The marsh at Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve / Erika Zambello.
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve accepted the deed on a Spanish-American War fortification from the North Florida Land Trust in a ceremony on December 14, 2018. A symbolic passing of an historic flag took place as the North Florida Land Trust ceremonially handed over the Spanish-American War fortification to the National Park Service.
Since 2015, Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve and the North Florida Land Trust have worked to save this piece of American history. The City of Jacksonville allocated $162,500, the Delores Barr Weaver fund offered a $100,000 challenge grant, and donors throughout the community helped to reach the $400,000 needed to purchase the property which was at risk of being demolished.
The Spanish-American War fortification sits atop St. Johns Bluff. It was built in 1898 as part of a U.S. coastal defense strategy in preparation for a possible naval assault on American ports. Although no such assault occurred, the gun emplacement stands as a monument to the strategic importance of the region. This history stretches from Fort Caroline's infamy as the first European conflict in the U.S., to the establishment of a British fort on the bluff, through the Civil War and the Battle of St. Johns Bluff, into the 20th century. This Spanish-American War fortification is the only one remaining.
Planning, research, and assessments are taking place as the National Park Service works to create a meaningful site for visitors to learn about the Spanish-American War. An environmental assessment and cultural landscape report are currently underway which will provide recommendations for the preservation, protection and public enjoyment of the site.
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