Discover First America programs

Historic City News readers in St Augustine are invited to become explorers on a quest to discover the important role we played in the making of our nation, by attending each exciting Discover First America adventure program during the coming year.

Each presentation in the series will begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Lewis Auditorium on the Flagler College campus, located at 14 Granada Street in St Augustine; with the doors opening at 6:00 p.m. for early seating, lobby displays, information, and book signings.

“This free series explores facets of St Augustine’s rich history and culture,” reported Dana Ste Claire, Director of the St Augustine 450th Commemoration. The programs are presented by the City of St Augustine in partnership with Flagler College, Florida Power & Light Company, and each program sponsor.

This month’s adventure programs include:

Jan. 8, 2014 Journey: Vignettes of St Augustine’s African-American History
Chapters of St Augustine’s lengthy African-American history will come alive throughout this program. The lives of the first African-Americans will be portrayed. Also, the program will feature a re-enactment of the famous Civil Rights period sit-in at the Woolworth’s lunch counter. This program is sponsored by Tour St Augustine and St Augustine Black Heritage Tours.

Jan. 19, 2014 Let Freedom Ring
This program is brought to the St Augustine community on the eve of the opening of the 450th Commemoration signature exhibition titled Journey: 450 Years of the African-American Experience. The program will feature remembrances of landmark events that occurred in St Augustine during the 1960s by those who witnessed and experienced the events. Also, Florida Memorial College alumni will recount their important role in the Civil Rights Movement. The evening will conclude with a gospel choir performance. This program is sponsored by the St Augustine New World Center Foundation, Inc.

At the end of the programs, you will have earned your place in history, learned true legacies of St Augustine, and become a knowledgeable host for the St Augustine 450th Commemoration.