Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site

Imagine a place where time seems to stand still among mighty live oaks draped in mystical Spanish moss. Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site is a unique archaeological park in the USA, located on the scenic banks of the Cape Fear River. Here, near the city of Wilmington, the ruins of the region's first European settlement stand alongside the remains of a powerful 19th-century fortification.

This complex is a true treasure trove for history buffs. Visitors can see the ruins of St. Philip’s Church, the foundations of colonial governors' mansions, and the impressive earthwork fortifications of Fort Anderson. With a high rating (4.7 based on hundreds of reviews), this site is recognized as one of the most atmospheric historical locations in North Carolina.

The visitor center offers a museum exhibition featuring artifacts found during archaeological excavations: from old cannonballs and bullets to everyday household items. The combination of stoic military history, a colonial past, and peaceful nature makes a visit here an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

For more details before your trip, you can use the following contact information. Please note that the official website is the primary source for the latest news on events and any changes to the schedule.

The main activity here is taking leisurely strolls along marked trails that lead through the centuries. You can see the ruins of St. Philip’s Church with your own eyes, where the brick walls still bear the marks of past events. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to explore the foundation of the Russellborough mansion, while those interested in military engineering can examine the massive earthworks of Fort Anderson.

In the visitor center's exhibition hall, be sure to take time for the artifact collection. It features archaeological finds such as uniform buttons, old coins, and pieces of weaponry that help bring history to life in your imagination. Educational programs and living history demonstrations are frequently held here, allowing you to literally touch the past.

If you are looking for tranquility, head to the shoreline. The picturesque views of the Cape Fear River and the shade of ancient oaks create ideal conditions for photography and birdwatching. Many tourists bring picnic baskets to enjoy a meal in the fresh air, surrounded by the historical landscape and the peace and quiet of this location.

Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site is located approximately 20–25 minutes from downtown Wilmington on the west bank of the Cape Fear River. The drive from the city follows US-17 S (River Road); from there, follow the signs to the turn-off for St. Phillips Church Rd. Free parking is provided for visitors on-site.

Public transportation is virtually non-existent in this rural area, so the most convenient way to reach the site is by personal car, taxi, or Uber. The nearest international airport, ILM (Wilmington International), is about a 30-minute drive away.

If you are planning a summer visit, it is best to arrive in the morning to avoid the midday heat. In winter, be aware that trails can be slightly damp after rain, so wearing comfortable, waterproof shoes is recommended.

The history of this site began in June 1726, when Colonel Maurice Moore founded Brunswick Town. The settlement quickly grew into a prosperous colonial port and even served as the residence for two of North Carolina's governors. It was here in 1765 that some of the first acts of civil disobedience against the British "Stamp Act" took place, as local patriots openly defied royal officials.

The town's fate was tragic: in 1776, it was largely destroyed by fire during military movements. The town never recovered, was eventually abandoned by the 1830s, and was sold for the symbolic sum of $4.25. However, the ruins regained strategic importance in 1862 when Fort Anderson was constructed on the site—a massive earthwork fortification designed to protect the approaches to Wilmington during the internal conflict in the USA.

In the mid-20th century, starting in 1958, archaeologist Stanley South began large-scale excavations here. Thanks to his work, thousands of artifacts were unearthed, allowing for the reconstruction of daily life in the colonial port. Today, the site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is carefully preserved as a monument to two different eras.

To see all the key sites at a leisurely pace, most visitors need between 2 and 3 hours. This is enough time to spend about 45 minutes in the museum and visitor center, followed by a walk along the scenic trails leading to the church ruins and the fort's earthworks.

If you are an avid photographer or plan to have a small picnic on the banks of the Cape Fear River, you should set aside about 4 hours for your visit. During days with historical reenactments or special lectures, the duration of your stay may increase, as the event programs are usually quite extensive.

The complex is typically open to the public from Tuesday through Saturday. Working hours are from 09:00 to 17:00. Please note that the grounds and museum are closed to the public on Mondays and Sundays.

It is recommended to plan your arrival no later than 30–45 minutes before closing to ensure you have time to see at least the main part of the exhibition. Before visiting on holidays, be sure to check the official website, as the schedule may change depending on public holidays or weather conditions.

The surrounding area offers many interesting sites to make your trip even more fulfilling. After immersing yourself in colonial history, you can head to the ocean coast or enjoy entertainment for the whole family.

Below are some attractions located relatively close to the historic site: