The “Trail of Florida’s Indian Heritage”
is an on-going educational project of its member sites. They have an interactive
web-map hosted by the Florida Public Archaeology Network. The main webpage is: http://www.trailoffloridasindianheritage.org/florida-indian-trail-map.html
Preservation
and protection of the Florida’s cultural sites is not only responsible
stewardship, it is the law.
Florida has a rich and multi-dimensional past. Prior to the
arrival of Europeans on its shores, it was home to a diverse array of Native
American cultures. Many were fisher folk, living close to estuaries and bays
that teamed with fish, shellfish, and marine mammals. Others were agricultural
societies in which individuals labored in fields controlled by a powerful
regional chief. Archaeology has revealed evidence of temples and ball courts;
complex burial rites and simple family hearths; intricate copper breastplates and
beads made of local shell; sacred landscapes and seasonal hunting camps;
pottery and tools, weapons and weaving.
The evidence of these cultures stretches back 12,000 years.
This is our state’s cultural heritage. The artifacts, archaeological and historical
sites, traditions of today’s native peoples, documents and historic records are
all cultural resources; through these resources we learn about the past.
The Trail of Florida’s Indian Heritage is committed to
promoting responsible stewardship of Florida’s historical and archaeological
resources. Preserving these resources enhances our quality of life, promotes a
sense of place that strengthens our communities, provides tangible connections
to our history, and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to our state
annually. Many of these sites have boardwalks, museums, nature trails, accurately
re-created villages and Forts, and living history presentations. Many charge an
admission fee, and have limited or seasonal hours.
The Trail of Florida’s Indian Heritage members abide by the
Society for American Archaeology Principles
of Archaeological Ethics including:
-The archaeological
record, that is, in situ archaeological material and sites, archaeological
collections, records and reports, is irreplaceable. It is the responsibility of
all archaeologists to work for the long-term conservation and protection of the
archaeological record by practicing and promoting stewardship of the
archaeological record.
-Responsible
archaeological research, including all levels of professional activity,
requires an acknowledgment of public accountability and a commitment to make
every reasonable effort, in good faith, to consult actively with affected
group(s).
-The Society
for American Archaeology has long recognized that the buying and selling of
objects out of archaeological context is contributing to the destruction of the
archaeological record on the American continents and around the world. The
commercialization of archaeological objects - their use as commodities to be
exploited for personal enjoyment or profit - results in the destruction of
archaeological sites and of contextual information that is essential to
understanding the archaeological record.
Archaeology Principles of Archaeological Ethics http://www.saa.org/AbouttheSociety/PrinciplesofArchaeologicalEthics/tabid/203/Default.aspx
Important things for you to know regarding finding
artifacts on public land or waterways:
http://www.flheritage.com/archaeology/underwater/finds/
http://www.flheritage.com/archaeology/underwater/finds/
Laws about Historic and Abandoned Cemeteries and Unmarked
human burials: http://www.flheritage.com/archaeology/cemeteries/index.cfm?page=Laws
Florida Public
Archaeology Network (FPAN) Coordinating Center. The Florida Public Archaeology
Network's mission is to promote and facilitate the conservation, study and
public understanding of Florida's archaeological heritage through regional
centers, each of which has its own website. http://www.flpublicarchaeology.org/
Florida's Natural Habitats -Indian Shell Mounds are their own Habitat Type.
There is one transitional type of habitat that needs to be considered due to its historical context and wide distribution in Florida. The Shell Mound Habitat is a transition habitat unique to native American midden mounds.
Click here to read....Indian Mounds are their own Habitat...
MEMBER SITES AND FEATURED LOCATIONS of the
”
Trail of Florida’s Indian Heritage”
University of West
Florida Archaeological Institute
Bldg. 89, 11000 University Pkwy., Pensacola
Bldg. 89, 11000 University Pkwy., Pensacola
(850) 474-3015
The Archaeology Institute at the University of West Florida
is an educational, research and service facility concerned with the prehistoric
and historic archaeological resources of the northwest Florida region.
Archaeological investigations are conducted in both terrestrial and underwater
settings. An exhibit hall open to the public is located in the Archaeology
Institute Building (89).
http://uwf.edu/archaeology/about/
Oak Tree Nature Park & Archaeological Preserve
210 W. Hollywood Boulevard, Mary Esther 32569
Okaloosa County (850) 243-3566
210 W. Hollywood Boulevard, Mary Esther 32569
Okaloosa County (850) 243-3566
This beautiful pristine 25-acre park contains a rich Weeden
Island archaeological site. The site was first discovered and recorded by
William (Bill) Lazarus in 1965. The archaeological research conducted over the
years resulted in the City of Mary Esther acquiring this magnificent property
in 2001 through a grant from Florida Communities Trust. Come visit this
pre-historic and natural resource sanctuary and walk in the footsteps of the
ancient ones who lived and died here over 1000 years ago. Site includes a
boardwalk.
I NDIAN TEMPLE MOUND MUSEUM and FORT WALTON TEMPLE MOUND.
139 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.
The museum contains a wide range of artifacts that are
important to the history and culture of the area. A ceremonial and political
center by the Mound Builder Culture
between 800-1400AD, and a comprehensive
collection of artifacts in the adjacent museum. The mound is a hill of earth
created by the prehistoric people living in this area. The mound was probably
begun around AD 700 and completed sometime between AD1500 and AD1650: the late
Mississippian Time Period in the panhandle of Florida. The high point of its use
was around the late 1400's.
Museum of
Northwest Florida
115 Westview Avenue, Valparaiso 32580 Okaloosa County
115 Westview Avenue, Valparaiso 32580 Okaloosa County
(850)
678-2615
Since 1971
the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida has collected and preserved cultural
materials pertaining to local and regional history. Today the museum maintains
collections of artifacts, photographs, and manuscript materials and makes these
collections accessible through exhibitions, programs and its research library.
See artifacts made by Northwest Florida’s earliest Native American inhabitants.
Flint spear points, a black iron wash pot, crosscut saws, turpentine collection
cups, a porcelain pitcher, lumber mill tokens, and old school desks portray the
history of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. These artifacts, and hundreds more
spanning the years from 8,800 B.C. to the present, illustrate past ways of life
for you and your family to enjoy. Stone tools and weapons chipped by
Paleo-Archaic hunters (our first residents) are on display. Pottery shards from
the Woodland Period show you the ingenuity of pottery construction and
decoration. The museum and gift Shop are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am – 4 pm.
Admission: $2.
Florida Caverns
State Park
3345 Caverns Road Marianna, Florida 32446 Jackson County
3345 Caverns Road Marianna, Florida 32446 Jackson County
850.482.9598
The park
features cave tours of the dry (air-filled) caves, which are very rare in
Florida. Native Americans used the caverns for shelter for thousands of years.
Displays include a variety of exhibits on the cultural and natural history of
the park area, including pre-European periods. (Site # )
Lake Jackson
Mounds Archaeological State Park
3600 Indian
Mounds Road Tallahassee, Florida 32303
Leon County
850.922.6007
The Lake
Jackson Mounds Site encompasses six earthen temple mounds and one possible
burial mound. Artifacts recovered during excavations show that the site is part
of a larger southeastern culture known as the Southeastern Ceremonial Complex.
Visitors can picnic on an open grassy area near the largest mound or hike past
the remains of an 1800’s grist mill. Outdoor exhibits explain the history and
lifeways of the native people who lived here. (Site #
)
The Museum
of Florida History
500 South Bronough Street N, R. A. Gray Building, Tallahassee 32399 Leon County
500 South Bronough Street N, R. A. Gray Building, Tallahassee 32399 Leon County
(850) 245-6400
The Museum
of Florida History has the mission to discover, preserve and exhibit the
artifactual culture of Florida’s Indian and historic heritage. The museum
presents permanent exhibits depicting Florida’s illustrious history from the
prehistoric period through the 20th century. The museum collections include
19th century lithographic prints of Native American leaders in Florida,
Seminole and Miccosukee patchwork clothing, traditional arts and crafts such as
dolls and wood carvings and 20th century ceremonial artifacts. The collection
also contains a number of 20th century postcards featuring Seminole and
Miccosukee people and utilitarian items such as sofkee spoons and palmetto
baskets.
Hernando
DeSoto Winter Encampment Site
1001 DeSoto Park Drive, Tallahassee 32301 Leon County
1001 DeSoto Park Drive, Tallahassee 32301 Leon County
(850)
245-6340
This 6-acre
archaeological site is located in Tallahassee a mile east of the state capitol.
It is the only place that the Spanish explorer, Hernando de Soto, is confirmed
to have visited during his 1539-1540 expedition of the Southeastern United
States. De Soto’s party camped during its first winter at this site, occupying
the large Apalache village of Anhaica. Artifacts from site excavations are
displayed inside the Martin House, which is located on the property. This
1930’s structure was built by Florida Governor John Martin and currently serves
as offices for the Florida Bureau of Archaeological Research. Buildings are
open 8am to 5pm Monday - Friday. The outside is always accessible; it is a
park-like setting with display panels.
Letchworth-Love
Mounds Archaeological State Park,
4500 Sunray
Road, South Tallahassee, Florida 32309
Jefferson County
850.922.6007
The
Letchworth Mounds site includes Florida’s tallest recorded Native American
ceremonial mound at 46 feet in height. The people who built the mound are
believed to have been members of the Weeden Island Culture, a group of Native
Americans who lived along the Gulf Coast between 1,200 and 1,800 years ago.
There is a self-guided interpretive trail, including a boardwalk around the
tallest mound. (Site # )
San Marcos
de Apalache Historic State Park
148 Old Fort Road St. Marks, Florida 32355 Wakulla County
148 Old Fort Road St. Marks, Florida 32355 Wakulla County
850.925.6216
Located at
the confluence of the St. Marks and Wakulla rivers, Native Americans used the
site of Fort San Marcos de Apalache for thousands of years. The fort was built
by the Spanish in 1600s to protect the Spanish missions in the area. The park
museum displays pottery and tools unearthed near the original fort and explains
the history of the San Marcos site, a National Historic Landmark. (Site #
)
Fort George
Island Cultural State Park
State Road A1A South Jacksonville, Florida 32226 Duval County
State Road A1A South Jacksonville, Florida 32226 Duval County
904.251.2320
Native
Americans feasted here, colonists built a fort, and the Smart Set of the 1920s
came for vacations. A site of human occupation for over 5,000 years, Fort
George Island was named for a 1736 fort built to defend the southern flank of
Georgia when it was a colony. Today´s visitors come for boating, fishing,
off-road bicycling, and hiking. Small boats, canoes, and kayaks can be launched
on the tidal waters. One of the seven parks which collectively comprise
Talbot Islands State Parks. (Site # )
Florida
Museum of Natural History
University of Florida Cultural Plaza
3215 Hull Road Gainesville, FL 32611-2710 Alachua County
University of Florida Cultural Plaza
3215 Hull Road Gainesville, FL 32611-2710 Alachua County
(352)
846-2000
Archaeology
enthusiasts will especially enjoy exhibits in the Hall of Northwest Florida
Waterways and Wildlife and the Hall of South Florida People and Environments.
Florida’s fossil record is on prominent view in the Hall of Florida Fossils. 10
am-5 pm weekdays, 1-5 pm Sun., closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Paynes Prairie
Preserve State Park,
100 Savannah Boulevard Micanopy, Florida 32667 Alachua County
100 Savannah Boulevard Micanopy, Florida 32667 Alachua County
(352)
466-3397
Within this park is the site of
Fort Chokonikla, built in late 1849 as an outpost in a chain of forts
established to control the Seminoles. A museum at the visitor center depicts
the lives of Florida’s Seminoles and pioneers during the 19th century. Today,
nature enthusiasts can enjoy walking along trails through the park’s natural
areas, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
(Site # )
http://www.floridastateparks.org/paynesprairie/default.cfm
Micanopy
Historical Society Museum and Archives
Cholokka Boulevard at Bay Street, Micanopy 32667 Alachua County
Cholokka Boulevard at Bay Street, Micanopy 32667 Alachua County
(352)
466-3200
Located in
the town named after Seminole Chief Micanopy, the museum has a display of
Native American artifacts ranging in age from 5000 to 500 years and copies of
the 16th century DeBry engravings of American Indians. William Bartram's
drawings and sketches show local native flora and fauna. View portraits of
Seminole War chiefs from the McKenny-Hall Portrait Gallery of American Indians.
Read period newspaper articles to experience the troubled times of the Second
Seminole War, when Fort Micanopy was a site for US soldiers defending area
settlers. Open every day 1-4 pm. Call for group tours. Donation suggested.
Mount Royal
Archaeological Site
136 William Bartram Drive, Welaka 32193 Putnam County
136 William Bartram Drive, Welaka 32193 Putnam County
(386) 467-9709
Mount Royal
has been a favored location for people to live for thousands of years. First
observed by William Bartram in 1765, the site was excavated by archaeologist Clarence
B. Moore in 1893 and 1894. Moore found that the site included a Native American
Burial mound, earthworks, a village area, and a Spanish mission, Antonio de
Enacape, occupied by Timucua Indians. Moore unearthed an embossed copper breast
plate, polished stone tools, pearl and shell beads and decorated ceramic
vessels. The mound was constructed between 1250-1500 AD. The mission was built
by the Jesuits who left in 1572 and then was occupied by the Franciscans from
1573 to 1587. Archaeologist B Calvin Jones salvage excavations at the village
site in 1983 and in 1994-1995, revealed evidence of six structures. These
buildings contained Spanish artifacts and were part of the Mission of San
Antonio de Anacape (1587-1675)
Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
11 Magnolia St., St Augustine
11 Magnolia St., St Augustine
Mission Nombre de Dios
27 Ocean Avenue., St Augustine
27 Ocean Avenue., St Augustine
Bulow
Plantation Ruins Historic State Park
3165 Old King Road Flagler Beach, Florida 32110 Flagler County
3165 Old King Road Flagler Beach, Florida 32110 Flagler County
386.517.2084
In the early
1800s, the Bulow family grew sugar cane, cotton, rice, and indigo and became
prosperous. In 1836, during the Second Seminole War, Seminoles burned the
plantation, effectively destroying it. The Bulow family did not rebuild it. The
remains of this plantation, still visible today, are located in the park. A
park interpretive center tells the plantation’s history. (Site #
)
Cedar Key Museum
State Park
12231 S.W. 166th Court Cedar Key, Florida 32625 Levy County
12231 S.W. 166th Court Cedar Key, Florida 32625 Levy County
352.543.5350
Picturesque
Cedar Key was a thriving port city and railroad connection during the 1800s.
The museum contains exhibits depicting its colorful history during that era.
The collection includes sea shells and Indian artifacts collected by Saint
Clair Whitman, the founder of the first museum in Cedar Key. In 1867, John Muir, famous naturalist and
founder of the Sierra Club, began a botanical walk from Kentucky to Florida.
Upon his arrival in Cedar Key, he wrote in his journal: "For nineteen
years my vision was bounded by forests, but today, emerging from a multitude of
tropical plants, I beheld the Gulf of Mexico stretching away unbounded, except
by the sky. What dreams and speculative matter for thought arose as I stood on
the strand, gazing out on the burnished, treeless plain! " (Site
# )
The Marion County Museum of History and Archaeology
307 S.E. 26th Terrace, Ocala Fl. Alachua County
352-236-5245
307 S.E. 26th Terrace, Ocala Fl. Alachua County
352-236-5245
http://marioncountyarchaeology.com/mcmha/mcmha.htm
Silver River
Museum and Environmental Education Center
1445 NE 58th Avenue, Ocala 34470 Marion County
1445 NE 58th Avenue, Ocala 34470 Marion County
(352) 236-5401
This unique
center is a program of Marion County Public Schools and is located within the
Silver River State Park. Exhibits feature archaeology, paleontology, ecology,
and the history of north central Florida. Highlights of the exhibits are the
full size skeletons of the Pleistocene short faced bear and Columbian Mammoth,
ancient Indian canoes and many collected ancient artifacts. While school is in
session, on weekdays, the Center serves the school system and the grounds are
closed to the public. On weekends, the museum is staffed by park service
personnel and volunteers, and is open to the public.
Silver River
State Park
1425 N.E. 58th Avenue Ocala, Florida 34470 Marion County
1425 N.E. 58th Avenue Ocala, Florida 34470 Marion County
352.236.7148
Humans have
lived in the Silver River area for at least 12,000 years. Native American
hunting artifacts discovered in the Silver River area include knives, scrapers
and projectile points. The area was known as Ocali and was part of the Timucuan
region. Today, the state park protects the Silver River and is home to the
Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center The state park also has
a pioneer cracker village. (Site # )
De Leon Springs State Park
601 Ponce de Leon Boulevard De Leon Springs, Florida 32130 Volusia County
601 Ponce de Leon Boulevard De Leon Springs, Florida 32130 Volusia County
386.985.4212
http://www.floridastateparks.org/deleonsprings/default.cfm
Hontoon
Island State Park
Boat or ferry ride accessible only.
Boat or ferry ride accessible only.
2309 River
Ridge Road Deland, Florida 32720 Volusia
County
386.736.5309
In the
middle of the St. Johns River, 2,000-year-old shell midden mounds are found
along the shoreline and in the interior of Hontoon Island. Intricately carved
wooden animal effigies have been recovered from these midden mounds. Trails
through the island park take visitors past these ancient remains, and replicas
of the animal effigies are on display in the picnic and playground area. A
visitor center contains exhibits about the many inhabitants and uses of Hontoon
Island over the past 2,000 years. The park’s ferry boat operates daily from 8
a.m. to one hour before sunset. There is no formal charge for park entry or the
ferry ride but donations are gladly accepted.
Turtle Mound
7611 South Atlantic Avenue, New Smyrna Beach
7611 South Atlantic Avenue, New Smyrna Beach
Crystal River Archaeological State Park
3400 N. Museum Point
Crystal River, Florida 34428 Citrus
County
A National Historic Landmark, this 61-acre, pre-Columbian,
Native American site has burial mounds, temple/platform mounds, a plaza area
and a substantial midden. The six-mound complex is one of the longest
continuously occupied sites in Florida. For 1,600 years the site served as an
imposing ceremonial center for Native Americans. People traveled to the complex
from great distances to bury their dead and conduct trade. It is estimated that
as many as 7,500 Native Americans may have visited the complex every year.
Although primarily an archaeological site, the park sits on the edge of an
expansive coastal marsh. (Site # )
Fort Cooper
Historic State Park
3100 South Old Floral City Road Inverness, Florida 34450 Citrus County
3100 South Old Floral City Road Inverness, Florida 34450 Citrus County
352.726.0315
Named for
Major Mark Cooper, the fort was built during the Second Seminole War. It saw
action in 1836 with the First Georgia Battalion of Volunteers, and served as an
observation post and stopover until the war’s end. Part of the palisade wall
has been reconstructed, and a battle reenactment is staged each April during
Fort Cooper Days. (Site # )
Dade
Battlefield Historic State Park
7200 County Road 603 Bushnell, Florida 33513 Sumter County
7200 County Road 603 Bushnell, Florida 33513 Sumter County
352.793.4781
The Dade
battle ushered in the Second Seminole War in 1835. The park protects the
National Historic Landmark battlefield and the natural communities as they
existed when the soldiers and Seminoles battled over 170 years ago. The visitor
center has information and displays about the battle and a 12-minute video history.
An annual battle reenactment in late December commemorates the Seminole attack
on Major Dade’s command. (Site # )
Hernando
Historical Museum
601 Museum Court, Brooksville 34603 Hernando County
601 Museum Court, Brooksville 34603 Hernando County
(352)
799-0129
Built in
1856, this 12-room, 4-story Victorian mansion exhibits over 10,000 artifacts
including many from archaeological excavations of mounds in Hernando County.
Docents provide guided tours. Open noon-3 Tues.-Sat
Fort Foster
Hillsborough River State Park, Thonotosassa, Hillsborough County
Hillsborough River State Park, Thonotosassa, Hillsborough County
813.987.6771
Within
Hillsborough River State Park is a replica of Fort Foster, a Second Seminole
War military fort built in 1836 and occupied until 1838. The fort guarded a
military bridge over the Hillsborough River. An interpretive center contains
exhibits on the fort, Seminoles, and Second Seminole War.
Safety
Harbor Mound at Philippe Park
2525 Phillippe Pkwy, Safety Harbor, Pinellas, Florida 34695 Pinellas County
2525 Phillippe Pkwy, Safety Harbor, Pinellas, Florida 34695 Pinellas County
(727) 669-1947
Tucked away
within the boundaries of Philippe Park and jutting out over Old Tampa Bay, an
ancient mound continues to stand as silent sentry for the history of the people
that came before us. Here the mighty Tocobaga thrived and made pottery and
other artifacts that gave name to the Safety Harbor Culture dating from about
1000 AD until the first Europeans landed in Pinellas County. (Site #
)
Safety
Harbor Museum of Regional History
329 S. Bayshore Boulevard, Safety Harbor 34695 Pinellas County
329 S. Bayshore Boulevard, Safety Harbor 34695 Pinellas County
(727)
726-1668
The museum
offers a rare opportunity to trace the history of Safety Harbor and the
surrounding Tampa Bay area from prehistoric to modern times. Dioramas and
displays tell the story of Florida’s first people and the arrival of Spanish
explorers in the 16th century. (Site #
)
Tampa Bay
History Center
801 Old Water Street, Tampa 33602 Hillsborough County
801 Old Water Street, Tampa 33602 Hillsborough County
(813)
228-0097
Archaeological
evidence in the Tampa Bay area dates to the 18th century when Cuban fishermen
and their Tocobaga workers plied the waters of Tampa Bay at the end of the
Spanish occupation. On display are artifacts used by the native population of
the Hillsborough County area, as well as reproduced objects and tools from the
archeological excavations at Key Marco.
Weedon
Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center
1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg 33702 Pinellas County
1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg 33702 Pinellas County
(727)
453-6500
This
3,700-acre nature preserve on Old Tampa Bay was home to at least four
prehistoric cultures. Perhaps the most celebrated group was the Weeden Island
Culture whose distinctive ornate pottery was first recorded on Weedon Island in
1924 by Jesse Walter Fewkes of the Smithsonian Institution. (The cultural period
is spelled differently from the island.) Public programs, guided hikes and
exhibits interpret the rich natural, cultural and archaeological history of the
preserve.
Anderson-Narváez
Mound at Jungle Prada Mound Park
1700 Park Street N, St. Petersburg 33710 Pinellas County
1700 Park Street N, St. Petersburg 33710 Pinellas County
(727)
347-0354
Known as the
Anderson-Narváez Site after the 600-man Pánfilo de Narváez expedition that
allegedly landed here in 1528, the public portion of the multi-mound site is
nestled in a wooded park overlooking Boca Ciega Bay. The private portion, owned
by the Anderson Family, is open for educational and cultural events as
scheduled on website. Artifacts from the site and information about Tocobaga
Indians are on display in the Greenhouse Museum. (Site # )
The Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science
2201 Michigan Avenue Cocoa, FL 32926 Brevard
County
321-632-1830
321-632-1830
http://nbbd.com/godo/BrevardMuseum/WindoverPeople/index.html
Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site
Bayshore Drive Palmetto, Florida Manatee County
Bayshore Drive Palmetto, Florida Manatee County
Designated as Florida’s first archaeological monument in
1949, the Madira Bickel temple and burial mound complex reflect native
occupations from about 1,700 to 800 years ago. A trail leads to the top of the
mound. Archaeological excavations have disclosed at least three periods of
Native American cultures, the earliest dating back 2,000 years. (Site # )
http://www.floridastateparks.org/madirabickelmound/default.cfm
Portavant
Temple Mound at Emerson Point Preserve
5801 17th Street W, Palmetto 34221 Manatee County
5801 17th Street W, Palmetto 34221 Manatee County
(941)
721-6885
Visit the largest
temple mound in the Tampa Bay area, overlooking the scenic Manatee River.
Emerson Point Preserve has witnessed extensive human use for over 4500 years.
The most striking evidence is the 1200-year old temple mound and surrounding
village middens. Interpretive signs describe the lifeways of ancient Indians
and Florida pioneers. 8am - sunset daily. (Site # )
De Soto
National Memorial's Street Address:
8300 De Soto Memorial Hwy Bradenton, Florida 34209 Manatee County
8300 De Soto Memorial Hwy Bradenton, Florida 34209 Manatee County
In May 1539,
Conquistador Hernando de Soto’s army of soldiers, hired mercenaries, craftsmen
and clergy made landfall in Tampa Bay. They were met with fierce resistance of
indigenous people protecting their homelands. De Soto’s quest for glory and
gold would be a four year, four thousand mile odyssey of intrigue, warfare,
disease, and discovery that would form the history of the United States. (Site
# )
South Florida Museum
210 10th Street W, Bradenton 34205 Manatee County
210 10th Street W, Bradenton 34205 Manatee County
(941) 746-4131
Paynes Creek
Historic State Park
888 Lake Branch Road Bowling Green, Florida 33834 Hardee County
888 Lake Branch Road Bowling Green, Florida 33834 Hardee County
863.375.4717
Within this
park is the site of Fort Chokonikla, built in late 1849 as an outpost in a
chain of forts established to control the Seminoles. A museum at the visitor
center depicts the lives of Florida’s Seminoles and pioneers during the 19th
century. Today, nature enthusiasts can enjoy walking along trails through the
park’s natural areas, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. During the 1840s,
tensions between the settlers and Seminole Indians prompted authorities to
establish a trading post in Florida´s interior, away from settlements. Built in
early 1849, the post was attacked and destroyed by renegade Indians that
summer. In late 1849 Fort Chokonikla was built nearby as the first outpost in a
chain of forts established to control the Seminoles. (Site # )
South
Florida State College Museum of Florida Art and Culture,
600 West College Drive, Avon Park 33825 Highlands County
600 West College Drive, Avon Park 33825 Highlands County
(863)
382-6900
http://mofac.org/exhibits/permanent/archaeology-of-florida/
Historic
Spanish Point
337 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey 34229 Sarasota County
337 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey 34229 Sarasota County
(941) 966-5214
Explore over
5,000 years of human history on this 30-acre National Register site. Features
include “A Window to the Past,” a unique exhibition built inside the
prehistoric midden, a burial mound with interpretive signage, and an Archaic
Period horseshoe shaped midden.
http://historicspanishpoint.org/
Indian Mound
Park
210 Winson Avenue, Englewood 34223 Sarasota County
210 Winson Avenue, Englewood 34223 Sarasota County
(941)
474-3065
This
Sarasota County park, also known as Paulsen Point, was occupied from
approximately 1000 BC-1350 AD. Ancient people were attracted by the abundance
of seafood, the mainstay of their diet. Groups such as the Manasota Culture
created ingenious ways to use natural resources to craft their clothes, tools,
vessels and ornaments.
Charlotte
County Historical Center
22959 Bayshore Road, Charlotte Harbor 33980 Charlotte County
22959 Bayshore Road, Charlotte Harbor 33980 Charlotte County
(941) 629-7278
Discover
many stories of the ancient people who fished in the Calusa heartland estuaries
thousands of years ago. Enjoy hands-on activities for all ages, educational
programs and tours to learn about today’s preservation projects centered at
historic Bayshore Live Oak Park on the beautiful Charlotte Harbor waterfront.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Hobe Sound, Palm Beach County
Hobe Sound, Palm Beach County
772.546.2771
http://www.floridastateparks.org/jonathandickinson/default.cfm
Loxahatchee
River Battlefield/Riverbend Park
9060 Indiantown Road, Jupiter 33478 Palm Beach County
9060 Indiantown Road, Jupiter 33478 Palm Beach County
(561) 966
-6617
Riverbend
Park is an oasis of natural beauty located along the Loxahatchee, Florida’s
first nationally designated Wild and Scenic River. The park was the site of two
historic battles between the Seminole Indians and the U.S. Military in 1838.
Riverbend Park has 5 miles of waterways and 15 miles of trails wandering over
700 acres of marsh and subtropical terrain.
The Richard
and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum
300 North Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33410 Palm Beach County
300 North Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33410 Palm Beach County
(561)
832-4160.
Housed in
the historic 1916 Palm Beach County Courthouse, the Richard and Pat Johnson
Palm Beach County History Museum displays artifacts from the Seminoles and the
ancient Indians that once inhabited Palm Beach County. Featured are
Seminole artifacts and clothing; a rare cypress woodcarving of a kneeling man,
which dates to 900-1200 A.D., and was found in the Pahokee area in 1928; a
large conch shell gorget (900-1200 A.D.) recovered from the Pelican Lake Indian
Mound near Pahokee; an Archaic Period coral spear head from a previously
unknown site along the shore of Lake Okeechobee; and other artifacts.
Calusa
Heritage Trail Randell Research Center at Pineland
13810 Waterfront Drive, Pine Island 33945 Lee County
13810 Waterfront Drive, Pine Island 33945 Lee County
(239)
283-2062
This 0.7
mile interpretive path leads to observation platforms for vistas from 30-foot
high Calusa mounds and by canals and other features of the Pineland
archaeological site. Signs provide information about the Calusa, their
environment and the people who have lived at Pineland since the Calusa.
Parking, restrooms and a picnic area. 10 am-4 pm daily except Thanksgiving and
Christmas.
Museum of
History, Fort Myers
2031 Jackson Street, Fort Myers 33901 Lee County
2031 Jackson Street, Fort Myers 33901 Lee County
(239) 321-7430
Discover the
first humans who inhabited Southwest Florida from the Paleo-Indians to the
Calusa and the Seminoles, at the Southwest Florida Museum of History. Exhibits
including dioramas and artifacts highlight the culture, customs, and technology
of these tribes along the waterways and the Gulf of Mexico. Authentic replicas
of Calusa shell tools, masks, weapons, a Seminole dugout canoe and chickee, are
enhanced by extensive interpretive signage and displays of earthenware,
jewelry, and more.
Mound House
451 Connecticut Street, Fort Myers Beach Lee County
451 Connecticut Street, Fort Myers Beach Lee County
(239)
765-0865
Experience
old Florida at Mound House where Estero Island's oldest standing structure sits
on an ancient Calusa Indian mound. Through archaeology and history, 2,000 years
of island life are revealed in a variety of programs including kayak and boat
tours, group programs and volunteer opportunities. The Stories Beneath Our Feet
exhibit lets visitors walk inside a Calusa mound to view the layers of the
shell and earth used to build the site.
Mound Key
Archaeological State Park
Boat accessible only.
Estero Bay, Lee County
Boat accessible only.
Estero Bay, Lee County
(239)
992-0311
Mound Key is
believed to have been the ceremonial and political center of the Calusa Indians
when the Spaniards first attempted to colonize southwest Florida.
Archaeological investigations indicate that Mound Key was occupied at least
2,000 years ago. In 1566, the Spanish governor of Florida established a
settlement on the island with a fort and the first Jesuit mission in Spanish
Florida. Accessible only by boat, the island features outdoor exhibits that
explain the lifeways of the people who built the mounds as well as nature
trails to the top of the mounds.
The Collier
County Museum
3301 Tamiami Trail East, Naples 34112 Collier County
3301 Tamiami Trail East, Naples 34112 Collier County
(239)
774-8476
Journey back
over 10,000 years of Southwest Florida’s unique past to learn about mastodons
and fierce saber cats, Calusa and Seminole Indians and the rugged pioneers who
settled one of America’s last frontiers. Free admission.
http://www.ahtahthiki.com/
HistoryMiami (Museum)
101 West Flagler Street Miami, FL 33130
HistoryMiami is the official repository for all
archaeological materials collected by Miami-Dade County and also houses
artifacts collected from archaeological sites in Broward, Collier, Miami-Dade
and Monroe Counties. The Seminole Indian artifacts include patchwork, dolls,
beads, silverwork, basketry and wooden dugout canoes.HistoryMiami’s Object Collection
consists of three-dimensional artifacts related to South Florida. The
collection contains artifacts ranging from pre-Columbian pieces to contemporary
items, such as tools, furniture, boats, aviation materials, clothing, musical
instruments and religious objects. The collection includes over 37,000 items,
mostly from the twentieth century, and an additional 550 cubic feet of
archaeological material.
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Florida
Pioneer Museum
826 North Krome Avenue, Florida City 33034 Miami-Dade County
826 North Krome Avenue, Florida City 33034 Miami-Dade County
(305)
246-9531
The museum
is housed in an original Florida East Coast Railway station agent’s house,
built by the railroad company in 1904. On permanent exhibit are displays of
artifacts unearthed locally of very early Native Americans who roamed the area
as far back as 10,000 years ago to the Seminoles who were here through the
area’s pioneer days. Museum is open seasonally, November through May.
Indian Key
Historic State Park
Accessible only by boat.
Accessible only by boat.
Islamorada,
Monroe County
305.664.2540
In 1840
Chakaika, leader of the “Spanish Indians,” led a raid on the settlement at
Indian Key that burned all but one building of this prosperous town, then the
county seat of Dade County. Oral traditions of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians
of Florida assert that some members of their tribe are descendents of
Chakaika’s group. The Indian Key town ruins are on display, along with
interpretive panels of the town’s history. (Site #
)
Miami Circle
Discovered in the heart of downtown Miami in
August/September, 1998, the Miami Circle could be an open air enclosure for a
special activity, or for a chief's residence. The Circle was occupied 2,000
years before the Spanish arrived so we have no direct knowledge of its use. The
Tequesta chose this site where the Miami River meets Biscayne Bay and with the
Everglades to the west to build their village. The location gave access to the
offshore reefs in the ocean and fish from the river, plus an abundance of
plants from the Everglades. With all the resources of food and raw materials
for tools, the village became large and occupied both banks of the river. A
number of charcoal and bone samples were dated, indicating the site is about
2,000 years old, well before the Calusa Indians reached a comparable level of
development. The Miami Circle site was abandoned by 1200 A.D. There were many
common Tequesta relics found at the site — tools and perhaps decorative items
made from shells and other aquatic materials like shark teeth. There is no
visitor center and no public access to this site at this time.
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