Fort Delaware
Andersonville of the North
State: Delaware
County: New Castle County
Founded: 1859
Abandoned: 1944
Peak Population: 12,500 prisoners
Fort Delaware was a Union prisoner-of-war camp during the Civil War. At peak, it held 12,500 Confederate prisoners. About 2,400 died from disease. Today, costumed interpreters recreate Civil War life. Access is by ferry from Delaware City.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 3-4 hours
Quick Facts
- 12,500 prisoners at peak
- 2,400 died
- Ferry access only
Location
Address: Fort Delaware State Park, Pea Patch Island
Coordinates: 39.5833, -75.5667