Floridiana Magazine

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Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival

Only in Florida can you toss mullet, dance with pirates, watch swamp buggies race, or feast on swamp cabbage—all part of the flavorful and festive traditions found across the state.

Of all the festivals I’ve been to over the years, the Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival is the only one I’ve been to where the stars of the show are slimy, wriggling, and completely unaware they’re part of the entertainment. Before I made my way to Sopchoppy, which also happens to be the Worm Gruntin’ Capital of the World, I didn’t have the faintest idea what worm grunting was all about. I mean, how exciting could coaxing worms out of the ground really be? But curiosity got the better of me—and I couldn’t resist digging in.

What is Worm Grunting?

Worm grunting is simply a method used to lure the worms out of their burrows using a wooden stob and a roopin’ iron. By driving the stob into the ground, then rubbing the roopin’ iron over the top, the result is a grunting sound that causes the stob to vibrate. This vibration is sent into the ground and is said to mimic the movement of a mole – one of the worm’s enemies – and cause the worms to surface.

Interestingly enough, in 1881, in his book “The Formation of Vegetable Mould Through the Action of Worms,” Charles Darwin theorized this phenomenon: “It is often said that if the ground is beaten or otherwise made to tremble, worms will believe that they are being pursued by a mole and leave their burrow.” His theory was proven correct 127 years later (2008) when Vanderbilt biologist Ken Catania traveled to the Apalachicola National Forest and tested the hypothesis.

Why Sopchoppy? Why did this small Florida town become ground zero for worm grunting in the United States? 

Back before plastic lures were used for fishing, worm grunting was THE way to get live worms for bait – especially in the Apalachicola National Forest and surrounding areas due to the flatwoods and good topsoil. The worms aren’t just your run of the mill worms. These earthworms are a native species for the forest.

Sopchoppy resident Lossie Mae Rosier (1927-2011) is given credit for starting the practice of worm grunting in the area. Beginning in 1950 she began harvesting the worms and used the money she made selling them as fishing bait to raise her 11 children. (Rosier went on to be crowned the Queen of the Worm Gruntin’ Festival in 2003.)

Worm Gruntin’ Festival queen Lossie Mae Rosier with others in Sopchoppy. 2004. State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory.

Others began to follow suit and the harvesting reached its peak in the 1960s when hundreds of worm grunters traipsed through the Apalachicola National Forest gathering millions of worms.  The popularity was so intense the Forest Service stepped in and started issuing permits out of the concern for these native worms.  Gary Revell, who calls himself the “Worm Man,” is a legend in these parts and has been worm grunting for about 70 years, learning from his father.  He says at one time there were 700 permits, but now he is one of the last ones to hold a permit.

Gary and Audrey Revell | Floridiana Magazine | Doris Keeler

Gary and his wife Audrey are still worm grunting, but on a much smaller scale. And they are annual fixtures at the Worm Gruntin’ Festival.

History of Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival

Now in its 25th year, the Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival started as a way to celebrate this tradition. Held on the second Saturday in April, the festival draws thousands of people to the Sopchoppy Depot Park. The day starts with a fun run and culminates with the Worm Grunters Ball. In between there are vendors and food trucks, live music, and the crowning of the Worm Gruntin’ Festival Queen. But probably the highlight of the day is the worm grunting contest for kids 12 and under.

Field of worm grunters. | Floridiana Magazine | Doris Keeler

Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin” Festival | Floridiana Magazine | Doris Keeler

Concentration is key to worm grunting | Floridiana Magazine | Doris Keeler

You haven’t seen anything until you’ve seen these kids – armed with stakes and metal rods – get down to business in a field next to the depot.  The field, once a parking lot, is seeded with worms in advance to give these youngsters a chance at a successful haul.   And just like they are trying to coax the worms out of the ground, their moms and dads, grandparents, and other family members are there coaxing them on, offering advice, and helping to watch for the little wrigglers to emerge.

A helping hand | Floridiana Magazine | Doris Keeler

As the contest wears on, the plastic cups fill up. Some of the young grunters give up their tools to their parents. Others stick with it until the end.

Wiggly worms – the stars of the show | Floridiana Magazine | Doris Keeler

To Gary Revell, seeing the children participating creates hope that one of these kids will be inspired and take to the woods and continue the tradition.

What else is there to do in and around Sopchoppy?

Whether you are in Sopchoppy for the festival or just looking for something to do, there are a few places you don’t want to miss while you’re there.

The Sopchoppy Train Depot Museum: The museum sits in the center of town and serves as a small museum celebrating the town’s early railroad days.  Once a vital stop along the Carrabelle, Tallahassee and Georgia Railroad, the depot offers a glimpse into the town’s history and features local artifacts, photographs, and stories of the region’s development. Even the train that ran through Sopchoppy played a part in the worm grunting history, picking up worms that had been harvested and distributing them to fishing stores throughout Georgia. And yes, there’s a wall devoted to the history of worm grunting in the area.

Sopchoppy Depot Museum | Floridiana Magazine | Doris Keeler

A Stroll through Town: A walk through Sopchoppy takes the history out of the museum and onto the streets.  From the old Martha Syfrett Revell Rooming House to the historic brick buildings (circa 1900s) turned into coffee and pastry shops, Sopchoppy remains a living testament to old Florida.

Downtown Sopchoppy | Floridiana Magazine | Doris Keeler

Rooming House | Floridiana Magazine | Doris Keeler

Other Points of Interest: In addition to the local culture, visitors to the area can spend time at the Ochlockonee River State Park, the Myron B. Hodge City Park, the Sopchoppy Opry, and George Griffin Pottery.  Within a short drive of Sopchoppy is the Wakulla Springs State Park, the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, and other small towns like Carrabelle.

Turns out, worm grunting is one of those wonderfully weird Florida traditions that you have to see—and hear—to believe. Between the small-town charm, the lively crowd, and the unmistakable sound of a roopin’ iron at work, the  Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ Festival  is yet another reason to love Florida’s quirky festival scene.

Enjoy some of my photos in the slideshow below.

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Carrabelle, Florida: Get Hooked  

Carrabelle. A quaint little town on U.S. 98 along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. It’s a town most folks drive through to get to Apalachicola or St. George Island.  But for those who choose to venture off the main road, there’s a town full of history, some unique attractions, a beautiful beach, and a fisherman’s paradise – all which prove why it’s easy to get hooked on Carrabelle.

City of Carrabelle Clock | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

History of Carrabelle

Carrabelle’s rich history spans centuries, from the Native American tribes that originally inhabited the area, to the Spanish explorers who established a presence in the area and made it a focal point for trade and exploration.

Carrabelle’s natural resources also played a significant role in shaping its history. Fishing became a vital industry, with the Gulf waters providing a bounty of seafood that sustained the local community and supported trade. The forests surrounding Carrabelle led to the rise of a thriving timber industry and fueled the growth of sawmills and lumber operations.

How Did Carrabelle Get Its Name?

In the early 1870s, Oliver Hudson Kelly, a farmer from Massachusetts, visited the area to study the potential for agriculture for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  He was impressed by the natural resources he saw and, in 1877, founded the town of “Rio Carrabella” or “beautiful river.” It’s believed Kelly named the town after his niece Caroline Arrabella Hall. The town was incorporated in 1893.

Impact of World War II

During World War II, Carrabelle played a significant role in the war effort. The town’s strategic coastal location made it an ideal site for military training and operations. In 1942, Camp Gordon Johnston was established near Carrabelle, becoming a crucial training center for amphibious warfare. The camp trained about a quarter million soldiers on the coast of Carrabelle in beach landings, waterborne maneuvers, and other essential skills needed for the war’s Pacific and European theaters. The Camp was closed in June of 1946.

Camp Gordon Johnston – a critical training area during WWII | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Aerial View of Camp Gordon Johnston, 1942-1946 | Floridiana Magazine

Carrabelle Museums

While you’re in Carrabelle, you can get a glimpse of all its history, thanks to three separate museums honoring World War II, the town itself, and the Crooked River Lighthouse.

Camp Gordon Johnston World War II Museum

The museum preserves and showcases the history of Camp Gordon Johnston. Visitors to the museum can take a step back in time and explore a wide range of artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide insights into the training programs, equipment, and daily life of soldiers who were stationed at the camp.

Welcome to Camp Gordon Johnston | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Museum displays capture the attention of even the young. | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Living Quarters | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and is located on Highway 98 West.  There is no charge for admission, but donations are welcome.

Carrabelle History Museum

From its indigenous roots to its maritime heritage, the Carrabelle History Museum offers a comprehensive look at the town’s cultural fabric. The museum is housed in the old City Hall on Avenue B. Visitors are met with a wide variety of displays – from the history of Carrabelle, to the importance of salt in WWII and its connection to the Forgotten Coast, fishing equipment, the history of shipwrecks and the lumber industry, and the tales of local legends. You will also find the original “World’s Smallest Police Station” on display in the museum.

The Carrabelle History Museum is open Wednesdays from noon until 5:00 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., and Sunday from noon until 5:00 p.m.   There is no charge for admission.

Carrabelle History Museum | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Display of salt kettle and cannon | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Fishing was a vital industry. | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The original World’s Smallest Police Station | Floridiana Magazine

Crooked River Lighthouse Keeper’s House Museum & Park

Built in 1895, the Crooked River Lighthouse provided guidance for timber ships and fishermen through the pass between Dog Island and St. George Islands. The 103- foot iron and steel structure was built on the mainland as a replacement to the three lighthouses that once stood on Dog Island. Crooked River was decommissioned in 1995, just shy of its 100th anniversary.

The lighthouse was lit with what was believed to be the first bivalve fourth order Fresnel lens installed in the United States at the time. The lens remained in the lighthouse until 1976, when it was moved to the Coast Guard’s district offices in New Orleans.  The light was recently refurbished and is now on permanent display inside the museum.

Crooked River Lighthouse, Carrabelle, FL | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The accompanying Keeper’s House Museum is a replica of the original keeper’s house. Not only does it house the Fresnel lens, it also shares the history of the lighthouse, maritime trade, and the families who lived and worked in the area.

Keeper’s House Museum | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

 

Although the park is open every day from dawn until dusk, you can only visit the museum and gift shop Thursday through Sunday from noon until 5:00 p.m. Lighthouse climbing is limited to Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 until 4:00 p.m.  As a side note, there are 138 steps to the top. There is no charge for the museum, but there is a small fee to climb the lighthouse.

Unique Attractions of Carrabelle

Like other small towns, Carrabelle lays claim to a few surprising oddities that must be included on your to-do list in town.  The World’s Smallest Police Station and a Bottle House attract people from all over the country, if not the world.

World’s Smallest Police Station

This unique attraction started as a phone in a call box in 1953 bolted to the wall of a building in town. It was a convenient way for officers to answer police calls while out walking the beat, even though they often got wet when it was raining. Unfortunately, the phone was misused by folks in the community, and it was decided to move the box to another location.

That didn’t remedy the situation, so when the phone company replaced an old phone booth, it was the solution the town was looking for.  The old phone booth was moved to its current location on Highway 98 in 1963 and the police phone was installed.  It was dubbed the World’s Smallest Police Station. Now, the officers could answer their calls and stay out of the elements.  The dial was eventually removed because of continued misuse by residents.  What you see now on Highway 98 is a replica of the original booth. You can see the real thing inside the Carrabelle History Museum.

World’s Smallest Police Station, Carrabelle, FL | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The World’s Smallest Police station is a favorite for all ages. | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Carrabelle Bottle House

Also close to downtown, sits a shining example of one man’s ingenuity – a house and lighthouse made from glass bottles. Over a year’s time, Leon Weisner crafted more than 6,000 bottles he got from his friends and neighbors, a recycling center, or from dumpster diving. The bright blues and greens of the bottles shine in the sunlight. If you’re lucky enough to be there at dusk, the lights inside the structures come on for several hours.

There is no admission charge, just make sure you close the gate when you enter and exit so the resident dogs do not get out.

Carrabelle Bottle House | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

 

Other Things to See and Do in Carrabelle

The Beach

The public beach is a popular destination for those looking for some fun in the sun.  The white sugar sand beaches offer a place to relax in the Gulf waters or watch dolphins play offshore.  Beach goers also have access to the newly renovated Wayside Park pavilions and restrooms.

Carrabelle Beach | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The Riverfront

Not all water activities are centered around the beach.  Carrabelle is a working waterfront community that also provides access to recreational fishing and boating. The New River and Crooked River join at the Carrabelle River and connect to the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you fish from the Carrabelle River Walk or schedule a charter boat, salt water and freshwater fishing offer up some good catches.

Along the riverfront | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Boating, fishing … fun on the water | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Dining

One of the fun parts of visiting small towns is finding new places to eat. There are several to choose from in Carrabelle, but there are only so many places you can eat in one day. During our visit we stopped in Harry’s Bar and ordered our lunch from the adjacent Marine Street Grill.  Good food and a fun atmosphere.

Harry’s Bar and Marine Street Grill | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Always look up! | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

How to Get To Carrabelle

Carrabelle is located on Highway 98 along the Gulf of Mexico 20 miles east of Apalachicola and about 50 miles southwest of Tallahassee.

Final Thoughts

Carrabelle is one of many small towns dotting the Florida coastline.  It’s old Florida at its finest and once you visit, we’re sure you will get hooked on Carrabelle as well.

Click on the slideshow below to see more of our pictures from our visit to Carrabelle and leave a comment about your favorite Florida small town.

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Florida Caverns State Park

If you’re looking for a unique old Florida adventure, you’ll want to add Florida Caverns State Park to your list. Located in Marianna, in the Florida panhandle, this park offers a stunning cave system that’s been attracting visitors for decades. And while the caverns are the main draw for the park, there are plenty of other things to do as well.

History of the Florida Caverns State Park

Imagine walking through a cave that formed millions of years ago when sea levels were much higher than they are today. As time progressed, the sea receded and the limestone rock that remained was slowly eroded by water. The result: a series of intricate underground caves that are now enjoyed by more than 100,000 visitors each year – Florida Caverns State Park.

CCC Worker Statue at Florida Caverns State Park

CCC Worker Statue, Florida Caverns State Park | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

In the 1930s, a government surveyor discovered the caves, and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) went in and developed a walkable cave system for visitors. The CCC removed mud, widened the passages, and excavated – all by hand.  A rock still visible inside the caverns was used as a guide for the CCC workers. They tied a rope to the rock and around their waists.  When the lights went out, they could follow the rope back to the rock where they could see the light to the entrance. It is said that many of them also hit their heads on the stalactite hanging directly above it, a common occurrence even among cave visitors today!

Rock on ground in cavern

Rock used to guide CCC Workers, Florida Caverns State Park | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The CCC was hard at work for four years constructing trails, lighting in the caverns, a golf course (no longer in use), the Visitor Center, a picnic shelter, and roads and trails on the eastern side of the park. But their work ended abruptly with America’s entry into World War II. During the war, the park was used as a training site for the Army and the caves were used for storage.

The Florida Caverns Become a Park

Florida Caverns State Park

Entrance to Florida Caverns State Park | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Established in 1942, Florida Caverns State Park became the 7th state park in Florida.  It was also the first state park in Florida to offer tours of underground caves.  Expansions have taken place at the park over the years, new trails added, along with a camping area and public boat ramp.

The State was forced to close the park down for nine months however, for cleanup and repairs from Category 5 Hurricane Michael in 2018. Michael wiped out more than 90% of the Park’s forest and damaged many of the facilities.

The park is open again and continues to be a popular destination in the Florida panhandle.

Guided Tours of Florida Caverns

The main attraction at the park is the caverns where you can meander through a dozen or so cave “rooms.” Tours begin outside the gift shop where basic instructions are provided.  Visitors are then led down a path to the cave at the bottom of 35 steps. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour lasts 45 minutes to an hour and includes walking through narrow passageways and areas where the ceilings only four and a half feet high.  Park literature says the tour is moderately strenuous, but I personally found it to be an easy walk.

Entering the cavern

35 Steps lead to the cave entrance, Florida Caverns State Park | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tour Highlights

The Great Room is the largest cave chamber and features towering stalagmites and stalactites that have been growing for thousands of years.  This is where that old school lesson comes in handy.  Stalactites (with a c) grow from the ceiling. Stalagmites (with a g) grow from the ground.

There’s also a formation that looks like a layered Wedding Cake and is made up of multiple stalactites that have grown together.  The Soda Straw Room is filled with what looks like delicate soda straws, which are thin, hollow tubes of calcite that have formed over time. And then there’s the Drapery Room, filled with intricate drapery formations that look like curtains hanging from the ceiling.

Wedding Cake

The Wedding Cake, Florida Caverns State Park | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Growing together

More geologic formations, Florida Caverns State Park | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Stalactites

Stunning formations, Florida Caverns State Park | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tips for Visiting Florida Caverns

If you are planning on visiting the park and touring the caverns, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your visit is a pleasant one.

  • Book your tour in advance. Tours can fill up quickly, so the best rule of thumb is to go to the gift shop as soon as you arrive and purchase your tickets for the tours. Tickets can be purchased in the Florida Caverns Gift Shop.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. The cave tour involved walking on uneven surfaces and includes navigating through some narrow and low passageways.
  • Pay attention to the park’s rules. One of the most important rules is to not touch anything while you’re inside the cave. It protects the cave system and ensures everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Bring necessary gear. If you plan to explore the park’s hiking trails, don’t forget water, sunscreen, insect repellant, and a camera to capture the beauty of the park.

Other Things to Do and See at Florida Caverns State Park

While the caves steal the spotlight, the park offers a wide range of activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Water Activities – If you want to swim, you can take a dip in Blue Hole Spring, located near the equestrian/tent camping area.  Be advised though, the spring is 64° and 30 feet deep, and there are no lifeguards on duty.

Swimming dock at Blue Hole Spring, Florida Caverns State Park | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

View of Blue Hole Spring | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

For those wanting to stay above water, canoes and kayaks can be rented in the gift shop then picked up at the canoe/kayak launch along the Chipola River.  A side note on the Chipola River.  At the launch area, the river flows underground through a cavern and reappears a quarter mile away.  During some times of the year when the water is high, part of the river continues to flow above the ground in a man-made ditch.

Canoes and Kayaks | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Canoe and Kayak launch along the Chipola River | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The story of the disappearing river | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Hiking and Nature Trails – The park features several well-maintained trails for bicyclists, hikers, and horseback riders. Trails offer a variety of routes for different skill levels and interests and provide scenic views of the woodlands and the Chipola River.

Picnicking and Camping – Whether you go for a day or a few days, there are plenty of places to camp and picnic.  There are 38 campsites including both RV and primitive tent sites.  The park also provides five picnic areas.

Campgrounds | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Picnic pavilions offer space and shade | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

History – A visit to the museum provides an historic overview of the cave formations along with the significant contributions and conservation efforts made by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during World War II.

Museum exterior | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Welcome to the Caverns | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Hours of Operation and Admission Fees

Florida Caverns State Park Guided caverns tours are offered seven days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day. From Labor Day (September) to Memorial Day (end of May) there are tours only offered five days a week – Thursday through Monday.  The tours are also not offered  Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The gates open at 8:00 a.m. and close at sunset.  Upon arrival, you will be charged a $5.00 per car entrance fee to the park.  Cave tours are $15.00 per person for individuals ages 13 and up, and $8.00 per person for children ages 3 to 12.  Children under 2 and under are free.

How to Get to the Florida Caverns State Park

Florida Caverns State Park is located three miles north of Marianna off of U.S. 90 on State Road 166.  Depending on which way you’re headed on Interstate 10, there are two ways to get there.  If you’re traveling from Pensacola, get off on exit 136, turn left on Highway 276 North and then right on Highway 90 and follow the signs. If you’re traveling from the east, take exit 142, turn right on Highway 71 North, then left on Highway 90.  Follow the signs.

Address: 3345 Caverns Road, Marianna

Phone: 850-482-1228

Plan your visit to Florida Caverns State Park and prepare to be amazed by the wonders that lie beneath the surface and above it.

And if you’re looking for something else to do in the area, just 30 minutes south of the caverns is Falling Waters State Park.

Enjoy the slideshow below on additional photos taken at Florida Caverns State Park.

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Madison County, FL

Long before I started writing about Florida, Madison County was one of my favorite places to visit.  Years ago, I spent many hours researching family history with my parents. Before county records were digitized, we would visit the courthouse and leaf through pages of old marriage records, land grants, and wills. Then we would visit Elmer’s Genealogy Library (no longer in existence) or head out to some of the old cemeteries in the county. At the time, I thought that Madison County was just another small, rural county.  Today, that’s what makes it enchanting as a county that still represents old Florida.

History of Madison County

Just six years after Florida became a U.S. territory in 1821, Madison County was established in 1827 from Jefferson County and was one of 15 counties at the time.  Named after James Madison, the fourth president of the United States, Madison’s early economy was centered around cotton and tobacco, much like other north Florida counties at the time. After the Civil War, the county rebuilt its economy with the help of the railroad which brought new industries and people to the area. Cotton was wiped out after the arrival of the boll weevil in 1916.

Today, Madison County is home to nearly 18,500 people and the key industries include education, public administration, retail, and health care and social services.

Madison County Courthouse, Built 1912 | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Towns and Cities in Madison County

Madison, Our Attraction is Only Natural

The small town of Madison is the heart of the county, established as the county seat in 1838 during the Seminole Indian Wars.  As the main hub for government and business, it has been named one of the “Best Little Towns in Florida” by Visit Florida. Madison boasts a charming downtown historic district, with quaint antique shops, gift shops, and restaurants. One of our favorite restaurants is Grumpy’s Diner.  Great food in the heart of downtown. Don’t let the name fool you.  No matter if we are in the restaurant or shopping in one of the stores, the townspeople are friendly and hospitable.

Madison, FL Train Depot | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Grumpy’s Diner | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Greenville

About 13 miles west of the town of Madison along Highway 90 is Greenville. From the highway, there doesn’t appear to be much, but one of this town’s hidden gems is located just off 90 in the Haffye Hays Park on Broad Street. That is where you will find a life-size bronze statue of musician Ray Charles.  Created by Bradley Cooley, it was placed in the park in 2005, after Charles’ death a year earlier.  Although Charles was not born in Greenville, he and his mother moved to town when he was only a month or so old. That’s where he learned to play the piano from a local café owner. Charles’ grew up in a home on SW Ray Charles Road which has been restored by the Florida Bureau of Historic Preservation. Ray lived in Greenville until he was seven, when he was sent to The Florida School for the Deaf and Blind in St. Augustine. He continued making frequent visits to Greenville to see his mother, until she died when he was only 15.

Ray Charles Bronze Statue, Haffye Hays Park, Greenville | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Ray Charles’ Childhood Home | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Ray Charles’ Childhood Home | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Things to See and Do in Madison County:

The Treasures of Madison County Museum

When you travel to Madison County, there are a few things you must see while you’re there. First things first, a stop by the Treasures of Madison County Museum on Range Avenue. Located in the W.T. Davis Building, one of the buildings of historic importance in town, the museum offers an impressive look at the history of the county. Take a stroll through time in the museum’s exhibits. From military to medicine, to churches and vintage clothing, the space is filled with artifacts and memorabilia.

Treasures Museum in the W.T. Davis Building. Built 1890s | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Don’t forget to pick up your copy of the Historic Walking/Driving Tour brochure | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Four Freedoms Park and Four Freedoms Monument

Four Freedoms Monument is number one on the museum’s tour brochure. Situated in the picturesque Four Freedoms Park, which takes up an entire city block, the monument commemorates the Four Freedoms identified by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in his 1941 State of the Union Address: Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Worship, Freedom from Want, and Freedom from Fear.  The monument is dedicated to Madison County native Colin P. Kelly, Jr., who was recognized as one of the first U.S. heroes of World War II.  It also honors other Madison County servicemen who died in WWII. The statue was originally dedicated in 1943 in Madison Square Garden in New York City to a crowd of 60,000 people. It was moved to Madison and rededicated in June of 1944.

Four Freedoms Monument, Madison County | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The park also pays tribute to the Confederate soldiers of the county. The “Our Confederate Soldiers” statue was unveiled by the Daughters of the Confederacy in 1905, and although there have been plans to remove the statue, as of May 2023, it still stands. Other memorials within the park commemorate the First Baptist Convention and Former Slaves of Madison County.

Tribute to Madison County’s Confederate Soldiers | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine (May 2023)

Madison County Courthouse

Across Base Street (Highway 90) from the park is the Madison County Courthouse.  Built in 1912, it is the county’s fourth courthouse and the third one built in the city of Madison. The first courthouse was a log building in San Pedro, which also served as the county seat from 1828-1838. The courthouse was abandoned along with the town. The second courthouse was built in 1840 and burned in 1876. It was replaced by a brick structure in 1880 which was destroyed by fire in 1912. Most of the county records, some dating back to 1831, were saved. The courthouse is still in use today.  It has never been added onto or expanded.

Madison County Courthouse as seen from the Four Freedoms Park | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Standpipe/Watertower

Behind and to the right of the courthouse is the standpipe, built in 1894 as part of the city of Madison’s first public water supply. According to the April – June 2002 issue of The Madison County, Florida Genealogical News, the tower is 100 feet tall and held 133,000 gallons of water when it was completely full. Water was free until January 1, 1895, and then consumers were charged for their usage. The standpipe is no longer in use but is believed to be one of only two standpipes still in existence in Florida.

Standpipe at the Madison County Courthouse | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Wardlaw-Smith-Goza Conference Center

No visit to Madison is complete without a drive by the Wardlaw-Smith-Goza Conference Center. The property sits on Highway 90 (Base Street) on the south and Marion Street on the north. Built in 1860, it served as a hospital for both Confederate and Union troops during the Civil War. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

Wardlaw-Smith House | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Wardlaw-Smith House Historic Sign | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Backroads of Madison County

Of course, once you get out of downtown, the county is home to many backroads that offer beautiful views of the countryside, old churches, and old buildings. One of my favorites is Highway 53 north out of town to the Cherry Lake community or Highway 145 north into Pinetta.

Go slow, pull over to let others pass if you have to, and enjoy the scenery. Oh, and don’t be afraid to turn onto a dirt road or two. You’ll never know what you might find.

Madison County, FL Backroad | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Old Tobacco Structure, Madison County, FL Backroads | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Old Tobacco Structure, Madison County Backroads | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Shiloh Methodist Church, Madison County, FL | Photo by Doris Collins Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

How to Get There

Madison County is located north of Interstate 10 about six miles at Exit 258 (Highway 53).  From Tallahassee, travel east on U.S. 90 bout 55 miles. It is also about 112 miles west of Jacksonville.  Madison County is indeed a faraway place that’s not very far away.

Please like our post, share it on social media, and leave a comment about Madison County. And if you like Madison County, you’re sure to like Monticello.  Check it out here.

See our slideshow below for more photos from our adventures into Madison.

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Falling Waters State Park | Home of Florida’s Tallest Waterfall

A visit to any of Florida’s 175 state parks is a good day in and of itself. Whether it’s Blue Spring State Park in Orange City to view the manatees, or the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park in Cross Creek to see where the famed author spent her time writing, our state parks offer a variety of experiences.

Did you know there is a Florida State Park that boasts the state’s tallest waterfall? Falling Waters State Park can make that claim and is definitely one park to put on your to-do list.

Falling Waters State Park

THE PARK

Falling Waters State Park is located just south of Chipley in the Florida Panhandle and is comprised of 173 acres and offers a glimpse of what Florida looked like when Spanish explorers first arrived about 500 years ago. Park literature says the land shows evidence of habitation as early as 5,000 years ago and that Native Americans were still living in the area during the British occupation of Florida in 1778. Fast forward more than 240 years and even more is known about the area. In some places, the trail system actually crosses over an “underlying cave system where trained divers using specialized equipment have mapped more than 400 feet of passage beneath the park. These caves and sinkholes play a crucial role in recharging underground supplies of Florida’s drinking water.”

THE WATERFALL

Let’s be honest, when you think of waterfalls, you probably think of the mountains in North Carolina or Georgia, but Florida has its fair share of them as well. They just aren’t as tall and although the highest in Florida is just under 75 feet, it is impressive.

A wooden stairway leads down into the mouth of a 100-foot-deep sinkhole. It’s the closest point to observe the waterfall as the water cascades from a creek into the bottom of the sink then disappears into a cave. On the day of our visit, the sign at the park entrance said the waterfall flow was moderate. Standing close to it, it felt more powerful than that. You could hear the roar and feel the strength of the water as it crashed over the edge.

Fortunately, recent rains had created a stronger flow, which in turn provided a better viewing experience. Summer thunderstorms could result in a raging torrent, or a drought could slow the water to a trickle. Two other observation decks provide picturesque views of the waterfall – with the upper overlook offering the best look at the entire waterfall system. Photos aren’t bad from this location either.

Getting to the waterfall was not as difficult as I expected. A concrete walkway and wooden boardwalks made the hike easier. Steps leading down to them could be tricky if they were wet, but handrails make the descent safer.

OTHER THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Although the waterfall is the centerpiece of the park, there is more to see and do. From the lake to the trails to the camping areas, there is something for everyone.

Turtle Lake

Turtle Lake was created to provide a consistent water supply to the waterfall. The overflow from the two-acre lake actually leads to one of the original creeks that feed the waterfall.

Swimming is also a favorite pastime at the lake. Whether you want to sunbathe on the white sandy beach or take a dip in the water to cool off on a hot Florida day, the lake is one of the draws to the park. And there are good fishing spots, too. You just need to have a state freshwater fishing license.

Hiking Trails and History

Three hiking trails provide ample opportunities to see the lush landscape and or any of the twelve sinkholes within the park. Whether it’s the upland pine forest, a hardwood hammock, or the ferns growing along the trail, there is plenty of natural beauty to behold.

The trails also provide a walking history of the park. During the Civil War, the waterfall powered a grist mill for making corn within the park’s boundaries. A legal whiskey distillery was also operated near the falls in the late 1800s and the spirits were sold at a site that would later become Chipley. Farther along the trail, the remnants of an oil well can be seen. The first oil well was drilled in 1919 but was capped off two years later when it failed to produce commercial quantities of oil.

ADDITIONAL SITES TO SEE

If visiting the waterfall, hiking or swimming isn’t enough, you can also get a glimpse of butterflies in the butterfly garden, let your children play on the playground, or spend a weekend camping at one of the sites. Besides boasting the tallest waterfall, Falling Waters State Park can also claim the highest elevated campground in Florida. Pine Ridge Campground has 24 campsites equipped with water, electricity, picnic tables and ground grills.

How to Get There

If you are on Interstate 10 in the panhandle, exit south on State Road 77 (exit 120). Follow SR 77 about a mile to State Park Road, then go east and follow the signs to the park entrance.

The park is open 8:00 a.m. until sunset 365 days a year, unless there are extenuating circumstances. An entrance fee is also required. At the time of this post, that fee was $5.00 per car.

Watch the slideshow below for more photographs of Falling Waters State Park.

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Bradley’s Country Store

Whether it was during my time at Florida State University in the 80s, or family visits to Tallahassee to see my uncle and his family at Thanksgiving, Bradley’s Country Store was always one of those places we had to go. We’d load up on sausage then count the days until our next visit.

It wasn’t until I started this blog in 2017 that I began to appreciate the value of hidden gems like Bradley’s. So, when I moved to Tallahassee in October 2020, I put it at the top of my list of old Florida places to visit near my new home. My only question: Why did I wait so long to go?

The drive to Bradley’s is well worth the 12-mile trip from Tallahassee. Two-lane canopy-covered Centerville Road provides a peaceful, relaxing journey. It’s a journey that is regularly made by thousands of locals, as well as visitors from throughout the Southeast. When we arrived on a recent Saturday, the front parking spaces were full, as well as the adjoining picnic area and spaces across the street – a testament to its popularity.

The Store

From the road, Bradley’s looks like you would expect an old country store to look.  There is no glitz or glamour, no neon lights to draw you in.  In fact, the exterior of the store holds true to its heritage, looking much the same as it did in 1927 when Bradley’s opened its doors for the first time. The storefront itself is iconic and can be seen in photos across social media platforms. The front porch is a throwback to grandma’s porch, with its wooden rocking chairs, reaching out to the traveler to “come and sit a spell.”

Inside, the old country store charm continues. The history of the store can be seen on walls and counters wherever you turn. Three aisles of merchandise, from fresh vegetables to Bradley’s branded sauces and preserves, and old-fashioned hard candy await visitors.  An old Coca Cola drink case filled with bottled sodas sits just inside the front doors, along with a juke box and a manual cash register that no doubt has seen its share of sales. Photos of the Bradley family, along with old newspaper clippings, and a framed presidential note of thanks for Bradley’s grits are also on display.

The Sausage

The main attraction, however, is at the back of the store, Bradley’s famous country smoked sausage. A chalkboard spells out the offerings, a meat case holds the goods, but it’s not until you bite into the sausage that you understand why it is so popular. Bradley’s is very selective about the ingredients in the sausage they sell.  It is seasoned and smoked using the same recipe Grandma Mary Bradley used four generations ago. Oak and green hickory are used to cure the sausage out in the smokehouse behind the store. The aroma from the smokehouse permeates your senses as you walk past it.

On any given Saturday, you can expect to stand in line to get one of Bradley’s daily lunch specials – a six-inch sausage dog with chips and a drink.  The line moves fast, and the service is friendly and personable.  While the sausage dogs are divine, make sure to order up a pound or two of the sausage links.  If you get back home and want more (or want to share with friends and family across the country), Bradley’s also ships their sausage.  Just visit their website to place your order.

Grits!

While sausage is Bradley’s claim to fame, another draw to the store is its country milled grits.  Just outside of the main store is the mill house which houses the grist mill used for grinding corn into cornmeal and grits. History has it when the mill opened nearly a century ago, local farmers and sharecroppers visited the mill house to have their own corn ground for personal use.

True to history, the mill was cranking the Saturday we were there – ground corn falling into tubs below, an old Ford 600 tractor providing the power to keep the mill churning.

Bradleys_WorkingMill

Visiting Bradley’s Country Store

Four generations of the Bradley family have kept the business going and thriving, while at the same time holding on to family traditions. As their brochure states, they are “A Link with the Past.”  So, if you’re tired of today’s rat race, take a visit to yesterday.

Bradley’s Country Store is located at 10655 Centerville Road, just outside of Tallahassee. Once you get there, plan on staying awhile and enjoy the peaceful country atmosphere.   Sit on the front porch or enjoy your lunch on the picnic tables under the trees.  Additional tables and a pond are located just across the street.

Bradley’s is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  The store is closed Sundays and major holidays.

Whether you are roaming the aisles in the store itself, or walking around the grounds, it is truly an old Florida treasure to be experienced.

Watch the slideshow below for more photos of our visit to Bradley’s Country Store.

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Eight Ways to Experience Florida from the Comfort of Your Home

Let’s face it.  We are living in an unprecedented time.  The state of Florida is under a stay at home order, parks are closed, museums are closed, and attractions are closed.  While we can’t get out and enjoy them in person, we can still visit – virtually.

Grab your computer, your phone or your tablet, and experience Florida from the comfort of your home.

Archbold Biological Station

Located in Venus (yes, that’s in Florida), Archbold Biological Station is a research institute that focuses on the environment of the Lake Wales Ridge and parts of Central Florida. Formed in 1941, it encompasses a large area of Florida scrubland.  Normally, the Station is open for visitors, providing a glimpse into its work, from conservation to science to nature and living green, through displays and hiking trails. Guided tours are also available, but at a cost.

For now, those opportunities are not available, so Archbold has created a Discovery Classroom Virtual Field Trip.  This is a free weekly 25-minute virtual field trip and will focus on the following topics:

  • April 7: Lake Wales Ridge
  • April 14: Hicoria: A Brief History of a Florida Ghost Town
  • April 21: Fire
  • April 28: Wildflowers

How to participate, register for the classes through Archbold’s website.

Bok Tower

Also located in Central Florida, Bok Tower sits atop Iron Mountain in Lake Wales. Founded by Edward W. Bok, the gardens opened to the public in 1929 and now feature nearly 50 acres of palms, ferns, oaks and other trees. The centerpiece of the gardens is the 205-foot Bok Tower.  Known as the Singing Tower, it houses one of the finest carillons anywhere in the world.  With 60 bells, the tower would normally ring out with concerts every day.

Bok Tower | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Even though the gardens are closed, Bok Tower is offering regular live concerts from the Tower, as well as virtual walks along the pathways and fun activities like “Name that Tune.”

How to join: Follow Bok Tower Gardens on Facebook and take advantage of all of their activities.

Castillo de San Marcos

One of the state’s top tourist destinations, Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.  Made of coquina, the fort was built more than 315 years ago to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the New World.  While walking through the fort is an unforgettable experience, you can still take a tour from home.

How to join:  Click here for the Castillo de San Marcos Virtual Tour, presented by University of South Florida Libraries and the National Park Service.

Central Florida Zoo

The zoo may be closed, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get up close and personal with the animals who live there. The Zoo to You is a daily live event featuring a different animal and fun activities for kids. Some of the featured animals so far include porcupines Pancake and Pluto, and giraffes Gage and Rafiki.    Follow along on Facebook every day at 2:00 p.m.  Tune in for Double Feature Friday which presents two live events at noon and 2:00 p.m. If you miss any of the episodes, just scroll through their timeline and watch them all.  You may just make a few new friends!

How to join:  Follow Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens on Facebook.

Central Florida Zoo | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Gatorland

Gatorland is one of those original Florida theme parks, opening more than 70 years ago.  Its iconic gator mouth welcomes visitors into its 110 acres of alligators, crocodiles, petting zoo, aviary and observation tower.   The park may be closed, but the gators and other wildlife have to be fed.  So, while a limited crew is on site, they are providing daily activities through School of Croc every day at 10:00 a.m. (live on Facebook) and at 5:00 p.m. on their YouTube Channel.  Gatorland plans to provide these live feeds until the park is able to reopen.

How to join:  Follow Gatorland Orlando on Facebook or watch Live at Five on Gatorland’s YouTube channel.

Kennedy Space Center

Situated on Florida’s east coast and just a short drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center offers a glimpse into the past, all while creating a sense of excitement over the future of the space program.  During regular times, visitors can walk among the Rocket Garden, visit the Astronaut Hall of Fame, take a bus tour of NASA property, and stand in awe of the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

Although the Visitor Complex is temporarily closed, KSC is providing daily educational presentations on topics like moon rocks, living and working in space, and building a rocket out of a paper towel roll. In addition to the videos provided on Facebook, there are also virtual learning resources available.

KSC goes live at 9:30 a.m. for younger children and 1:00 p.m. for others.  If you miss any live streams, scroll through their Facebook feed and watch them.  You can also click on the videos tab on their Facebook page to watch additional videos.

How to join:  Follow Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on Facebook.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Mount Dora

Mount Dora is one of those charming towns in Florida you can’t help but visit time and again.  With an historic downtown, plenty of activities on the lake, and numerous festivals throughout the year, there is something for just about anyone.  Mount Dora is, as the sign says, someplace special.

While a lot of the activities have been canceled or postponed in Mount Dora, you can still get your daily dose of this quaint little town through a live feed of downtown.  The Lakeside Inn has also been hosting live concerts through their Facebook page.

How to join:  Click on this link to the live feed and Lakeside Inn, Mount Dora on Facebook.

Mount Dora | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

Majestically reaching 175 feet into the sky, the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in the state, and second tallest masonry lighthouse in the United States, behind the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Unfortunately, you can’t climb the 203 steps to the top right now, but you can participate in the Ponce Inlet Virtual Tour.

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

These are just a few of the Florida places we have found offering virtual tours or live daily updates on social media.  If you are looking for something specific, try looking them up on Facebook to see if they are offering any virtual tours.  We have discovered more of our favorites are adding live events to keep in touch.  If you see something, please leave a comment along with a link and we will make sure to highlight it on our Facebook page.

Don’t forget we have a checklist of Florida places to visit.  Print it out and start making plans on where you want to go once this passes.  We even left some blanks for you to fill in your own.

Florida Travels_Checklist

Stay safe.  Stay at home.

 

 

Florida Travel Checklist | Start Planning Today

For many of us, getting out and enjoying what this beautiful state has to offer is a way of life and one that can easily be taken for granted.  With the current corona virus closures and social distancing recommendations, we can do one of two things – brood about it or make the most of it.  We opt for the latter.  So, we thought, why not look back at all of the places we’ve been, start a list of where we would like to go, then make plans to go once this has all passed.

We have traveled to many beautiful and unique places in the three years we have been doing this blog.  So to help you in your future plans, we invite you to print out this checklist, check off where you’ve already been, then make plans to get out and explore.  If you want information on any of these places, simply search for them on this site and add to your to-do list.

Florida Travels_Checklist

We left room on the list for you to add your own places to explore, just make sure you share those locations with us.

 

*Note – if you have problems downloading the checklist, please email us at FloridianaMag@gmail.com.

 

Black Hammock Adventures | Airboats and More

Admittedly, I am not the most adventurous person you’ll ever know.  Maybe that comes from tipping over in a canoe, cautiously watching dozens of alligators from a canoe in the middle of a lake, or a startling encounter with a snake along a park trail.  So, when I decided on an airboat ride for the latest Florida adventure, let’s just say I was a bit apprehensive at first.  However, it turned out to be one of my most favorite outdoor activities – ever – thanks to Black Hammock Adventures.

Black Hammock | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

The Airboats

Located on Lake Jesup in Oviedo, Black Hammock Adventures has been providing airboat rides for more than 15 years.  Their boats are approved by, and the captains licensed by, the U.S. Coast Guard.  Needless to say, they know what they are doing.

After purchasing tickets in the gift shop, it was down to the dock to wait for boarding.  Airboat rides leave every 30 minutes, so you will not wait very long for your excursion.  Our boat had a grand total of seven, which included six passengers and the captain.  It could easily have seated another nine passengers.  The captain started with a brief safety review, informed us of the noise and the need to wear the provided ear protection, and offered a short background of the lake.  Then we were off on our adventure.

Black Hammock Airboats | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Picking up speed, we glided gracefully along the smooth waters of the lake.  The bright sun and blue sky created the perfect conditions, although there was a chill in the air.  Needless to say, the weather was on our side.  Since the boat wasn’t at capacity), we could see the wildlife and fauna on both sides of the boat.

The first part of our excursion took us off the main lake and into a cove of sorts.  Idling along the shoreline, we saw osprey flying overhead and alligators in the water – one sunning himself on a log, another lazing nearby, a limpkin just beyond.

Just hanging out | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

If I walk away slowly, maybe he won’t see me! | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

After a leisurely ride along the south shore, we picked up speed and headed across the lake to the north shore.  Making our way across the marshes and several quick airboat turns, we ended up in another part of the lake with an abundance of wildlife.  Great blue herons waded along the shore, anhingas perched, drying off their wings, ducks skimming across the water, and, of course, more alligators lazed on or near the shore. Lake Jesup is said to have one of the densest populations of alligators in the state.

Great blue heron | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Photo by Floridiana Magazine

American alligator | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

After meandering along the shore, we head back across the lake to the dock.  For someone who was apprehensive at first, I felt a little disappointed when we disembarked.

Dropping off our ear protection, we were led back to the gift shop for the grand finale – a “close encounter” with a small gator.

My new best friend?

Other Things to See and Do

If you’ve never been to Black Hammock, don’t think it’s something you drive out to, take your airboat ride, then turn around and leave.  There is much more to do and see.  Free exhibits include a parrot jungle, an alligator viewing area, and Hammy – a 12-foot alligator born in 1968 and weighing in at around 600 pounds.  His personal bio says he was the one selected from over 100 alligators to retire at Black Hammock.

Parrots at the Parrot Jungle | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Happy gators! | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Meet Hammy | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

After seeing all of the alligators, if you’re craving some “gatorlicious appetizers,” head up to the Black Hammock Restaurant.  Of course, there’s much more to eat that just gator!

Gator meat! | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Our spur-of-the-moment trip to Black Hammock made for a perfect day.  From the airboat ride, to lunch at the restaurant, and a drink at the Lazy Gator Bar, this is one adventure that will be repeated.

Please take a moment and watch our slideshow below of more of our trip to Black Hammock.

Oh, and be sure to like us on Facebook and Instagram.

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Cedar Keys Light Station at Seahorse Key

Cedar Key exudes the description of an “old Florida” town.  Quaint houses. An historic downtown.  Friendly people. The first time I visited Cedar Key was when I worked for Gainesville television station WCJB in the 80s.  Not much has changed since then, but now I view it with a different lens.  I view it as a Florida resident simply interested in the history and beauty of our state.

My most recent trip to Cedar Key was for the purpose of touring the Cedar Keys Light Station during the town’s Seafood Festival in October.  Although Tropical Storm Nestor caused the cancellation of the first day of the festival, it cleared out in time for a beautiful Sunday and a picture-perfect day for a boat ride to Seahorse Key.

Entrance to Seahorse Key | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

The boat ride itself took about thirty minutes. Low tide meant a little navigational skill was needed to get us to our destination, but once there, the views from the island were breathtaking.

Cedar Keys Light Station

Stepping off the boat, the lighthouse was in full view.  Unlike other lighthouses we have visited and climbed, Cedar Keys Light Station is a two-story structure, with the typical spiral staircase leading to the lantern room.  The climb consists of 35 steps, but unfortunately, the stairs were blocked off during our visit, so we could not go to the top to get the panoramic view of Seahorse Key.

Cedar Keys Lighthouse | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Steps to top of lighthouse | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

New light installed | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

The lighthouse is the oldest standing lighthouse on Florida’s west coast.  Built in 1854, at one time the light could be seen for fifteen miles. It was not only a navigational beacon but was also instrumental in bringing commerce to Cedar Key.

Less than eight years later, the Civil War interrupted life as it was known. At the beginning of the war, the lighthouse fixtures were dismantled and sent to Waldo for safekeeping.  In January of 1862, Union forces on the U.S.S. Hatteras blockaded the keys and destroyed an army barracks and cannons on Seahorse Key.  The lighthouse did not sustain any major damage. In 1866, following the war, the lighthouse was repaired and returned to service. It remained in commission until 1915, due to a significant decrease in vessels using the port.

In 1952, the University of Florida worked out an agreement with U.S. Fish & Wildlife entered to lease the property and establish a marine laboratory. The light station now serves as a dormitory for groups visiting the island for educational purposes.

Seahorse Key Dock | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

After more than 100 years in the dark, the lighthouse was reactivated July 5, 2019.  The fourth-order Fresnel lens that was originally used in the lighthouse, was replicated by Artworks Florida, an Orlando-based company specializing in the restoration of lenses.  In its finished stage, the lens is 36 inches tall and weighs 125 pounds and is lit only during special events.

Other Things to See on Seahorse Key

Birds and Beauty

One of 13 islands that make up the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, Seahorse Key is said to be the highest elevation on Florida’s west coast.  The sand dune on which the lighthouse was built, is 52.3 feet high which is noticeable when walking the trail from the back of the lighthouse, down to the shore along the Gulf of Mexico.

Unlike other Florida beaches, this one is untouched.  A leisurely walk and keen observation can lead to amazing discoveries.

Steps from the beach to the top of the dune | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

The beach at Seahorse Key | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Horseshoe Crab | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Hooded warbler | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

The island and a 300-foot buffer around it are closed from March 1st to June 30th to protect nesting birds.

Cemetery

Another interesting find on the island is a small cemetery with about a dozen headstones. Some of those buried include William Wilson, the first lighthouse keeper (1854 – 1855), and Catharine Hobday, the assistant lighthouse keeper from 1872 to 1879. Catharine was also the only woman to serve at the Cedar Keys Light Station. Her son Andrew was the longest serving lighthouse keeper (1871 – 1890).

Other headstones include two local fishermen from the 1800s and sailors from the U.S.S. Fort Henry and the U.S.S. Union.

Make sure to take the mosquito warnings seriously.  This short walk to the cemetery and back included quite a bit of itching and scratching for sure.

Cemetery on Seahorse Key | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Catharine Hobday Tombstone | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Navy sailors tombstones | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Seahorse Key, managed by the Lower Suwannee Wildlife Refuge, is about three miles off Cedar Key and is only open to the general public during open house events.  There are usually about four open houses during the year.  The dates listed so far for 2020 include Wednesday, March 4th and Wednesday, March 18th.

Check out the Nature Coast Biological Station website for future events on Seahorse Key.

Other Fun Facts

  • The name “Cedar Keys” came from two American explorers who were searching for cedar timber near the Suwannee River.
  • Seahorse Key got its name because the land formation resembles a seahorse.

Please view our slide show below of additional photographs taken on Seahorse Key and be sure to leave us a comment on your own adventures of the island.

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