Titusville’s National Police Memorial Honors Those That Protect and Serve

American Police Museum in Titusville, Florida

Being a good police officer is one of the most difficult, dangerous, (and) idealistic jobs in the world. Thomas Hauser When an officer puts on their badge in the morning, they don’t know if they’ll be able to take it off at night. And sadly, many pay the ultimate price each year serving to protect … Read more

Papa is Back! Ernest Hemingway is Alive and Well During July in Key West.

Running of the Bulls in Key West

The Hemingway Days festival in Key West is a celebration of the life and work of Ernest Hemingway. The festival features a variety of events, including a look-alike contest, a running of the bulls, and a fishing tournament. The festival is a fundraiser for scholarships, and the winner of the look-alike contest is crowned “Papa Hemingway.”

Fort Zachary Taylor: Guarding Key West from Attack For Nearly 200 Years

Fort Zachary Taylor on a sunny day in Key West

Fort Zachary Taylor is a historic gem nestled in the heart of Key West, Florida. This magnificent fortress has stood tall for nearly two centuries, playing a crucial role in defending United States interests against European powers in the Western Hemisphere. Today, it stands not only as a piece of history but also as a picturesque attraction drawing in tourists to the nearby beaches and history lovers to the well-preserved fort.

Visiting Fort Sumter: The First Shots of the Civil War Were Fired Here

Fort Sumter wall

On April 12th, 1861, Confederate forces under General P.G.T. Beauregard fired on Union forces at Fort Sumter, marking the beginning of the American Civil War. The fort was strategically placed to control access to Charleston Harbor, a vital seaport for America and the South. Despite being outnumbered and running out of supplies, Union forces held out for 34 hours before surrendering to the Confederates.

Robert Smalls: Born Enslaved, Trained as  a Sailor, Elected Congressman

Historic Footnotes Podcast - Obscure and often forgotten pieces of history

Born into slavery, Robert Smalls’ determination and bravery led him to become a hero of the Civil War. Working as a pilot on a Confederate military cargo ship, he saw an opportunity to escape slavery and bring his family to freedom. Robert and his crew seized control of the ship and navigated past Confederate gun range and into Union territory. It was then that he approached Union soldiers, and said, “Good morning Sir. I’ve brought you some of the United States old guns, Sir!”