Fort Walton
Fort Walton (1861-1862) - First established as a Confederate fortification in 1861 by Florida Militia, 1st Florida Infantry, during the U.S. Civil War. Initially named Camp Walton after Colonel George Walton, secretary of West Florida (1821-1822), but popularly known as Fort Walton. Located in present day Fort Walton Beach, in Okaloosa County, Florida. Abandoned in 1862 after the fall of Pensacola.
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Fort Walton History
This fort was constructed to guard the east pass leading into Pensacola Bay in 1861. The post was established by troops of the 1st Florida Infantry in present day Fort Walton Beach. The location was previously the site of an Indian burial mound that was used as a ceremonial center from about 12000 AD to 1700 AD. The post was built at the base of the mound on an Indian plaza.
Pensacola fell to Union forces in May 1862 and Fort Walton was abandoned on 26 Aug 1862. The garrison of 1st Forida Infantry troops was sent to Tennessee.
Current Status
Part of Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa County, Florida. A single period cannon is on display. This 18-pounder cannon was sent from Fort Barrancas by General Braxton Bragg to arm this fort after it was shelled by Union artillery in 1861. The cannon was spiked and buried when the fort was abandoned in 1862. Recovered on site.
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Location: Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa County, Florida. Maps & Images Lat: 30.404177 Long: -86.607317 |
Sources:
- Roberts, Robert B., Encyclopedia of Historic Forts: The Military, Pioneer, and Trading Posts of the United States, Macmillan, New York, 1988, 10th printing, ISBN 0-02-926880-X, page 212
Links:
Visited: 12 Jan 2012
Fort Walton Picture Gallery
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