If you're traveling along the Mississippi Gulf Coast there is a offshore island that you might want to visit it is rich in cultural and heritage. I am talking about Ship Island located approximately 12 miles off the coast of Gulfport,Mississippi. Unless you have your own boat the only way to reach the island is to take a ferry from a company called Ship Island Excursions they are an official Park service concession.
Five flags have flown over Ship Island the French, British, Spanish, Confederate and Union. Fort Massachusetts is also on ship Island it was built by the federal government but was later burned down by the Confederate Army who later rebuilt it but soon abandoned it.
The fort itself received very little damage from Hurricane Katrina but the restored lighthouse was completely destroyed along with the island's Pier and boardwalk most of the concession and sleeping quarters for the park rangers were also destroyed during the storm but have all been rebuilt back now. There are many interesting things to see as you wander around the island it is a great detour off the beaten path and a unique experience I'm sure you will enjoy.
