Fort McAllister was a small earthen citadel in Georgia that defended the Great Ogeechee River south of Savannah. It was expanded over time with more guns, shelters, and mines added to strengthen its river defenses. In 1862, a blockade runner called the Nashville was trapped near the fort. The Union navy ordered a reconnaissance of the fort and to destroy it if possible. The fort's garrison was commanded by Colonel Charles Anderson at this time.