Entertainment and history at our two National Monuments

Ranger Jesse Olbrich told local Historic City News reporters that on Saturdays at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, volunteers will be able to participate in regular drill sessions in the courtyard and public musket demonstrations.

According to this week’s issue of Castillogram, Olbrich says that planners are aiming for a 2:00 p.m. drill session every Saturday and a 2:30 p.m. musket demonstration.

“These sessions would be open to any of our volunteers, whether they are new to our Manual of Arms and Close Order Drills or old pros looking to brush up on their skills,” Olbrich said. “Whatever the case may be, grab your musket and come out to the Castillo.”

On Friday and Saturday, June 14th and 15th, Castillo de San Marcos will host a special cannon school for the 450th Youth Ambassadors.

This cannon school is only open to the Ambassadors, but Ranger Joe Brehm has invited any volunteer who wishes to help train the students on the cannon drill, especially on Saturday, to come out and participate.

On June 24-28, July 8-12 and August 5- 9, the Castillo de San Marcos will be holding a “Hands on History” camp. The camp will feature different crafts and hands on activities including basic history of the National Park Service, masonry, making tee shirts, Native American crafts, soldiers’ lives, and the evolution of artillery.

The camp will run from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. each day and will be free, but space is limited. If you or someone you know has a child who wishes to participate or would like to help out please contact Ranger Amelia Mest.

The Historic Weapons Program Demonstrations are scheduled regularly at both Parks — weather and personnel permitting.

Castillo

Friday, Saturday & Sunday; 10:30, 11:30, 1:30, 2:30, & 3:30 (Cannon)
Other dates & times as personnel and conditions allow
Contact: Rangers Joe Brehm

Fort Matanzas

“First Saturday” Cannon Firings – July 6, August 3, September 7, October 5 (British Navy), November 2, December 14
Contact: Ranger Chris Leverett

Every month, usually on the 1st Saturday, Fort Matanzas National Monument hosts a Living History Day. The theme is usually 1740s Spanish and cannon firings throughout the day. Medical displays in the officer’s quarters, weapon displays on the gundeck, and soldier’s personal items and skills in the guards quarters are all welcome to be portrayed.

Interpretive fishing (ie. 1740s style) can also take place at the seawall. These living history days take place every month throughout the year. Please make plans to attend.