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Civil War Living History
Fort Delaware is one of Delaware's first state parks, created in
1951. On the National Register of
Historic Places, the Union fortress dates back to 1859, and once served as a
prison for Confederate prisoners of war. It was originally built to protect the
ports of Wilmington and Philadelphia. The State of Delaware acquired the Fort
from the Federal Government in 1947.
From the parking area in Delaware City, visitors take a ½ -mile ferry ride to
Pea Patch Island aboard the DRBA's Three Fort Ferry. A jitney
provides transport from the island dock to the granite and brick fortress. Here,
authentically-clad historic interpreters begin your journey back to the summer
of 1863.
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Three Fort Ferry Passenger Fees |
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Adults |
$6 |
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Children 2 - 12 |
$4 |
 Your day will
be filled with hands-on history, which might include helping the blacksmith
hammer out new parts for a cannon or working with the laundress. Watch our
8-inch Columbiad gun fire a live gunpowder charge! Our orientation room contains
a diorama of Pea Patch Island as it appeared in 1864, and nearby exhibits
contain artifacts from the Island's past.
Make a day of it — there is a food concession stand on the
island. And if you like, you can bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in our picnic
area - tables and grills are provided.
 Your
regular admission fee allows you to travel on to Fort Mott State Park on the New
Jersey side as well. Near there is Finn's Point National Cemetery, the final
resting-place for 2,400 Confederate prisoners who died at Fort Delaware. Consult
the park office for a ferry schedule and a listing of special events and
programs.
Please note that no pets are allowed on Pea Patch Island
and there are no private docking facilities. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited
on Pea Patch Island.
Natural Treasures
Pea Patch Island also features many natural treasures. The
island is a summer home to nine different species of herons, egrets, and ibis.
The remote marshes provide an outstanding habitat for one of the largest wading
bird nesting areas on the East Coast. A hiking trail and its observation
platform provide opportunities for photography and nature study.
From river crossing to ramparts, Fort Delaware State Park
promises an unforgettable experience each time you visit.
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