The island became part of the Alabama Territory in March 1817 . In 1821, the U.S. government began construction of Fort Gaines on the island’s easternmost point to protect Mobile Bay, but efforts languished when funding ran short.
What is the history of Dauphin Island Alabama?
The French named the island “Massacre Island” and established a settlement on the island. The colony was raided by pirates in 1711, but the settlement survived. By 1717, Dauphin Island was the home of the French Governor General of Louisiana, who lived in a home at today’s Cadillac Square.
Who founded Dauphin Island Alabama?
In 1699, French explorers Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville and his younger brother, Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville , named it Île du Massacre (Massacre Island) after finding some 60 human skeletons gathered in mounds and believing it to be the site of a massacre.
Why is Dauphin Island named Dauphin Island?
The town is included in the Mobile metropolitan area. The island (originally named Massacre Island) was renamed for Louis XIV of France’s great-grandson and heir, the dauphin, the future Louis XV of France .
How old is Dauphin Island Alabama?
Dauphin Island is located in the Gulf Coast in Mobile County. This barrier island is fourteen miles long and less than two miles wide. It was first explored by the Spanish in 1599 , but no real settlement came to the area until the French nearly 100 years later.
Is Dauphin Island worth visiting?
Dauphin Island is a top family destination. You can see some dazzling historic attractions, such as Fort Gaines or the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, one of the largest of its kind on the east coast. There are numerous fishing charters for families, giving you accessible trips in and around the Gulf and Mobile Bay.
How deep is the water at Dauphin Island?
The deepest point is in the Mexico Basin (Sigsbee Deep), which is 17,070 feet (5,203 metres) below sea level .
Does Dauphin Island have white sand?
Dauphin Island is located three miles south of Mobile Bay, with clear blue water and powdery white sand galore .
How safe is Dauphin Island?
Is Dauphin Island, AL Safe? The D- grade means the rate of crime is much higher than the average US city. Dauphin Island is in the 12th percentile for safety, meaning 88% of cities are safer and 12% of cities are more dangerous.
Can you fly to Dauphin Island Alabama?
You cannot fly directly to Dauphin Island . KAYAK recommends you fly to Mobile (MOB) (30.93 mi from Dauphin Island). From there you can rent a car or get a taxi.
Is it safe to swim at Dauphin Island?
Swimming & Water Safety
Generally, the ocean around Dauphin Island is quite safe : the waters are calm and the beach tapers off slowly, so swimming in the shallows is a great activity for the kids. ... The sand is clean and powdery, and the water warm and calm.
How much does it cost to go to Dauphin Island?
How Much Does It Cost? *Bicycles are no extra charge. $140.00 (10 rides for one vehicle – under 21 feet and driver.
Does Dauphin Island get hit by hurricanes?
“Dauphin Island is probably the most resilient island or place on earth when it comes to hurricanes. We get hit by so many and they can get this place cleaned up and looking perfect so fast it is ridiculous,” said Pearson.
Does Dauphin Island have a high school?
High School (9-12) | Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Ben Titus, Ph. D.
How much does it cost to get into Fort Gaines?
Location and Hours. Fort Gaines is located at 51 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, Alabama; and it is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM year-round. Admission rates are $6 for adults over 13 years old , $4 for children between 5 and 12 years old, and free for children under 5.
Do you have to take a ferry to Dauphin Island?
How to get to Dauphin Island? Getting to Dauphin Island can be done by using the bridge or the ferry wherever you’re coming from . Most people will use the bridge because it’s easy and is the fastest route from everywhere you may be coming from.
