© Stuart Pearl 2012 - Click on Image for Slideshow
That's how many bricks it took to build Fort
Pulaski on the coast of Georgia back in the early 1800's.
It's hard to grasp such a large number. But it becomes more meaningful
when you see the graceful shapes and curving designs created by all those
bricks.
During our May visit to this part of the South we saw beautiful archways, deep alcoves, broad walls and vaulted ceilings as we strolled through this pre Civil War fort.
Located outside of Savannah, Fort Pulaski is one of 30 coastal fortifications built in the first quarter of the 19th Century. It was designed to repel enemy canon attack from the sea and surrounding marshes. Its main goal was to protect the river approaches to Savannah since that port city was vital to the cotton and lumber trade.
As part of what was called the Third System Forts, Pulaski was far stronger than earlier designs. Most of those built after 1816 still stand today. This particular fort took 18 years to build and cost $1,000,000 when it was started in 1829.
In April 1861 the Civil war reached the Savannah River in Georgia.The fort was supposed to protect the river mouth but quickly fell to Union bombardment.
Fort Pulaski is now part of the national parks system.
The lighthouse and its five support buildings are now surrounded by modern condos. But for over 270 years its beacon helped sailors safely enter the Savannah River.
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