The Fort Pickens Story

After winning independence from Great Britain, the United States recognized the need for a cohesive system of national defense. A board of military engineers was appointed to design a series of coastal fortifications. In 1817, a construction program began which would continue for over sixty years. With the cession of Florida to the United States by Spain in 1821, planning for the protection of this new stretch of national coastline began. Fort Pickens was an integral part of this defense system. Includes historic photographs and illustrations. Softcover; 24 pages.