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Amelia Island in Florida

The island of Amelia, located near the coast of northeast Florida, is easy to reach, but hard to forget. 13 miles of beaches, wildlife and pristine waters - this barrier island rightly became a favorite place for residents.

Story

Native Americans settled on the island of Amilia at the beginning of the XI century. The island they gave the name Napoyka.

In 1562 a French explorer Jean Ribot landed on the shore. He called the island of Isle de Mar. Three years later, Spanish troops led by Pedro Menendez de Avilés drove the French out. They killed Ribot and 350 French colonists.

Photo of houses on the island of Amelia in Florida - American ButlerIn 1573, the Spaniards renamed the island once again - Isla de Santa Maria. The locality was finally settled in 1685. But you do not think that this is all over? The British raiders came and destroyed the city in 1702.

James Oglethorpe, founder of Georgia, explored renamed the island to Amelia Island (what, again?) In honor of Princess Amilia, daughter of King George II of England.

The English flag was raised in 1763. During the American Revolution, Amilia became home to the English Loyalist party, who fled from the colonies.

In 1783 Spain again captured Florida. The harbor has become a smuggling center for slaves, liquor and foreign luxury goods.

In 1817 Scotsman Gregor MacGregor seized the island. He raised his flag of the Green Cross of Florida, which became the fifth flag of the island. In the same year, after McGregor had already left, the pirate Louis Auri sailed with his armada from three ships to the harbor. Three days later he raised the flag of the Republic of Mexico and declared himself ruler of the island. As you can see, Amilia was a tasty morsel for almost the whole world.

Finally in 1821, the United States took control of the territory. The island became a prosperous place: the emphasis was on shipping and tourist trade. It was the home for the first customs in the United States. The oldest newspaper in Florida was also founded there.

What to look at

Fort Clinch State Park

The largest state park of the island offers a tour of the fortress of the Civil War and see the amazing views of the embankment.

The park has a half mile fishing pier, access to the beach, walking / cycling routes, camping and picnic tables.

Entry costs $6 per vehicle (2 to 8 passengers) or $2 per cyclist. Fort tour - another $2 per person.

Fernandina Downtown Historic District

Guests can walk at their own pace at the numerous shops, restaurants, pubs and art galleries, which are within walking distance of each other.

A trolleybus tour of the main attractions and guide stories about local history are available. Enjoy a ride on a horse-drawn carriage in the historic center.

Amelia Island Museum of History

In the museum you can find out the history of the historical past of the island under eight flags. In addition to exploring the exhibits, there are walking tours of the city center. Visit the museum site for more information on excursions.

Amelia island lighthouse

One of the oldest attractions is the lighthouse, located high on the Egans Creek. It was built in the middle of the XIX century. If you want to explore this place, book a tour through the Fernandina Beach Recreation Center. The tour is held only two days a month - on the first and third Wednesday at 10am. The cost of the tour is $5 per person.

Visit Amelia Island and other barrier islands of Florida - it will be an unforgettable adventure. Will help make the desired travel agency American Butler - call!
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