Restoration of Fort Foster

Fort Foster Historic Site is part of the Hillsborough River State Park (HRSP), located 9 miles south of Zephyrhills, Florida, on U.S. 301 across from the park. The fort is a reproduction of a fort originally built on the same grounds in 1836 by Col. William S. Foster and his 430 men. It is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Fort Foster was utilized during the Second Seminole War to defend the bridge crossing at the Hillsborough River and served as a resupply point for the soldiers in the field. The fort was garrisoned on and off from December 1836 through April 1838

In recent years, park staff and re-enactors provided living history demonstrations of life at Fort Foster. Each year the site has presented living history events: Fort Foster Rendezvous in January and the Candlelight Dinner experience at Fort Foster during the winter months. The park staff has also conducted weekly tours of the park, allowing visitors the opportunity of touring the fort and grounds.

However, due to the current condition of Fort Foster, it is unsafe to host any events and tours until a major restoration project can be completed.

The wooden structures over the years have deteriorated and while there have been some repairs, now the support structures and ramparts (boardwalks) need to be replaced. Volunteers have completed a preliminary assessment of the repairs needed to make Fort Foster safe for the public to enjoy. The estimated cost of the materials and hardware has exceeded $75,000 which is beyond the capabilities of the HRSP.

Collection boxes are located within HRSP, and a go-fund-me has been set up. We are now accepting donations at the HRSP Preservation Society. This is where you can help us save this important historical landmark and re-open it to the public once more.

Hillsborough River State Park Society

15402 US 301 N

Thonotosassa, FL 33592