Overview
 Not only is this Civil War citadel a part of Key West’s history itself, but it has also come to be the depository for a lot of the region’s historical artifacts. Originally built to help defend Fort Zachary Taylor in 1862, the fort is registered as a National Historic site.
The Fort is a treat with those interested in the Civil War and construction methods from that time. The seaward side of East Martello has walls over 8 feet thick and is considered one of the best-preserved Civil War fortifications in the country.
The heart of the site is the East Martello Museum and Art Gallery housed inside the fort. It has
artifacts and that convey the history of Key West through today with exhibits ranging from treasure chests to the relics of a Cuban refugee raft. The second floor galleries contain work from local artists and other temporary exhibits.
The artwork of Mario Sanchez is highlighted in the gallery. Born in Key West in 1908, his paintings and carvings capture the history and spirit of the area.
The Key West Art and Historical Society now operates the Martello tower. |
