As a city that is nearly 325 years old, Mobile has plenty of stories to tell. Our military history offers some of the most dynamic and rich narratives that add to Mobile’s culture. Explore US military history embedded in the heart of Mobile, AL, from historic forts to battleships.

 

Historic Forts of Mobile

Mobile, AL, is home to several historic forts that have played significant roles in the nation's military history. Colonial Fort Conde, originally built by the French in 1723, protected the city from invaders and now serves as a museum showcasing the colonial era. Another notable fort is Dauphin Island’s Historic Fort Gaines, a key site during the Battle of Mobile Bay in the Civil War.

Visiting these forts offers a window into the past, allowing visitors to walk through the same grounds where soldiers once stood guard. The preserved architecture and informative displays provide a deep understanding of Mobile’s role in various conflicts.

 


The USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park

One of Mobile's most iconic military attractions is the USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park. The park features the USS ALABAMA, a World War II battleship that served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. Visitors can explore the ship's decks, gun turrets, and living quarters to get a sense of what life was like for the sailors who served on board.

In addition to the USS Alabama, the park hosts the submarine USS DRUM and a collection of military aircraft, tanks and other vehicles. The USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park also features memorials for the Korean and Vietnam Wars, service dogs that served in combat and Alabamians who have given their lives in service since the September 11, 2001 attacks.

 


Museum Exhibits

Several museums in Mobile feature exhibits dedicated to military history and offer immersive experiences for visitors. The History Museum of Mobile, for example, includes sections on the city's military past, with artifacts ranging from colonial times to modern conflicts. The National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico explores the histories of various ships and vessels that explored the waters of the Gulf. One of the most intriguing exhibits details the tragic fate of the Civil War submarine, HL HUNLEY.