Arsenal Park is a historic site in Fayetteville, North Carolina, within the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex. You can see archaeological remains, interpretive signage and markers that connect the site to the city’s role in the Civil War.
- Location: 801 Arsenal Ave., Fayetteville, NC 28305
- Park size: 6 acres
- What to see: Arsenal ruins, a steel “ghost” tower and two Civil War Trail markers
Finding Arsenal Park
Arsenal Park sits at Arsenal Avenue and Myrover Street in Fayetteville and forms part of the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex. The complex’s address is 801 Arsenal Ave., Fayetteville, NC 28305, so use that address when planning your visit.
The six-acre park is a compact stop to add to a downtown outing.
The park’s place in Fayetteville history
Arsenal Park preserves the remains of two arsenals that served different purposes before and during the Civil War. After the War of 1812, the United States commissioned five arsenals to expand its defenses, and Fayetteville was selected as a site for one.
The North Carolina Arsenal was constructed from 1838 to 1856 as part of the federal government’s Atlantic Coast defensive system. After it was completed, it primarily stored arms.
In April 1861, following North Carolina’s secession from the Union, local militia seized the Arsenal and turned it over to the state, which then transferred it to the Confederate States of America.
The Confederacy used the facility to produce rifles, ammunition and gun carriages. Union troops commanded by Gen. William T. Sherman destroyed it in 1865. The park’s archaeological remains also represent the Fayetteville Arsenal, which operated from 1861 to 1865.
What to look for during a visit
The park’s visible features help you connect the surviving site to its history. Interpretive signage explains the ruins, while a steel structure represents the Arsenal’s Northwest tower, known as the “ghost” tower. Two Civil War Trail markers add context to the grounds.
Arsenal Park is also home to VanStory History Village, which the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex describes as three restored 19th-century homes. The wider complex includes the museum building and the 1897 Poe House, as well as the park.
Combining the park with downtown sights
You can pair a visit to Arsenal Park with a downtown sightseeing walk. The Market House in Fayetteville is one downtown landmark to include in your plans.
For a broader day around the city, a downtown itinerary can help you arrange your route.
A one-day route through downtown Fayetteville can help you arrange a broader day around the city.
For a compact visit, start with the ruins and interpretive signs, then look for the ghost tower and Civil War Trail markers. Add VanStory History Village or the other parts of the historical complex if you want to spend more time with Fayetteville’s history. Arsenal Park is about a 4-minute drive from American Eagle Inn Fayetteville.
Before you go
Opening hours and visitor arrangements can change. Check the official site of the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex before you go.
FAQs
Is Arsenal Park part of a museum complex?
Yes. It is part of the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex, which also includes a museum building and the 1897 Poe House.
What is the ghost tower?
It is a steel structure representing the Northwest tower of the Arsenal.
What is VanStory History Village?
It is a group of three restored 19th-century homes located in Arsenal Park.
How large is Arsenal Park?
The Fayetteville parks and recreation master plan lists the park at 6 acres.