Stepping Back to Florida's Hidden Gem: Fort Mose

For more than two centuries, Fort Mose, hidden deep in the heart of St. Augustine, Florida, has been a sanctuary of sorts. Established in 1738 beneath the guidance of Spanish Florida's governor, Manuel de Montiano, this hidden oasis paved the way for the first legally recognized free black settlement within the US borders. Today, this once-hidden spot is affectionately known as the 'crown jewel' along Florida's Black Heritage Trail. The Fort operated for a solid three decades, ending in 1763, providing a safe haven for those fleeing bondage from neighboring colonies.

Its diverse African residents were masters of their craft, skilled in trades such as carpentry, masonry, and blacksmithing. Archeological digs brought to light remnants of the second Fort Mose, rebuilt in 1752, on the same site. Fast-forward to 1994, and Fort Mose was designated a US National Historic Landmark. By 2025, a reconstruction of the Fort opened to the public, serving as a captivating reminder of history and a hotspot for tourists.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons