The Dry Tortugas is the home of historical Fort Jefferson, an outstanding example of 19th century masonry fortification. This six-sided icon has resided on the Dry Tortugas for over a century and is one of Key West’s most visited historical sites. After the War of 1812, Fort Jefferson was built to protect the southern coast of the United States. Surrounded by the dangerous coral reefs of the Dry Tortugas, Fort Jefferson received a lighthouse on Garden Key in 1825 in order to warn sailors. The fort was officially named Fort Jefferson in 1850 after the final completion of the officer’s quarters, and was named after the 3rd president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson. Although the fort was never really finished, its construction lasted for over 30 years, and included a moat which was never completed due to engineering problems. The end result was a six-sided, 45 foot tall, masonry structure made of 16 million hand placed bricks which would forever be a symbol of the Dry Tortugas.

Fort Jefferson was also used as a prison for criminals and deserters during and after the Civil War. The most famous of these prisoners was Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was imprisoned for his involvement in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.

During its time, Fort Jefferson held over 2,500 prisoners. After its use as a prison, Fort Jefferson became a quarantine station for the Marine-Hospital Service from 1888-1900, during which the location was also used in the Spanish-American War*.

With its rich historical background, Fort Jefferson finally received its designation as a National Monument in 1935, and then upgraded to National Park status by President George Bush in 1992.