A major pre-Revolutionary port on North Carolina's Cape Fear River, Brunswick was razed by British troops in 1776 and never rebuilt. During the Civil War, Fort Anderson was constructed atop the old village site, and served as part of the Cape Fear River defenses below Wilmington before the fall of the Confederacy. Colonial foundations dot the present-day tour trail, which crosses the earthworks of the Confederate fort.
Hours and Location
Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday, and most major holidays
8884 St. Philip's Rd. SE
Winnabow, NC 28479
Admission
Admission is free
Donations are appreciated
Guided Tours
Walk-in Guided Tour Schedule:
Wednesday- 11:00 AM & 2:00 PM
Friday- 11:00 AM & 2:00 PM
Saturday- 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM
Pricing:
Adult: $4 plus tax
Youth (3-17): $1 plus tax
Seniors (65+): $3 plus tax
Reservations can be made for group guided tours of ten or more people; otherwise self-guided tour maps are available for visitors.
Facilities
Historic Structures
The walls of St. Philips Church (1768) and the foundation of Russelborough (ca. 1760), the home of royal governors Arthur Dobbs and William Tryon, are the featured archaeological remains. Numerous other residential foundations of the colonial period are also displayed.
The earthen walls of Confederate Ft. Anderson are also visible.
Visitor Center
The visitor center features an audiovisual program that tells the story of Brunswick Town and Ft. Anderson. New exhibits are currently being planned for this recently renovated facility.
Trails, Monuments, Outdoor Exhibits
Trails through the site are enhanced with outdoor exhibits that tell the history of the colonial town, the exposed foundations, and Fort Anderson. New nature trails have been established as of Spring '25.
Handicapped Accessibility
The visitor center, rest rooms, and trails are fully accessible for people with disabilities.
Picnic Facilities
Tables are available on the grounds.
Gift Shop
A gift shop, located in the visitor center, has numerous items related to the colonial and Civil War eras.
Programs, Group Activities
Special events are conducted throughout the year. These programs focus on eighteenth-century colonial life and the nineteenth-century Civil War soldier's life at Ft. Anderson. Check out the special events page for more information on upcoming events.
Field Trips
K-12 Groups: Guided tours are FREE for public, private or registered homeschools.
Reservations are required
Activity Fee: $2 plus tax per student per activity
Please contact the site for more details.