Blog Layout

Thanksgiving at Fort Morgan Offers A Glimpse into History

OBA Staff • November 28, 2024

1912 Fort Morgan Thanksgiving highlighted community spirit

Aerial View of Fort Morgan

Fort Morgan, Ala. – (OBA) –   In 1912, while much of the nation gathered with loved ones for a cozy holiday feast, the soldiers stationed at Fort Morgan also celebrated Thanksgiving, though in quite different circumstances. Fort Morgan, a strategic military installation located at the mouth of Mobile Bay, has been home to various units over its long history, and 1912 was no exception. During that year, the fort was manned by several companies of the U.S. Coast Artillery, including a group responsible for managing a minelayer system to protect the vital waterways of Mobile Bay.


(See Menu Below)


Built in the early 1800s and named after Revolutionary War hero General Daniel Morgan, Fort Morgan played a key role in American military history. It served as a vital coastal defense site during the Civil War, most notably during the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, when Union forces led by Admiral David Farragut famously declared, “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!” The fort later remained a critical defense post into the early 20th century, reflecting the evolving threats that the United States faced.


By 1912, Fort Morgan was primarily occupied by the U.S. Coast Artillery Corps, and its importance had shifted to the management of harbor defenses in the era before World War I. Maintaining a military outpost like Fort Morgan was a continuous duty, with soldiers remaining on watch year-round, ready to respond at a moment's notice to any threat. But this did not mean they were without traditions, and Thanksgiving was no exception.


The Thanksgiving feast of 1912 at Fort Morgan was an opportunity for the soldiers to gather together, share a meal, and bring some normalcy into their otherwise rigid and disciplined lives. A look at the menu printed for the 170th Company of the Coast Artillery Corps that year provides insight into how the holiday was celebrated on the coast. The menu featured a rich variety of dishes, many of which utilized local ingredients, emphasizing the connection between the soldiers and their surroundings.


The meal began with olives and sweet pickles, followed by oyster soup—an ode to the Gulf's abundant seafood. The main course consisted of roast turkey accompanied by oyster dressing, giblet gravy, and cranberry sauce. Sides included staples like mashed potatoes, celery, creamed peas, and candied sweet potatoes—a hearty, comforting combination to give the soldiers a taste of home. Dessert was an indulgent selection that featured English plum pudding with brandy sauce, coconut cream pie, mixed candies, and assorted nuts. To wash it all down, the soldiers were offered claret punch and cocoa, with cigars and cigarettes rounding out the feast.


This menu highlighted how the cooks took advantage of the local bounty, particularly the oysters harvested from nearby waters. Oysters were an integral part of the feast, showing the influence of the fort’s coastal location on its culinary traditions.


Thanksgiving at Fort Morgan in 1912 was not just a meal; it was a moment for the men stationed at this distant outpost to pause and celebrate camaraderie, to find a sense of community even in isolation. The fort may have been a place of serious military duty, but the Thanksgiving feast brought warmth and connection to those far from home. This brief but meaningful reprieve from their daily routines reflected the enduring spirit of the holiday—a spirit of gratitude, no matter the circumstances.


As Fort Morgan remained an active part of America’s coastal defenses, these celebrations were a vital reminder of humanity amidst military life. Fort Morgan last served as a military post during World War II and was officially decommissioned in 1946. Fort Morgan was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960. It eventually became a historical attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Today, the remnants of Fort Morgan tell many stories of soldiers, battles, and quiet moments of normalcy like the Thanksgiving of 1912—an enduring tradition that brought a piece of home to the Gulf Coast’s storied fort.

1912 Fort Morgan Thanksgiving - Graphic from the Fort Morgan State Historic Site Facebook page

Share this article w/ Friends...

Flora-Bama Takes on New Meaning in Final Four
By OBA Staff March 31, 2025
Auburn will play Florida in the Final Four of the men's NCAA College Basketball Tournament. So it seems fitting that the ultimate game watch spot will be on the line at the Flora-Bama sports grill. Auburn defeated Michigan State by a score of 70-64 and punched their ticket to San Antonio for the big game. Now the SEC matchup between Alabama and Florida college teams makes the national championship more exciting for coastal fans.
Seven Days of Springtime Fun Across the Alabama Gulf Coast
By Jessica A. Taylor March 31, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – As March gives way to April, the Alabama Gulf Coast eases into a fresh rhythm that blends springtime energy with coastal calm. This week, there’s a full slate of activities stretching from land to sea, catering to locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of open-water fishing, the serenity of parasailing over crystal clear waters, or the excitement of local theater and family-friendly events, the Gulf Coast offers something for every pace and interest.
Backcountry Trail Competing Again for National Title
By R. Ken Cooper March 31, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is once again in the running for a national award. It is part of USA TODAY's 10Best Readers' Choice contest.
New Program Helps Coastal Homes Fight Erosion
By OBA Staff March 31, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The Pensacola and Perdido Bay Estuary Program (PPBEP) has launched a new Living Shoreline Assistance Program to help fight shoreline erosion and protect private property.
Camp Under the Stars on the Beach at the Gulf Shores State Park
By OBA Staff March 30, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – Gulf State Park invites families to the Spring Beach Campout. The cost is $45 per tent for up to four people, with additional guests at $5 each. A parking pass is included. This family-friendly event is open to adults and children of all ages. Participants under 18 must have a responsible adult with them. Families should bring their own food, nonalcoholic beverages, and camping essentials. All drinks must be in non-glass containers.
American Red Cross Hosts Blood Drive at Orange Beach City Hall
By OBA Staff March 30, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Orange Beach City Hall to help meet the ongoing need for blood donations. The drive will take place on Monday, March 31, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 4099 Orange Beach Blvd.
The City of Foley is Rebuilding its Urban Tree Canopy
By Guy Busby March 29, 2025
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – Foley is making progress in bringing back the trees lost nearly five years ago when Hurricane Sally hit the area. City crews have started replanting trees to help restore the urban forest.
Elberta German Sausage Festival Happening Today
By OBA Staff March 29, 2025
Elberta, Ala. – (OBA) – The Elberta German Sausage Festival kicks off today, March 29th at 8 am and runs until 5 pm. The Festival takes place at Elberta Town Park. This biannual event, held every March and October, celebrates Elberta's German heritage and supports the Elberta Volunteer Fire Department.
Orange Beach Honors Longtime Coach David McLain at During Opening Day Celebrations
By R. Ken Cooper March 28, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The City of Orange Beach kicked off its 2025 Baseball and Softball Season with a heartfelt tribute to longtime volunteer coach, David McLain. During the opening ceremony, Mayor Tony Kennon and the City Council surprised Coach McLain by dedicating Field 5 in his honor. Unaware of the plan, McLain read aloud the plaque's inscription at the center of Field 5, realizing the field now bears his name. He then threw the ceremonial first pitch, marking the official start of the season.
Lake Shelby Park from Google Maps
By OBA Staff March 28, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – The Gulf Shores & Orange Beach community will be celebrating this weekend at the inaugural L.O.L. Festival (Love Our Locals). The Festival kicks off today at the Gulf State Park’s Lake Shelby Picnic Area. This three-day event is dedicated to honoring local artists, musicians, food vendors, and businesses that make the coastal community thrive.
Show More
Share by: