Dauphin Island - For the Birds!

Where can you find an unspoiled island with easy access, sparkling white beaches, and a 160 acre bird sanctuary? Throw in a pre-Civil War fort, Indian Mounds, and an educational facility dedicated to marine life, and you're describing Dauphin Island, Alabama!

If you're planning a trip to Alabama's beautiful Gulf Coast, don't fail to include Dauphin Island in your itinerary. The island, which is celebrating its tricentennial this year, may be accessed from Mobile across the state's longest bridge, or from Fort Morgan on the east via the Dauphin Island Ferry. To drive down from Mobile, take exit 17-A off I-10, and follow Highway 193 to the island. To ride the ferry, drive or walk aboard at Fort Morgan and cruise across Mobile Bay. It's a beautiful trip either way.

Although there is clear evidence - a fascinating group of Indian Mounds - that Native Americans inhabited the island many years ago, the modern history of the island dates back to 1699, when French explorer d'Iberville established the first permanent settlement. The island was first known as "Massacre Island" for the pile of human remains discovered there, but was later renamed for the heir to the French throne. Since that time, the island has been occupied by the British, the Spanish, the United States, the Republic of Alabama, and the Confederacy - six flags in all have flown over the tiny island.

Fort Gaines, twin of Fort Morgan featured in Part 1 of this series, was completed in 1848 and played a fairly significant role in the Civil War. It is well-preserved today, with several annual events, such as the 13th annual "Thunder on the Bay," a reenactment of the Civil War battle for Fort Gaines, held this year on May 15-16. The Women's Encampment, held the first full weekend in November, features women going about the daily tasks of life in the Civil War period. Fort Gaines has a full service campground, a fishing pier, and a boat launch. There is a small admission charge to tour the fort. For more information, call (334) 861-5524, or e-mail fortgaines@hotmail.com.

Sealab is an educational facility in partnership with public schools and universities in the state to teach students and teachers about marine life. Although most events are not open to the public, the Estuarium is. Open 7 days a week in 1999, the Estuarium has displays and interactive exhibits focusing on the four main ecosystems of the Mobile estuary system: the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, Mobile Bay, the Barrier Islands, and the Gulf of Mexico. Want to see fish that walk and horses that swim? Like to touch and ask questions? This is your place! Admission is $6.00 for adults and $3.00 for children 5-18. For more information, call (334) 861-7500, or visit Sealab's website at http://www.disl.org.

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