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Point Peter: Discover Georgia’s Forgotten Battlefield of the War of 1812

Step back in time to a pivotal moment in American history—one that unfolded not in Washington or New Orleans, but right here in Coastal Georgia. Tucked away in the quiet marshlands near Kingsland lies Point Peter, the site of one of the final military engagements of the War of 1812. It’s a story of resilience, local defense, and national legacy—one that still echoes through our historic sites and museum exhibits today.

A Battlefield Along the St. Marys River

On a cool winter morning, January 13, 1815, British forces sailed up the St. Marys River and launched a surprise attack on the small but strategic American outpost at Point Peter. Though the Treaty of Ghent had been signed weeks earlier, ending the War of 1812, word had not yet reached the coast. What followed was one of the final engagements on U.S. soil, a short but intense battle that saw the fort overrun and the nearby town of St. Marys temporarily occupied.

The battle at Point Peter, while small in scale, represents a powerful moment in American resilience. Defenders stood their ground in a young and vulnerable republic, unaware that peace had already been negotiated. It’s a poignant reminder of the challenges early Americans faced in defending their homes and waterways—especially here along Georgia’s southern frontier.

Today, Point Peter remains a quiet, reflective place—tucked between the marshes and the river, just minutes from downtown St. Marys. While the fort no longer stands, its location is marked by interpretive signs and historic context that bring the events of 1815 to life. For visitors with a love of history, it’s a meaningful stop—one where you can truly walk in the footsteps of those who helped shape the nation’s early defense.

Explore the Story Further

The brief overview provided above doesn’t tell the entire story of our rich history. To deepen your understanding of the War of 1812’s Southern chapter, stop by the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum in St. Marys. The museum features an exhibit dedicated to Point Peter’s wartime role, along with engaging displays about the region’s colonial roots, maritime culture, and the storied history of Cumberland Island itself.

This indoor, air-conditioned museum is a fantastic stop for families looking to blend fun with education. Kids can explore historic maps, see real artifacts, and imagine what life was like along Georgia’s coast during the early 1800s. This is a great place to start or finish your historical adventure.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re a history buff tracing forgotten battlefields or a family looking to blend learning with your travels, Kingsland offers a meaningful and memorable way to connect with the past. Point Peter and the nearby Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum provide just a glimpse into the rich historical fabric of Camden County.

To enhance your journey, we invite you to tune in to our War of 1812 podcast, where local voices and expert insights bring the story of Point Peter to life. It’s a great listen whether you’re on the road or preparing for your visit.

Want to take your exploration even further? Hit the road with our Camden County History Marker Road Trip—a self-guided tour of historic sites throughout the region, including Point Peter, colonial landmarks, and other hidden gems that paint the full picture of our area’s fascinating past.