Battery Payne at Fort Pickens, Gulf Islands National Seashore

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See the Military Forts and Batteries web page for an interactive location map.

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Battery Payne is located within the Fort Pickens unit of Gulf Islands National Seashore opposite from Battery Trueman, its identical twin. As with Trueman, you cannot see it from the road because it is covered with soil and vegetation to conceal it from enemy ships. Be on the lookout for two sets of stairs leading up a hill. The battery has its own parking area.

Battery Payne at Fort Pickens, Gulf Islands National Seashore

Battery Payne is named after Army 1st Lieutenant Matthew Payne, who fought in both the War of 1812 and the Mexican American War (1846-47). It was built in 1904, a year before Trueman. It housed two, 3-inch rapid fire guns used to defend against torpedo boats and minesweepers. Like all batteries in the area, it never saw action, but it has the distinction of being the only battery at Fort Pickens where a man died. In 1922 while practice firing the weapons, one of the guns broke off its mount upon recoil and hit Private Hugo Papp, killing him instantly.

The battery is still in excellent condition. Doors are open to lower level rooms so visitors can see inside, but all you will find is empty space and graffitied walls. You can also walk up to the gun pits on the top level. All areas are open to the public. Allow ten minutes for a visit to Battery Payne.

One of Battery Payne’s two gun pits that held a 3-inch rapid fire gun, Gulf Islands National Seashore

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