CASEMATE MUSEUM 757-788-3391
Fax: 757-788-3886
http://www.fmauthority.com/visit/casemate-museum/
20 Bernard Road, Fort Monroe, VA 23651
I-64, Exit 268, left then right onto Mellen, to main gate, follow Ingalls, left at St. Marys thru Sally Port and right.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Completed in 1834 and named in honor of President James Monroe, Fort Monroe is recognized as the largest stone fort ever built in the United States. Within the fort is the Casemate Museum, which chronicles the military history of Fort Monroe from the construction of Fort Algernourne, the first defensive fortification at the site in 1609, through the last major command to be headquartered at Fort Monroe
Nicknamed "Freedom's Fortress," this Union-held fortification provided a safe haven for hundreds of runaway slaves during the Civil War. General Benjamin Butler refusing to return runaway slaves, kept them as "Contrabands" of war, assuring their freedom. It was also the site where the Army of the Potomac landed before beginning the march toward Richmond during the Peninsula Campaign. Confederate President Jefferson Davis' prison cell is located in the museum.
PARKING: 1 wheelchair accessible parking space.
TYPES OF PATHS: Sidewalks which do have steep grades requiring assistance for persons in wheelchairs. Paths are 50 yards long.
ENTRANCE: Located far right when facing Museum. Entry doors, 41 in. wide, easily open out with knob handle located 34 in. above floor.
PUBLIC REST ROOMS: In first and last quarter of museum. Doors 36 in. wide, open in. Turns to enter. Accessible stalls have 31 in. wide doors opening out, and handrails. 19 in. toilet seat height, and 17 in. between commode and wall. Sink height is 27 in. Accessible stall checked regularly for obstructions.
SPECIAL SERVICES:
For guests with visual disabilities, the director can escort them into the roped off area to let them touch the large cannon and other exhibits. Signs are in large print, with contrasting colors, on non-glossy surface.
GIFT SHOP: Aisles are open. Counters 38 in. high. Clerks assist customers with special needs. Aisles clear of temporary displays.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Accepted credit cards MC and V in gift shop. Free admission.
No longer an active military base, Fort Monroe is open to the public and admission to the Casemate Museum is free for self guided tours.
Guided tours are available by reservation for groups of 10 or more and the cost is $3 per person. Please book guided tours at least 2 weeks in advance to ensure availability. Groups of 10 or more may elect to do a self guided tour at no charge. All groups are encouraged to call at least 2 weeks in advance to ensure availability of space and/or guides. For reservations, please call 757 788-3391 or email CasemateTours@fmauthority.com.
Open Monday-Sunday 10:30am – 4:30pm Memorial Day to Labor Day
Tuesday-Sunday for the remainder of the year.
Museum is closed Easter, Thanksgiving Day, December 24, December 25, December 31, and January 1.
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