Old Fort Park
Interactive Park Map
About the Location
Historical Significance
Old Fort Park preserves the remnants of Fort Houstoun, an earthen fortification constructed in 1864 during the American Civil War. This square-shaped earthwork was part of the Confederate defenses designed to protect Florida's capital city from potential Union attacks.
The fort was built on land that was once part of the plantation owned by E.A. Houston, father of Captain Patrick Houston who commanded Confederate artillery at the Battle of Natural Bridge. While the fort never saw direct combat, it played a role in the overall defense strategy for Tallahassee.
Visitor Experience
Today, Old Fort Park serves as a quiet green space within a residential neighborhood. Visitors can see the well-preserved earthen walls of the fort, which offer a tangible connection to Tallahassee's Civil War history.
The park features interpretive markers that provide information about the fort's construction and historical context. The site is relatively small but offers a peaceful setting for reflection on local history.
Natural Setting
Trees now cover much of the area, creating a shaded environment quite different from the open fields that would have surrounded the fort during its active use in the 1860s.
