What were the causes of the Battle of Fort Wagner?

Fort Wagner, part of the formidable Confederate defenses of Charleston Harbor, was built on Morris Island on the south edge of the bay. The fort's 30-foot high earth and sand filled walls protected 14 heavy artillery pieces that could bear on attackers or warships trying to enter the harbor. read more

Fort Wagner was one of the forts protecting the entrance to Charleston, SC. There were at least two battles for the fort. Here’s an excellent summation of them, the troops and the casualties. read more

The First Battle of Fort Wagner, occurred on July 11, 1863. Only 12 Confederate soldiers were killed, as opposed to 339 losses for the U.S. side. The Second Battle of Fort Wagner, a week later, is better known. read more

The Second Battle of Fort Wagner, also known as the Second Assault on Morris Island or the Battle of Fort Wagner, Morris Island, was fought on July 18, 1863, during the American Civil War. Union Army troops commanded by Brig. Gen. Quincy Gillmore, launched an unsuccessful assault on the Confederate fortress of Fort Wagner, which protected Morris Island, south of Charleston Harbor. read more

Our Battle of Fort Wagner page that includes history articles, information on the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, battle maps, historic and modern photos, helpful web links, and recommended books for this important 1863 battle in South Carolina. read more