Fort Morgan, a National Historic Landmark about 22 miles west of Gulf Shores, has guarded Mobile Bay since 1834. Enslaved African American masons were among those who built its brick walls, begun in 1819. Its predecessor, Fort Bowyer, withstood two British attacks in the War of 1812. Visitors can tour the fort's archways and museum. The site is known for the 1864 Battle of Mobile Bay, when Union Admiral David Farragut's fleet entered the heavily mined bay. The administration office is open Monday through Friday and the gift shop daily; check with the site for current hours. It is a historic site, not a camping park.