Recognize Florida’s Hispanic history

Governor Rick Scott and the Florida Department of State have invited Historic City News readers to recognize the Hispanic/Latino culture’s contributions to Florida during Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15th to October 15th.

This month, join the Florida Park Service in “Recognizing the Past, Honoring the Present and Celebrating the Future” at one of these 15 state parks that are rich in Hispanic traditions.

“Hispanic culture has long influenced Florida’s rich history and 15 state parks preserve and honor that contribution,” said Donald Forgione, director of the Florida Park Service. “I encourage Florida residents and visitors to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by visiting a state park steeped in Hispanic history.”

The following Florida state parks offer a window into Florida’s Hispanic heritage:

Northeast Florida

• Big Talbot Island State Park, Jacksonville
• Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine
• Fort Mose Historic State Park, St. Augustine
• San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park, Alachua
• Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Micanopy

Northwest Florida

• Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, Ponce de Leon
• San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park, St. Marks

Central Florida

• De Leon Springs State Park, DeLeon Springs
• Tomoka State Park, Ormond Beach
• Sebastian Inlet State Park’s McLarty Treasure Museum, Melbourne Beach

Southwest Florida

• Cayo Costa State Park, Boca Grande
• Mound Key Archaeological State Park, Estero
• Ybor City Museum State Park, Tampa
• San Pedro Underwater Archaeology Preserve State Park, Islamorada
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West

About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails:

The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999, 2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association.

Florida’s 174 state parks, trails and historic sites inspire residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500 miles of multi-use trails, residents and visitors should plan to visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app, available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your experience while visiting. For more information, visit http://www.FloridaStateParks.org