Fort Sumter National Monument [SC]
The Fort Sumter National Monument commemorates the official initiation of fire of the Civil War. April 12, 1861, the Confederates directed the first shot at the Union's Fort Sumter, located in the Charleston Harbor. Exhibits discuss the growing tensions between the North and the South and their eventual turn to civil war, as well as the physical and social history of the fort itself. Also on location is the site of the first U.S. victory over the British Navy, which occurred at Fort Moultrie in 1776.
The monument offerings differ at each fort. Fort Moultrie offers a 22minute introductory video at the visitor center, exhibits, selfguided tours, limited rangerled programming, and Junior Ranger activities. Fort Sumter offers 10minute talks by park rangers aboard the ferry, exhibits, selfguided tours, and Junior Ranger activities. Reservations are required for school groups at both sites. The website offers lists of relevant state education standards, lesson plans, activities, a teacher's guide, photo galleries, and a webcam.