy beaches and pristine water, it’s a popular summertime spot for locals and tourists alike. And while the island’s tropical-esque attributes are amazing, they’re not all the island has to offer. In fact, it’s probably safe to say the barrier island is steeped in as much history as scenic beauty. Take a look:
It’s pretty common knowledge that Ship Island offers stretches of white sand and access to some of the most pristine water in the state.
Cliquot Fisher/TripAdvisor
Locals and tourists have been escaping to the island for years.
Ship Island Excursions/Facebook
It’s also widely known that Ship Island Excursions provides ferry service to and from the island.
Ship Island Excursions/Facebook The ferry departs from Gulfport Small Craft Harbor located at the intersection of Highway 49 and U.S. Highway 90 and Margaritaville Resort Biloxi. For more information, click here.
However, most are completely unaware of the important role the island played in the history and settlement of the coast. Dubbed the “Plymouth Rock of the Gulf Coast,” many colonists took their first steps on American soil at Ship Island.
United States Geological Survey/Wikimedia
The island’s history dates back to 1699, when it was named by French explorers who were “impressed with the protected, deep-water anchorage it offered their ships.” Soon after, it became a vital port for French Louisiana.
Harper’s Weekly - Son of the South/Wikimedia
Part of the island’s history is still visible today thanks to Fort Massachusetts, which is located on the island. Though the huge structure is visible as soon as you arrive on the island, most visitors don’t know much about it.
Micah L/TripAdvisor
Construction began on the fort in 1859 and was still underway when Mississippi seceded from the union in 1861. During the war, the island was occupied by union troops.
Edibobb/Wikimedia
According to records, more than 230 soldiers died from the “harsh environment on the island” and were buried on it. However, the remains were eventually relocated to Chalmette National Cemetery in Louisiana.
National Park Planner
Still standing after all these years (and several hurricanes), Fort Massachusetts is loaded with history and should definitely be explored while on Ship Island.
National Park Planner
Luckily the National Park Service gives FREE guided tours of the fort.
National Park Planner
Held May through October, the tours begin inside the fort soon after the Ship Island ferry docks at the island.
National Park Planner
During the tour, you’ll get to hear all about the fort’s past as well as explore its interior for yourself.
National Park Planner
For more information on visiting Ship Island, click here.
Cliquot Fisher/TripAdvisor
Ship Island Excursions/Facebook
The ferry departs from Gulfport Small Craft Harbor located at the intersection of Highway 49 and U.S. Highway 90 and Margaritaville Resort Biloxi. For more information, click here.
United States Geological Survey/Wikimedia
Harper’s Weekly - Son of the South/Wikimedia
Micah L/TripAdvisor
Edibobb/Wikimedia
National Park Planner
So, ever been to Ship Island? Toured Fort Massachusetts? Tell us about it in the comments section?
Learn about another island with an interesting past in “Most People Have No Idea There’s A Drowned Island Hiding In The Mississippi Gulf.“
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