Fort Stewart, GA

County: Liberty

History

Fort Stewart, Georgia

Fort Stewart, located in southeastern Georgia, has a rich and storied history dating back several centuries. Originally, the area was populated by Native American tribes, primarily the Creek Indians. It was a significant region for agriculture and trade, and the tribes inhabited the region until the early 19th century.

In the early 1800s, Georgia was part of the newly formed United States, and the region became an important center for military operations. During the War of 1812, the U.S. Army established several forts in the area to defend against potential British attacks. One such fort was Fort Stewart, named after General Daniel Stewart, a local military leader from the Revolutionary War.

After the war, the relevance of Fort Stewart diminished, and it was largely abandoned. However, during World War II, the United States saw the need to establish training grounds for soldiers, and the area around Fort Stewart was chosen due to its strategic location and available land. In 1940, the U.S. Army took over the site and began constructing barracks and training facilities.

Throughout World War II, Fort Stewart served as an important training base, particularly for armored units. Soldiers were trained in tank warfare and other military tactics. The fort also played a significant role in the development of the 3rd Infantry Division, which fought in numerous battles in Europe.

In the following decades, Fort Stewart continued to grow and expand, becoming an essential hub for Army operations. During the Cold War, it served as a training ground for soldiers preparing for potential conflicts with the Soviet Union. The fort also played a role in supporting various military operations around the world, including the Gulf War and the Iraq War.

Today, Fort Stewart covers over 280,000 acres and is one of the largest military installations in the eastern United States. It is primarily a training center for armored and infantry units, and it also houses the 3rd Infantry Division. The installation has played a vital role in training and preparing soldiers for combat, and it continues to be a critical asset to the U.S. Army.

Attractions

Fort Stewart Museum

Fort Stewart Museum

This museum showcases the history and heritage of Fort Stewart and the surrounding area. It includes exhibits on military equipment, artifacts, and photographs.

Warriors Walk Memorial

This memorial honors the soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Division who have lost their lives while serving our country. Each soldier is commemorated with a tree and a plaque with their name and photo.

Fort Stewart Wildlife Management Area

This expansive outdoor area offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife and habitats.

Holbrook Pond Recreation Area

This recreation area features a beautiful lake where visitors can fish, kayak, and paddleboard. There are also picnic areas, trails, and campsites for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cypress Sam's Family Fun Park

Located just outside Fort Stewart, this family-friendly amusement park offers go-karts, mini-golf, batting cages, bumper boats, and an arcade.

Fort Stewart PX Mini Mall

This shopping center provides a range of retail outlets, including clothing stores, beauty salons, dining options, and a movie theater.

Liberty County-McIntosh County Museum

Located nearby in Hinesville, this museum showcases the history and culture of Liberty County and McIntosh County. It includes exhibits on local industries, military history, and community heritage.

Historic Savannah

While not located directly in Fort Stewart, the nearby city of Savannah is a major attraction in the area. With its charming historic district, beautiful architecture, and vibrant arts and dining scene, Savannah offers a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors.

Fort Morris Historic Site

Situated on the banks of the Medway River, this site features the ruins of a 19th-century earthen fort, which played a crucial role in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Visitors can explore the fort's grounds, exhibits, and hiking trails.

Midway Museum

Located in Midway, Georgia, this museum focuses on the historic coastal town's role in the American Revolutionary War. It offers exhibits, artifacts, and guided tours showcasing the town's colonial history and military significance.

Climate

The climate of Fort Stewart, Georgia can be classified as humid subtropical. It experiences hot and humid summers, mild winters, and has a fairly moderate climate overall. Here are some key characteristics of the climate in Fort Stewart:

Summers

The summer season in Fort Stewart is hot and humid, with temperatures averaging in the mid to high 90s Fahrenheit (32-37 degrees Celsius). The humidity levels can make it feel even hotter, with occasional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. It is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during this time.

Winters

Winters in Fort Stewart are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the low 60s Fahrenheit (1-16 degrees Celsius). However, occasional cold spells can bring temperatures below freezing, accompanied by some frost and even light snowfall. Snowfall is relatively rare, but it can occur.

Spring and Fall

The spring and fall seasons in Fort Stewart are pleasant, with temperatures increasing or decreasing gradually. Spring brings mild temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 80s Fahrenheit (10-27 degrees Celsius), while fall sees temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit (10-25 degrees Celsius). These seasons offer mild weather conditions, but there can be occasional showers and thunderstorms.

Rainfall

Fort Stewart receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. The wettest months are typically July and August, while the driest months are October and November. On average, Fort Stewart receives around 50 inches (127 centimeters) of rainfall annually.

It is important to note that weather patterns can be unpredictable, and extreme weather events such as hurricanes or tropical storms can occur in the region. It is advisable to stay updated with local weather forecasts and take necessary precautions during severe weather conditions.

Neighborhoods

Fort Stewart is a military installation located in eastern Georgia, roughly 40 miles southwest of Savannah. As a military base, the surrounding areas are primarily geared towards providing housing and amenities for military personnel and their families. Here are some of the neighborhoods and communities in the vicinity of Fort Stewart:

Hinesville

Hinesville is the closest city to Fort Stewart and is often considered the main hub for military families. It offers a range of housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. Hinesville provides various amenities, including restaurants, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. It also has several schools, both public and private, to cater to the needs of military families.

Allenhurst

Located just north of Fort Stewart, Allenhurst is a small town known for its quiet and friendly atmosphere. It offers affordable housing options for military families and has several parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.

Walthourville

Situated to the east of Fort Stewart, Walthourville is a predominantly residential community with a mix of military families and civilian residents. It provides a peaceful suburban environment with housing options such as single-family homes and apartments.

Flemington

Flemington is a neighborhood located to the northeast of Fort Stewart. It offers a mix of affordable housing options, including townhomes and single-family homes. The community is relatively quiet and maintains a suburban vibe.

Midway

Midway is a small town located southeast of Fort Stewart. It offers a range of housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. With its proximity to the coast, Midway provides easy access to recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

Ludowici

Ludowici is a town located west of Fort Stewart. It offers a mix of housing options, including some rural properties. The town has a strong sense of community and hosts various events throughout the year, such as festivals and parades.

Richmond Hill

While not directly adjacent to Fort Stewart, Richmond Hill is a popular place for military personnel to live due to its proximity to the base and its well-regarded school system. Located southeast of Fort Stewart, Richmond Hill offers a range of housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. It is a suburban community with amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and parks.

These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods surrounding Fort Stewart. Military families stationed at the base have options for housing and amenities tailored to their needs in these and other nearby communities.

Nearby Cities