We all know there are plenty of great hiking trails in Florida. When exploring some of the best hikes in Florida, you just may encounter a good dose of history that will remind you why the Sunshine State is so great. There are so many spots in our wonderful state that hold so much value and have so many fascinating stories – it can be hard to pass up an opportunity to explore! Today, we’re featuring a short hike that will take you to an abandoned Civil War fort in Florida. When you see the way that nature has reclaimed this place, you’ll be in awe. Lace up your hiking boots, because today, we’re exploring the West Martello Tower in Key West.
The history behind the West Martello Tower is one that will enchant all visitors.
Since this Civil War fort hike in Florida is fairly easy, it’s an experience that can be enjoyed by the whole family. There is a lot to see and learn about here!
While this isn’t a traditional “hike” by many people’s definition, there is plenty of walking. If you like your sightseeing served up with a history lesson on the side, this is the trail for you.
The Martello Towers were intended to be an important place along the ocean. Federal troops were meant to maintain their hold on the towers during the 1800s.
Since they are so close to the shoreline, the towers provided a perfect vantage point for troops to be able to view incoming ships headed towards the harbor.
Later, during the Spanish American War, the towers were once again used for quartering troops, signaling, and as an important lookout point.
In 1949, all the Army properties in Key West were released. The two towers became property of Monroe County, and Fort Taylor was obtained by the Navy.
Many people felt that the West Martello Tower was an eyesore along the shoreline. There was pressure to knock the historic tower down to make it into a beach.
However, the Key West Garden Club took an interest in the area in the early 1950s. Eventually, the West Martello Garden Center was declared a National Historic Site.
To this day, guests can take a hike through this abandoned Civil War fort in Florida. Stroll through the garden grounds and enjoy all the little pockets of nature that have reclaimed this abandoned place.
Many portions of the fort’s crumbling remains can still be seen all over the gardens. The nature that has sprouted up merges the old history with the natural beauty part of the Florida Keys.
The next time you’re down in the Florida Keys, make sure to visit the West Martello Tower. This is a great opportunity to explore history in Florida.
Check out this great video of a stroll through the West Martello Tower:
If you’d like to learn more about this Civil War fort hike in Florida, check out the Key West Garden Club website or Facebook page.
Have you ever visited the West Martello Tower in Key West, Florida? Share your experiences with us in the comments!
