Saint Augustine Garrison to receive Adelaide Sanchez Award

Historic City News readers will want to attend the St Augustine City Commission meeting on February 22nd when Maria and Bob Alvarez are presented the prestigious Adelaide Sanchez Award for Historic Preservation, Restoration, Education and Interpretation on behalf of the Saint Augustine Garrison.

Presentation of this high honor received the unanimous support of the entire Commission.

“When it comes to a face-to-face experience with the past, there is no substitute for live interaction with a person from the past, a resident of St. Augustine from a previous century,” Director of Public Affairs for the City, Paul Williamson, told local reporters. “That experience is only made possible because of the personal investment of time and resources and the deep commitment one sees in the members of the Saint Augustine Garrison.”

The Saint Augustine Garrison has been bringing the city’s history to life for millions of people for more than three decades. They are a group of historical reenactors, easily recognized by their striking blue uniform jackets and red cuffs, who portray the life and times of Spanish soldiers and their families in the 1740’s.

In addition to a near constant presence at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the Garrison also stages monthly “Changing of the Guard” ceremonies at Government House and the annual Colonial Nightwatch on the first Saturday in December, as well as a two-day military and civilian encampment in March.

The organization’s unwavering commitment and unique role in the interpretation of St. Augustine’s history will be recognized by the City Commission on February 22nd. Robert Alvarez, current president of the Garrison, and Maria Alvarez, Historic Florida Militia Board Member, will accept the award on behalf of the Garrison. The meeting begins at 5:00 p.m. in The Alcazar Room, City Hall, 75 King Street.