How Deep Is Mobile Bay?

Introduction

Mobile Bay is an inlet in the state of Alabama. Coming in from the Gulf of Mexico, the bay is bordered by Dauphin Island and the Fort Morgan Peninsula. The inland side of the bay is fed by the Mobile and Tensaw Rivers, as well as several smaller rivers. Because of all of the rivers and oceans surrounding the bay, the amount of water is immense! It is estimated that Mobile Bay discharges 62,000 cubic feet of water each second, making it the fourth largest of its kind in the entire United States. The area is home to many different forms of aquatic life, making it a popular spot for commercial and leisure fishing. However, it was also the site of an important event in the country’s history. Keep reading to learn all about Mobile Bay, including how deep it is.

Dimensions of Mobile Bay

Mobile Bay measures 31 miles (50 kilometers) in length and 24 miles (39 kilometers) from side to side at its widest. The narrowest section of the bay stretches for eight miles (13 kilometers). Although the bay does not form a perfect rectangle, the estimated total area of the bay is 413 square miles (1,070 square kilometers). At its deepest, Mobile Bay extends 75 feet (23 meters) below the surface. While this is the maximum depth, the bay has an average depth of around 10 feet (three meters).

History of Mobile Bay

In addition to being one of the largest estuaries in the country, Mobile Bay also hosted a key battle during the American Civil War. Before the war, Mobile Bay was protected by three forts, including Fort Morgan. The bay had two channels that ships could travel in and out of, allowing trade, immigration, and transportation. As the Confederacy seceded from the Union and began fighting against the United States, Mobile Bay remained one of its main ports.

As the war drew to a close, the bay remained one of the last standing Confederate ports. The bay was defended with torpedoes, guns, and gunboats, making it extremely hard to enter. David Farragut was tasked with closing the port and overtaking the bay in August 1864. 5,500 Union soldiers fought against 1,500 Confederates for almost two days during the battle. The Union army finally prevailed, and federal ships were able to enter the port. Days after, on August 23rd, Fort Morgan surrendered, officially signaling the Union’s victory. During the battle, the Union army suffered over 300 casualties, while the Confederates suffered less than 50. However, after all the forts were seized, 1,500 more Confederates were captured.

Eight months after the battle in the bay, the city of Mobile, Alabama fell to the Union army. These Union victories in war greatly helped the war against slavery. By winning in key areas such as Mobile Bay, the Union army ensured that Abraham Lincoln could be reelected and continue to fight for equality and freedom.

Mobile, Alabama

Outside of the bay, the town of Mobile still stands. While it was once under Confederate rule, it now offers a rich culture and history to visitors and residents. The historical town still has most of its original architecture, making you feel like you have been transported 200 years into the past. In addition to its unique architecture, Mobile offers some amazing food. Its location on the coast mixed with southern culture creates a delicious cuisine that is to die for. The downtown area is filled with tons of incredibly unique restaurants that will leave you wanting more. Many people may not know that Mobile was the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the southern United States. To learn more about this fascinating tradition, guests can visit the Carnival Museum located in downtown Mobile.

Where is Mobile Bay Located on a Map?

Mobile Bay comes from the Gulf of Mexico into the state of Alabama and is bordered by the cities of Mobile to the north, Daphne and Fairhope to the east, and Dauphin Island and Gulf Shores to the south. The Mobile and Tensaw Rivers feed the bay in the city of Mobile at its northern end. The Gulf Shores peninsula faces Mobile Bay on its northern side and the Gulf of Mexico on its southern beaches.

Conclusion

Although Mobile Bay may not be incredibly well known, the history and culture that surround it are captivating. What is just a bay today hosted a key battle that forever changed the United States for the better. In addition to being historically significant, Mobile Bay is an impressive geological feature. Its sheer size and power make it an amazing place to study and visit.