This was the second time time I had visited the ocean facing fort in Florida. It has scenes and subjects that make for great, interesting, photographs.

Started in 1847 the structure is completely brick, built into the dunes of the Florida shore.

The fort was built to protect the St. Mary and Amelia river access. During the War Of 1812 (more coming) the British navy used the US rivers as they wanted, which of course caused all sorts of problems given that we were at war… again.

When I found the connection to the 1812 War I decided to dig into it for a little info. For none US readers the War Of 1812 is a ‘Oh By The Way’ footnote in the countries history. I’ve always loved history and it is hardly mentioned.

Now I get it. Fast forward to today and it makes as much sense, has as many differing opinions, and diverse players imaginable. There seems to be ‘fake news’ as well.

Players included the new USA, Britain, what is now Canada, every Native American tribe picked a side, and France as well as Spain joined in. For additional confusion click here.

Below, back to Fort Clinch.

So, 1812 caused this to be built, it has been occupied by different armies, never a shot fired. As you can see this is a hot, sandy, wind blown, desolate location (then).

When the structure of the fort was fully renovated they completed the inside wall tunnels and living /storage areas. Sometimes inside renovations and presentations like this can be ‘corny’ but not here.

At this site the period furnishings are simple, and great to photograph. As I dig through the images additional images will be published.