The Bloody Marsh Battle Site commemorates the battle between British and Spanish forces that took place on St. Simons Island on July 7, 1742. Stroll around the open-air interpretive site and learn about the strategies employed by both sides as they fought over this critical Georgia territory. Gaze across the open marshland and consider the events that took place here on that summer day in the mid-18th century.
Enter the site via a side road and begin your exploration of the fascinating historic spot. Grassy hummocks bound by broad marshland make up the majority of the area. Walk to the large stone monument that sits beneath a tall old tree. Resting on a pedestal, this obelisk bears a plaque that commemorates the victory by General James Oglethorpe and his soldiers. Read the quote by the renowned military leader and imagine the series of events that led to the battle.
View the markers and information panels that help to tell the story of what happened on this site. The Spanish Governor Don Manuel de Montiano had launched a retaliatory campaign for Georgia’s territory from his base in Florida. His forces were driven back by Oglethorpe in a clash known as the Battle of Gully Hole Creek. Anticipating a second attack, Oglethorpe split his small force into three groups and posted them strategically around the marsh you see today. When the Spanish passed through this site, the English troops held them off until their opponents ran out of ammunition and had to retreat.
Wander around the site and consider the contrast between a warm afternoon in this placid marsh and the intensity of a bloody ambush. It is believed that the Battle of Bloody Marsh convinced Governor Montiano to withdraw his campaign for Georgia’s territory once and for all.
The Bloody Marsh Battle Site, part of the Fort Frederica National Monument, is a 15-minute drive from the Fort Frederica Visitor Center. It is located on the southern end of St. Simons Island. The battle site is open daily, except select holidays. Visit the site for free.