Visit Histortic Fort Anderson

Fort Anderson

After decades of calm, the site once again entered the forefront of history in a national storm, the Civil War. In 1861 the Confederate States of America decided to build a large fort at the site as part of the river defense of Wilmington. The Cape Fear was an essential route for supplies moving by rail from Wilmington to Petersburg and Richmond for General Lee's army.
The Confederate army used manual labor to construct the large sand fortification originally called Fort St. Philip's. There were two batteries, each with five cannons overlooking the shipping channel and providing protection to blockade runners.
In February 1865, following the fall of Fort Fisher at the mouth of the river, Union forces repositioned to attack Fort Anderson. Federals attacked from the land and river. After three days of fighting, the Confederates evacuated the fort at night. Union gunboats started firing at first light, unaware Federal soldiers were breaching the walls of the fort. The infantry frantically waved sheets and blankets to stop the deadly fire from their own forces. There was a one-day fight north of the site at Town Creek before the Federals occupied Wilmington on George Washington's birthday, February 22, 1865.

The Site Today

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, archaeologists uncovered foundations from Brunswick's earliest days. The most visible structure is the hulk of St. Philip's Anglican Church with its surviving walls dating back to 1754. Another interesting foundation is Russellborough, an old sea captain's house that was used by royal governors Tryon and Dobbs.
The visitor center houses several displays that cover the time periods of both the old town and the fort. In the lobby is a colorful mural created by Claude Howell and Catherine Hendricksen depicting a scene from a Spanish attack on the town in 1748. A cannon on display was recovered from the river in 1986 and is believed to be from the Spanish ship Fortuna, which blew up in the river as the townspeople regained control of the port.
The remains of homes, businesses, and other buildings bear witness to the story of Brunswick. Along with artifacts from the Civil War and the imposing mounds of Fort Anderson, this site offers a unique look at two fascinating periods of American history.

Downtown Swansboro

If you want to take up an entire afternoon or morning visiting downtown historic Swansboro is something that should not be missed! There are dozens of shops displaying and selling crafts and art along the shoreline and when you get tired of walking the restaurants are simply some of the most wonderful places to eat. Sit on the shore and enjoy a meal before embarking forward on your journey through downtown Swansboro.

Swansboro Downtown Market – The Downtown Market, open from mid-morning to mid-afternoon on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the warmer months of the year, offers hand-made, home-made, and home-grown products in Olde Towne Square in the heart of the Swansboro historic district. The market features high-quality baskets, hand-sewn and hand-woven quilts and blankets, unique and original jewelry, a variety of handmade wood products, plants, and other interesting items.  If you are interested in participating as a market vendor please call the Swansboro Chamber of Commerce office at (910) 326-1174.

Arts By the Sea -  This event is held annually on the second Saturday in June each year, featuring arts, crafts and entertainment.  Spend an early summer day walking the waterfront streets of downtown Swansboro and enjoy a glass of homemade lemonade.

July 4th Fireworks - A spectacular display of fireworks over the White Oak River.  Swansboro and Cedar Point partner to make this event one your sure to remember.  Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and  enjoy music by the sea before the grand event.  Food vendors in attendance.

The Mullet Festival - This annual event begins with a parade down Hwy 24 through Swansboro.  Following the parade make your way downtown where vendors of all types line the streets to display their goods.  Music is provided at different bandstands throughout the day.  Fun for all ages to be had.  Arts/crafts, kids area and of course a mullet fry.  Event dates are the second Saturday and Sunday in October.

Swansboro By Candlelight - Start your holiday shopping in downtown historic Swansboro.  Enjoy hot apple cider as you walk along streets lined with luminars.  Event date for 2012 to be determined.

Christmas Flotilla - Don't miss this spectacular parade of lights from the White Oak River.  Parade begins at dusk and remember Santa Claus is sure to make his way on deck for a special visit.  Held annually on the Friday evening after Thanksgiving.