Event Details

Hidden Histories of the Dry Tortugas

Time: 7:00 pm til 8:00 pm

Location: Deering Estate Auditorium, 16701 S.W. 72nd Ave., Miami

Description: Although much of the military and architectural history of Fort Jefferson is well-documented, there are some interesting details that have not been the subject of any study. People have been compelled to leave messages on the walls of the fort using a variety of materials. These inscriptions span the first few decades of the 20th century, a time when the fort was not being officially utilized. Upcoming renovations to preserve and stabilize the fort’s overall architectural integrity put these smaller details at risk. The Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN) partnered with the National Park Service to conceive of a long term preservation solution for this historic graffiti and carried out a photographic documentation of the at-risk area. Not only did the project save this unique and fragile resource, but it unlocked a hidden history: The graffiti dates from the 1880’s to the present day, and represents the only records of the fort being used during periods of its abandonment.

FPAN is participating in this event.