SUMTER, FORT

a fortification in Charleston Harbor, 3% miles from the city. It received its name from General Thomas Sumter. When South Carolina withdrew from the Union in 1860 the other defenses of the harbor of Charleston were abandoned by Major Anderson in command and Fort Sumter was occupied with a garrison of about 80men. Its armament comprised 62 guns. The fort was attacked on April 12, 1861 by General Beau regard’s forces. It surrendered on the 14th. This event marked the beginning of the Civil War. Following {ts surrender the fort was strengthened by the Confederates. It was partly destroyed by a fleet of monitors in April, 1863, but was not abandoned until Charleston was evacuated in 1865. Amer. general of War of Independence; thanked by Congre , 1781.