the Sunshine State page 1

the Sunshine State page 1 by ric gustafson


To begin studying this beautiful state, we need to find the fountain of youth. 11 Magnolia Avenue in St Augustine to be exact. When you reach the intersection of Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Matanzas Avenue, you will find an intersection and the beginning of Florida's identity. The Spanish name for Matanzas is slaughter or massacre. You have reached your destination when you come to an ancient arch that says ' Fountain of Youth' at the top. St Augustine was founded in 1565. The first repeat visitors to Florida were Spaniards. They were looking for people to kidnap and enslave.
We first hear of Juan Ponce de Leon in 1492. He sailed with Columbus on his second voyage across the Atlantic. In 1507, the King of Spain gives him a patent to explore Puerto Rico. In 1508, he establishes Puerto Rico's first European settlement. In 1513, Ponce de Leon was given the right  to colonize Florida. He and three ships sailed north to claim the new land. After two months, He rounded Cape Florida and headed up the Gulf Coast.
In 1513, Ponce de Leon was 38 or 39.


research help: ' Finding Florida' by T.D. Allman


Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric