Five Centuries of Florida History Day at De Soto National Memorial

Come experience Florida’s unique history through the eyes of over twenty re-enactors. On Saturday March 20^th, join us as we host re-enactors representing people from all key periods of Florida history. Visit with Spanish conquistadors, Florida Crackers, and soldiers from the Civil War to Vietnam.

Experience History -- Walk through Spanish Conquistador Hernando De Soto’s First encampment, meet with Spanish colonial soldiers from Castillo de San Marcos. Talk to soldiers from the Civil War; discuss history with G.I.’s from WWI, WWII and Vietnam. Come and experience your history first hand!

Unique Weapons and Demonstrations -- walk through time and listen to people and soldiers from the past describe what life was like and demonstrate their unique weaponry. Experience the roar of cannons, the fire of muskets, and the chatter of machine guns as you listen to reenactors tell the story of each weapon and how it was used in their times.

Native American life -- Walk through and experience life among Florida’s native peoples as National Park rangers describe life in the tribal societies in the American Southeast.

Activities for the Kids -- Make sure to bring the kids, because there will be plenty of activities for them to do, from mask painting, to dressing as a conquistador, and our free Junior Ranger program. We will be sure to keep them busy!

Admission and all activities are free. Event hours are 10:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m. demonstration times and events will be posted on the day of, all activities are subject to change due to weather.

DeSoto National Memorial is located at 8300 De Soto Memorial Hwy, Bradenton 34209. On I-75 take exit 220 SR-64 Manatee Ave. Go west to 75^th street. Travel north, the park is located at the terminus of 75^th street. De Soto National Memorial is open seven days a week. The Visitor Center is open from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m. park grounds are open from sunrise to sunset.  More information goes to: www.nps.gov/deso

941-792-0458

-NPS-

EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA

The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.