Trip Planner: USA / Georgia / Georgia Coast / Golden Isles of Georgia / Saint Simons Island / Historic Sites / Bloody Marsh

Bloody Marsh, Saint Simons Island

2.6

#5 of 6 in Historic Sites in Golden Isles of Georgia

Battlefield Tourist Spot

The Battle of Bloody Marsh was a battle that took place on July 7, 1742 between Spanish and British forces on St. Simons Island, part of the Province of Georgia, resulting in a victory for the British. Part of a much larger conflict known as the War of Jenkins' Ear, the battle was for the British fortifications of Fort Frederica and Fort St. Simons, with the strategic goal the sea routes and inland waters they controlled. With the victory, the Province of Georgia established undisputed claim to the island. It is now part of the U.S. state of Georgia. The British also won the Battle of Gully Hole Creek, which took place on the island the same day.BackgroundJames Oglethorpe led the colonization of Georgia for Great Britain, and had chosen Savannah as the principal port for the new colony. In the 1730s, Spain and Great Britain were disputing control of the border between Georgia and La Florida, where the Spanish had several settlements and forts.Given a heightened threat of Spanish invasion, Oglethorpe sought to increase his southern defenses. Accompanied by rangers and two Native American guides, Oglethorpe picked St. Simons Island as the site for a new town and fort. In 1734, Oglethorpe convinced the Parliament and the colonial trustees to pay for a military garrison at the fort.

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83 reviews

davidmT1170HL

The island is small and this stop is on the main road. Stop in and learn a little Georgia history. A good 10-15 minute stop, Interesting info about the soldiers uniforms and who came from where. more »
Susan I

Visit the Bloody Marsh site AFTER you go to Fort Frederica (unless you know your Georgia history). There are a few markers and an amazing view of the swamp, but not much else. Definitely worth a stop,... more »
Claudette C

On a recent girls trip we visited the Bloody Marsh which is a key piece of history in regards to Spanish vs British rule. The site is well maintained and outlines the story well. I would recommend thi... more »