Fort Livingston
Sinking Into the Gulf
State: Louisiana
County: Jefferson Parish
Founded: 1834
Abandoned: 1890s
Peak Population: 300
Fort Livingston was built to defend approaches to New Orleans after the War of 1812. It never saw combat and was abandoned after the Civil War. The brick fort is now partially submerged and accessible only by boat.
Pirate History
Fort Livingston was built near where pirate Jean Lafitte operated from Barataria Bay. His smuggling base was nearby.
Subsidence
Sea level rise and subsidence are slowly claiming the fort. Much of it is now underwater or buried in sand.
Timeline
- 1834 - Built Construction began
- 1861 - Civil War Occupied by Confederates
- 1890s - Abandoned Military use ended
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Spring or fall
Difficulty: Difficult - boat access only
Time Needed: Half day
Quick Facts
- Near Jean Lafitte's pirate base
- Partially underwater today
- Boat access only
Location
Address: Grand Terre Island, Louisiana
Coordinates: 29.2725, -89.9511