4. Fort Perry
Constructed between 1805 and 1810, the Federal Road was defended by several forts. Fort Perry, built of wood with an earthen embankment, was constructed in 1813. Though the fort no longer exists, aerial images of the site reveal an eight-sided star-shaped design unusual in both Southern and US forts.
Google Earth image shows the outline of Fort Perry’s eight-sided design. Source: Google Earth 2016.
Fort Perry served as a supply fort for the forces of General John Floyd during the Creek War, also known as the Red Stick War of 1813-1814. This regional war was fought amongst various Creek factions, British and Spanish empires, and the United States. At Fort Perry, troops were garrisoned to help insure safe passage for travelers along the Federal Road. Forts constructed along the Federal Road were designed for quick construction because they provided tactical and strategic stations. Having met the needs of the campaign, they were then left to fall to disrepair. This fort saw minimal use during the Creek War. In 1834, Fort Perry was still identified as a location on the map of Marion County.
Submission composed by Chris O’Pry, April 15, 2016
References and Further Reading
Daniel T. Elliott, Mike Bunn, Don Gordy, and Terry Jackson, Fort Perry Reconnaissance, Marion County, Georgia. Savannah, GA: LAMAR Institute Publication Series, 1990, Report Number 164.
National Register of Historic Places, Fort Perry, Marion County, Georgia, National Register #775000601.