There's A Lot More To This Mississippi Island Than Beautiful Beaches And Pristine Water
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published July 10, 2018
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
Ship Island has got to be the most popular of Mississippi’s barrier islands. With white sandy beaches and pristine water, it’s a popular summertime spot for locals and tourists alike. And while the island’s tropical-esque attributes are amazing, they’re not all the island has to offer. In fact, it’s probably safe to say the barrier island is steeped in as much history as scenic beauty. Take a look:
It’s pretty common knowledge that Ship Island offers stretches of white sand and access to some of the most pristine water in the state.
The ferry departs from Gulfport Small Craft Harbor located at the intersection of Highway 49 and U.S. Highway 90 and Margaritaville Resort Biloxi. For more information, click here.
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However, most are completely unaware of the important role the island played in the history and settlement of the coast. Dubbed the "Plymouth Rock of the Gulf Coast," many colonists took their first steps on American soil at Ship Island.
The island’s history dates back to 1699, when it was named by French explorers who were "impressed with the protected, deep-water anchorage it offered their ships." Soon after, it became a vital port for French Louisiana.
Part of the island’s history is still visible today thanks to Fort Massachusetts, which is located on the island. Though the huge structure is visible as soon as you arrive on the island, most visitors don’t know much about it.
Construction began on the fort in 1859 and was still underway when Mississippi seceded from the union in 1861. During the war, the island was occupied by union troops.
According to records, more than 230 soldiers died from the "harsh environment on the island" and were buried on it. However, the remains were eventually relocated to Chalmette National Cemetery in Louisiana.
Still standing after all these years (and several hurricanes), Fort Massachusetts is loaded with history and should definitely be explored while on Ship Island.
