Photo: Fort Morris-Come and Take It reenactment event. (Photo Credit: Georgia Department of Natural Resources)

DADE CO – Some sites around the state are being highlighted for visitors to experience Georgia’s war history in honor of Veterans Day.

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With Veterans Day coming up in November, some regional sites are being highlighted to where visitors can experience battle re-enactments and the remnants of Georgia’s war history in honor of this holiday, specifically in and around Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites and Dade County, GA.

Historic Banning Mills

At Historic Banning Mills military discounts are available anytime. Banning is proud to offer a 10% discount on activities or lodging to all military service members and veterans as a token of gratitude. Please call to book, as the staff needs to apply the discount during the reservation process. The discount is applicable to either lodging or activities. Banning extends a heartfelt thanks to all who have served and are currently serving!

American Legion Military Post 106 (Trenton, GA)

The American Legion Military Museum in Trenton, GA., features artifacts dating from the Revolutionary War through the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, with special emphasis on personal displays of local residents during World War II, Korea and Vietnam. This museum is fully operated by volunteers in the community and involves an interactive element. The museum is open Saturdays from 9AM until 2PM and other times by special appointment. The Post Cafe is open Monday through Saturday from 6AM to 11AM. Admission is free.

5 Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites to Visit on Veteran’s Day

Did you know that in addition to hiking trails, rivers, lakes and mountains, Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites are home to several remnants of forts and earthworks that date back as early as the 17^th century? Here, history doesn’t just live on plaques and markers in these locations, it literally comes alive with re-enactments and special events throughout the year. In honor of Veteran’s Day on November 11^th, here are five Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites to visit that highlight the history of Georgia’s earliest battles. Find more about Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites’ history at GaStateParks.org/History. 

Pickett’s Mill Battlefield Historic Site – GaStateParks.org/PickettsMillBattlefield

In May 1864, the Confederate troops at Pickett’s Mill fought for victory of the battlefield against the Federal Army, resulting in a week-delay of the Federal advance on Atlanta. Today, the Pickett’s Mill Battlefield Historic Site is one of the best-preserved Civil War battlefields in the nation. Travel roads used by Federal and Confederate troops, see earthworks, and walk through the same ravine where hundreds died. One of two original cannons used during this battle is now on display in the museum, on loan from Atlanta History Center. Stay overnight nearby at Red Top Mountain State Park’s cabins or campground.

Fort King George Historic Site – GaStateParks.org/FortKingGeorge

Tour the oldest English fort remaining on Georgia’s coast at Fort King George, which was the southern outpost of the British Empire in North America from 1721 until 1736. The on-site museum offers a film detailing the 18^th and 19^th century history of Fort King George, including Guale Indians, the Santo Domingo de Talaje mission, Fort King George, the Scots of Darien and 19th century sawmilling.

Fort Morris Historic Site – GaStateParks.org/FortMorris

In the late 1700s, the Continental Congress fortified barracks on the Medway River at Sunbury to protect the seaport from the British. When the British demanded the fort’s surrender on November 25, 1778, the defiant Col. John McIntosh replied, “Come and take it!” The British refused and withdrew back to Florida, but 45 days later, they returned with a superior force, and on January 9, 1779, Fort Morris fell after a short but heavy bombardment. Stand within the earthwork remains and view scenic Saint Catherine’s Sound. A museum and film describe the colonial port of Sunbury and the site’s history.

Fort McAllister State Park – GaStateParks.org/FortMcAllister

Located south of Savannah on the banks of the Ogeechee River, For McAllister State Park showcases the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. Despite being attacked seven times by Union ironclads, the fort didn’t fall until 1864—ending General William T. Sherman’s “March to the Sea.” Explore the cannons, a furnace, bombproof, barracks, palisades and other remains of the battlefield, and admire artifacts in the Civil War museum. This scenic state park includes cabins, camping, walking trails and fishing piers.

Georgia Veteran’s State Park – GaStateParks.org/GeorgiaVeterans

For U.S. Veterans, Georgia Veteran’s State Park can’t be missed, as it was established as a memorial specifically to them. Visit the park’s museum that features armored vehicles, uniforms, weapons, medals and other items from the Revolutionary War through the Gulf War—including the Boeing B-29A aircraft.

Disabled Veterans

Disabled veteran discounts are established by Georgia Code 12-3-9.1. Disabled veterans who are Georgia residents AND present a Certificate of Eligibility card are entitled to a 25% discount on individual accommodations, recreation fees such as mini-golf and boat rental, golf fees and historic site admission. Limited to one accommodation per person. When making online reservations, the full fee will be charged to your credit card. Upon check-in and presenting your Certificate of Eligibility card, you will be reimbursed for your discount. Learn more about how to receive a certificate of eligibility card.