When gunfire rang out in 1861 after the Confederate Army attacked the Federal fort, the fort was surrendered after 34 hours and the American Civil War began. Rangers share the fort’s history during guided tours, and a museum exhibit illustrates the fort’s construction and battles. The fort is accessed by ferry departing from Concord Street or from Mt. Pleasant (40 Patriots Point Road), and is open year-round except for New Years, Thanksgiving and Christmas.