Feb/March events at Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson State Historic Site
From Living History, to cannon fire at night to a celebration of Gullah-Getchee culture, the Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson State Historic Site is roaring into spring with something for everyone. One of the most beautiful spots in Brunswick County, Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson is located off N.C.133 between Belville and Southport at 8884 St. Philip's Road SE.
After the fall of Fort Fisher, Fort Anderson became the last obstacle to Union troops moving to Wilmington from the south. This February marks the 158th Anniversary of the fall of Fort Fisher and the historic site is commemorating the event with a day of educational fun on Saturday, Feb 18.
From 10 am - 3 pm, visitors can experience artillery firings, infantry demonstrations, a lecture given by a local historian, and living history throughout the day. This is a free event.
That evening, the night sky will come alive with a realistic reenactment of the bombardment and evacuation of the Fort. This event will be a rare opportunity to witness a heavy artillery duel. Site Director Jim Mckee said, “For all intents and purposes we are condensing the whole battle for Fort Anderson into about 45 minutes to an hour. We plan to have three guns (including the 32-pdr) firing in the fort; and they will be opposed by several guns located in the town, opposite the fort, and they will simulate the US Navy.” After the cannon fire, infantry will pour over the wall and into the fort. (We experienced this event in 2020 and can tell you it is truly impressive).
Next month, on Saturday, March 4, Brunswick Town will host the North Carolina Rice Festival from 10 am - 6 pm, celebrating the rice cultivation and culture of the Gullah-Getchee people. Activities will include history and cultural presentations, tours, demonstrations, live entertainment, family fun, a children’s stage, Gullah Geechee food vendors, and arts and crafts.
Last year’s Rice Festival was held on the Leland Cultural Arts Center lawn and was a huge success. We can’t wait to experience all the fun again amongst the history and beauty of the Brunswick Town-Fort Anderson Historic Site. There is no charge for admission tot he Rice Festival. Visit https://www.northcarolinaricefestival.org/ for more information.
