The Ringling Brothers Circus included Native Americans in their popular shows of the early 20th century. Charles Ringling’s relation to those performers is an open question.
Today, professional archaeologists must consult with Native Americans; luckily in Florida, most work closely with the Tribal Historic Preservation Office of the Seminole Tribe. It's their history we’re here to honor and we respect their heritage. Through archaeology amazing stories can be told.
The US military waged three wars in Florida; First (1814-1818), Second (1835-1842), and Third (1855-1858) Seminole Wars, which Seminoles consider one long war against them in their homeland. The Seminoles resisted removal by falling back to the southern tip of Florida, earning the title the "Unconquered People".
Many Florida place-names include "fort", such as Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Pierce yet few realize the names reflect the military forts that started the settlements that grew with the 20th century Florida Dream.
Founded in 1832, Fort Brooke led to Tampa. To cross the Manatee River in the 21st century, some use the Fort Hamer Bridge. Other forts in the Sarasota/Manatee area were Fort Starke, located on the same land of the De Soto National Memorial, and Fort Armistead, (see painting to the left) which was located near today's Ringling Museum.
The three Seminole Wars led to the highest concentration of forts in any US territory in the 19th century. Fort Armistead, is a good example, consisting of a guardhouse, bakehouse, blockhouse, tents, and a hospital which for 1840-1841 grew from 200 to 600 soldiers until abandoned due to health concerns.
(From Sarasota History Alive)
