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Exploring History Ocala is home to many beautiful parks and recreation facilities. One of those sites, the Fort King National Historic Landmark, is worth exploring. // B Y K A R I N F A B R YCUSHENBERY
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he Fort King National Historic Landmark marks the location of the birthplace of Marion County and the City of Ocala. In 2017 the first phase of reconstruction, which was based on old drawings and a collection of historical photos, included the full-size fort replica. The visitor’s center includes a collection of displays, including a working Howitzer Canon used for events and reenactments. Visitors should also check out the 12-minute video highlighting Ocala’s rich history. And it’s a great starting point when exploring Fort King. “We sit on a unique spot here in Ocala,” says Keifer Calkins, outdoor historic resource program supervisor for the City of Ocala. “We have the only fort in Florida preserved to the extent that it is. And the city council and county commission just approved a 15-year master plan to complete the build out.” In the meantime, though, there is plenty to enjoy at the park. In addition to walking through and exploring the fort, there is a 1-mile nature trail that meanders its way through the 42-acre property. Take the dog (leashed, of course) or meet up with friends to explore the trail. Follow the green paint indicators to remain on the trail. The Seep Spring on property holds water and never dries out. Keifer says the water travels through a creek and eventually empties
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into our storm water system. Last month the Archeological Resource Center opened to the public. “The center showcases artifacts that haven’t been available to the public until now,” says Keifer. “There is a mix of foundon-site and general artifacts, including an Andrew Jackson cufflink, 1800s coins, bottles, nails, buttons and other accoutrement used by soldiers.” As a matter of fact, there are over 50,000 artifacts that can be rotated through the exhibit. “There are two types of history,” explains Keifer. “The historical record includes things like letters, drawings and research that we can extract information from. We use this to develop the site to the best of our abilities. Then, we use archaeology to look even further. What gets unearthed on-site tells us how people used to live and work. Broken glass or ceramics might tell us it was a domestic space. Tools, coal and metal might tell us a blacksmith shop was on-site. We use archeological finds to
determine our history.” Since opening, the landmark has offered residents a variety of fun, engaging events. Although COVID-19 put a damper on many of those events recently, some are still a go, including the Heritage Skills Day planned for December 12. “This day-long event will include classes and demonstrations in things like rug making, broom making, outdoor cooking, blacksmithing and more,” says Keifer. “Registration is required for classes, but demonstrations are open to all.” All the info can be found on the Fort King National Historic Landmark and Visitor’s Center’s Facebook page. “Besides being an amazing resource of history, we are also a city park,” says Keifer. “You can learn about the history of your community and get out in nature right near the middle of downtown.” Fort King National Historic Landmark // Visitor’s Center open Friday-Saturday, 12-5pm // Trails, heritage garden and fort are open seven days a week, sunrise to sunset.
