Battle of Massard Prairie now available thorugh Amazon

The Battle of Massard Prairie: The 1864 Confederate Attacks on Fort Smith, Arkansas is now available through Amazon.com.

The book was published last spring but became available on Amazon this week and can still be delivered in time for Christmas. To order just follow the link above and search for "battle of massard prairie."

This book tells the story of one of the few overwhelming Confederate victories in Arkansas. Fought on the open prairie outside Fort Smith on July 27, 1864, the battle involved one of the great open field cavalry charges of the Civil War, documented instances of Union troops scalping Confederate dead and the virtual destruction of an entire battalion of the 6th Kansas Cavalry.

To learn more about the battle, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/massardprairie.

Old Courthouse Museum - Vicksburg, Mississippi

One of the most fascinating local museums in the South can be found in the Old Courthouse in Vicksburg, Mississippi.

This historic structure dates from before the Civil War and was a major landmark during the siege and Battle of Vicksburg. Its clock tower can be seen in numerous photographs and drawings of the city dating from the time of the battle and it was here that U.S. troops under Gen. Ulysses S. Grant raised the United States flag on July 4, 1863, marking the end of the brutal siege.

Beautifully preserved and restored, the magnificent structure now houses a wide variety of displays and artifacts pertaining to the history of Vicksburg, the battle and the Mississippi River. Weapons, uniforms, original flags and other artifacts help visitors learn more about the battle, but the Old Courthouse also preserves its upstairs courtroom where many landmark cases were argued. Other displays tell about the great steamboats that once plied the Mississippi River. The decorative antlers from the famed paddlewheel boat Robert E. Lee can be seen.

To learn more about the Old Courthouse and other points of interest in and around Vicksburg, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/vicksburg4.

U.S.S. Cairo - A Civil War Ironclad on Display

One of my favorite historic sites in the South can be found in Vicksburg, Mississippi.

The U.S.S. Cairo, a Union ironclad, is the centerpiece of a fascinating museum at Vicksburg National Military Park. It is one of just a few surviving warships of that era and is particularly unique because you can actually climb aboard for a closer look.

Part of the Mississippi River fleet, the Cairo was built at Mound City, Illinois, and commissioned in January of 1862. She saw action in the battles of Plum Point and Memphis. In the latter engagement she played a key role in the destruction of the Confederacy's river fleet.

On December 12, 1862, however, she was sent up the Yazoo River north of Vicksburg with other vessels to drive away Confederates and open the way for an attack on the city. Instead, the ships were ambushed and as the Cairo turned to fire on Southern troops she floated over what was then called a "torpedo." This mine, connected to shore by an electric wire, was set off with a charge and exploded, sinking the ironclad.

It was the first sinking of a warship by an electronic mine in history.

The Cairo spent the next 100 years on the bottom of the Yazoo, but in the 1960s she was raised in three sections and taken to Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi, where she was painstakingly preserved. Brought back to Vicksburg, she is now the centerpoint of a fascinating museum that focuses on the vessel and the role of the U.S. Navy in the capture of Vicksburg.

If you would like to read more about the U.S.S. Cairo and see additional photographs of the ironclad, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/vicksburg2.

Battle of Vicksburg, Mississippi

For two months in the spring and summer of 1863, one of history's largest and most significant battles took place on the hills and ravines surrounding the charming Mississippi River city of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

The Battle of Vicksburg is commemorated today at Vicksburg National Military Park, where visitors can explore miles of both Union and Confederate trenches, forts, batteries and even a preserved Civil War ironclad.

The park is one of the key features in Vicksburg, a beautiful and historic city overlooking the Mississippi. If you would like to learn more, our new Vicksburg pages are now online at www.exploresouthernhistory.com/vicksburg5. Please stop by for a visit!

Battle of Prairie Grove Events set for Next Weekend

Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park in Northwest Arkansas is planning a full slate of events next weekend to commemorate the 146th anniversary of the Battle of Prairie Grove and the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the battlefield park.

Prairie Grove Battlefield is located in the town of Prairie Grove just southwest of Fayetteville and the Northwest Arkansas metro area.

The battle was one of the most significant of the Civil War and one of the bloodiest of the war in the Trans-Mississippi. Tens of thousands of Union and Confederate troops battled for control of the ridge at Prairie Gove in an all-day battle in 1862. Although the fighting ended in a tactical draw, Confederate forces withdrew during the night leaving Northwest Arkansas in the hands of the Union.

The battlefield park today is one of the most beautifully preserved in the nation. Walking trails and a driving tour take visitors through the areas of heaviest fighting and past numerous preserved landmarks, including the historic Borden House seen here. Some of the heaviest and bloodiest fighting of the day took place in the yards and orchards around the house site.

If you would like to learn more about next weekend's events, which include the unveiling of a new painting of the battle, large-scale reenactments, living history demonstrations and more, please visit http://civilwararkansas.blogspot.com. The site will offer detailed information on plans for next weekend through the coming week.

You can also read more about the Battle of Prairie Grove, Arkansas by visiting www.exploresouthernhistory.com/ArkansasPG1.

Special Three Day Holiday Sale on Books by Dale Cox

If you are interested in purchasing copies of any of my books as holiday gifts this year, you might consider checking out a special online sale that will take place for the next three days only.

Prices on all available titles will be reduced for these three days only. The sale will end on Sunday, November 30th, at midnight.

Because of a change in publishers that I will be announcing soon, this will be the only sale on any of the books this year.

The sale is now over, but check here for current pricing on my various books.

Here is a list of the current titles available:

• The Battle of Natural Bridge, Florida
• The Battle of Marianna, Florida
• The Battle of Massard Prairie, Arkansas
• Two Egg, Florida
• The History of Jackson County, Florida: Volume One
• The Early History of Gadsden County

Graves of U.S. Soldiers that Florida may close to the public

This photograph shows the Fort St. Marks Military Cemetery at San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park in St. Marks, Florida.

Buried here are soldiers from the 4th and 7th U.S. Infantry Regiments and the 4th U.S. Artillery. They died in the line of duty, primarily from sickness, while garrisoning a fort on this site from 1818 through the early 1820s.

The graves were originally located nearby at a spot that was threatened by development, so the remains were removed and brought here to the state park where they would be preserved and protected.

Now, however, the state of Florida has San Marcos de Apalache on a list of state parks that it may close (temporarily or permanent) because of budget shortfalls.

A closure of the site would, of course, restrict access to and threaten the preservation of the graves of these U.S. soldiers that died here serving their country.

Please email Florida Governor Charlie Crist at Charlie.Crist@MyFlorida.com to urge him to find alternatives that will allow San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park and a number of other Florida State Parks and historic sites to remain open to the public. There are other areas of the budget that can be cut and creative measures that can be taken to save our Southern history.

If you would like to learn more about this highly significant historic site that dates back more than 300 years, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com and look for the San Marcos de Apalache heading at the top of the main page.

Florida State Parks and Historic Sites Facing Closure - Please Speak UP!

The State of Florida is considering closing a number of its state parks and historic sites due to budget constraints.

Included among these are:

• San Marcos de Apalache Historical State Park in St. Marks - The site of Spanish fortifications dating back to the 17th century, San Marcos was occupied by British troops during the American Revolution and was among the Spanish posts captured by Andrew Jackson during his 1818 invasion of Florida. It was here that the Ambrister, Arbuthnot and Prophet Francis executions took place, sparking an international incident. The park was also the site of Fort Ward, an unconquered Confederate fort that played a critical role in the Battle of Natural Bridge, Florida.
• Constitution Convention Museum State Park in Port St. Joe - This museum preserves the site where Florida's first constitution was drafted and also protects artifacts related to the famed "lost city" of St. Joseph.
• John Gorrie Museum State Park in Apalachicola - This museum preserves artifacts in information on the life of Dr. John Gorrie, the 19th century Apalachicola physician acclaimed as the inventor of the ice machine and, as a by product, of air conditioning.

While I certainly understand the need of Florida's government to live within its budgets, surely there must be better ways of coming up with needed dollars than closing (permanently or temporarily) the state's noteworthy historic sites. Not only does this violate a trust established between the state's government and its people, it jeapordizes the history of this beautiful and great state.

Please join me in writing to Gov. Charlie Crist at Charlie.Crist@MyFlorida.com to voice your opposition to the closure of these and other Florida State Parks and historic sites and to encourage the governor to look in other areas were much greater cost savings can surely be realized.

Thank you!

Breaking News: Florida Saves Natural Bridge Battlefield!

There is major news tonight on the historic preservation front.

The governor and cabinet of Florida have voted to purchase critical property adjoining the Natural Bridge Historic State Park. The land includes the scene of much of the key fighting of the Battle of Natural Bridge.

Fought on March 6, 1865, the Battle of Natural Bridge was one of the last significant Confederate victories of the Civil War. It preserved Tallahassee's status as the only Southern capital east of the Mississippi not captured by Union troops during the war.

The battlefield is the second largest in Florida (only Olustee is larger). Today's announcement marks the first major Civil War related preservation project undertaken by the State of Florida in many years.

If you are interested in learning more about the battle, you can do so by clicking here. Also please consider my 2007 book, The Battle of Natural Bridge, Florida. It is also available through most online bookstores, including Barnes and Noble and Amazon.

Here is the official announcement released today by the Florida Forever program:

FLORIDA FOREVER AQUISTION PROTECTS CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD
AND FLORIDA SPRING
~Florida Forever acquisition preserves 54.74 acres adjacent to Natural Bridge
Historic State Park~

TALLAHASSEE— Governor Crist and Cabinet today approved the purchase of 54.74 acres of land adjacent to the Natural Bridge Historic State Park in Leon County. The acquired parcel is significant to the protection of a first magnitude spring and features a Civil War battlefield.

“This important purchase is a part of the Florida First Magnitude Springs project and one of the top projects on the Florida Forever priority list,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Deputy Secretary Bob Ballard. “This acquisition ensures that the geological, historical and cultural integrity of this property and the surrounding water resources are preserved for Floridians and visitors from all over the world to enjoy for years to come.”

This Florida Forever project focuses on land that provides increased protection for Florida’s First Magnitude Springs that discharge more than 100 cubic feet of water per second. Florida’s springs, scattered through northern and central Florida, draw from the Floridan aquifer system, which is the state’s primary source of drinking water. Springs, with clear, continuously flowing waters, are among the state’s most important natural resources and are famous attractions. This acquisition brings the Florida First Magnitude Springs project closer to completion, with 7,844 acres of the 14,081 acre project remaining.

The property contains many karst features such as sink holes, natural bridges, swallets, karst windows and submerged cave systems. By preserving the surrounding land, this project will preserve the area’s geological significance and protect Florida’s water resources from the effects of commercial, residential and agricultural runoff and other potential impacts.

The property is also the site of Florida’s second largest Civil War battle. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and cited as one of the top ten endangered Civil War sites in the United States by the Civil War Preservation Trust. In 1865, during the final week of the Civil War, the battle at natural bridge preserved Tallahassee as the only Confederate Capitol east of the Mississippi that did not surrender to Union forces. Today, important historical and cultural, resources can be found on the property dating from the Paleo-Indian period (10,000 B.C.) to the Civil War. The property will eventually be managed by DEP’s Division of Recreation and Parks as part of the Natural Bridge Historic State Park.

Originally established in 1999, the 10-year, $3 billion Florida Forever program is the largest land-buying initiative in the nation, conserving environmentally sensitive land, restoring water resources and preserving important cultural and historical sites. More than two million acres throughout the state have been placed in public ownership under Florida Forever and its predecessor program, Preservation 2000 (P2000). For more information on the Florida Forever program, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/lands/acquisition/FloridaForever/.

To view maps that outline the subject parcel in this purchase, visit the following links: www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary/news/2008/11/files/rakestraw_springs76.pdf
www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary/news/2008/11/files/rakestraw_springs77.pdf


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Fort Gaines, Georgia - History on the Chattahoochee

This is a photograph of a Confederate cannon at Fort Gaines, Georgia, framed by Spanish moss and still located in its original battery more than 140 years after the end of the Civil War.

Fort Gaines was the site of three different forts during the 19th century. The first fort, a square log stockade with two blockhouses, was built by the U.S. Army in 1816. The second fort, built during the Creek War of 1836, was held by Georgia militia forces for a few months. The third fort, built by Confederate forces, was occupied until the end of the Civil War.

One of the batteries of the Confederate fort is very well-preserved and the cannon in place there is an original, left behind and forgotten at the end of the war.

In addition to its military history, Fort Gaines offers a wide variety of historic sites and is a charming small town deeply imbedded in the frontier history of Georgia. If you would like to learn more about this fascinating community, please visit our new Fort Gaines, Georgia pages at www.exploresouthernhistory.com/fortgaines.

Providence Canyon State Park - Lumpkin, Georgia

Providence Canyon near the small town of Lumpkin, Georgia, is one of the most remarkable historic sites in the Deep South.

Despite their magnificent appearance, the spectacular canyons are not really that old.

Until the 1820s, this area was beautiful hill country. Early settlers cleared the trees and began farming, but a combination of poor conservation techniques and the unique nature of the soil allowed plow furrows to turn into erosion gullies. The gullies became ravines and, over time, the ravines became canyons.

It is astounding that pioneer farming practices could result in something so beautiful, yet Providence Canyon today is one of the most beautiful places in Southwest Georgia. To learn more, please visit our new Providence Canyon pages at www.exploresouthernhistory.com/providencecanyon.

An Artifact of the Second Seminole War

This unusual artifact was actually used by Native American warriors during an attack on a frontier family in Gadsden County, Florida, during the Second Seminole War.

A "lightard" or lightwood pine knot, it was used as a war club by Creek warriors that had taken refuge in Florida following the Creek War of 1836-1837.

Their fight against the whites continued after their flight to Florida and is remembered in that state as part of the Second Seminole War (1835-1842).

In 1840, a group of warriors attacked the McLane cabin near Telogia Creek in Gadsden County, using this pine knot to kill several members of the family.

If you would like to learn more about this incident of the Second Seminole War, please visit http://gadsdencountyhistory.blogspot.com/ where you can read three excerpts on the McLane Massacre from my new book, The Early History of Gadsden County.

Honey Springs Battlefield State Park - Oklahoma

Just north of Checotah, Oklahoma (home of American Idol winner Carrie Underwood), Honey Springs Battlefield State Park preserves the scene of the battle that some have called the "Gettysburg of the West."

Fought on July 17, 1863, the Battle of Honey Springs was a critical Union victory that halted Confederate plans to retake the northern half of what was then called Indian Territory.

A force of 3,000 Federals with 12 pieces of artillery attacked a large force of Confederates along Elk Creek. In a fight that lasted most of the day, the Southern troops were finally forced to withdraw.

The site today is well-preserved and the state park offers interpretive trails, a tour road, memorial area, visitor center and picnic tables.

Our new Honey Springs pages are now online, so I hope you will take a few minutes to check them out at www.exploresouthernhistory.com/honeysprings1.

New Blog: History of Gadsden County, Florida

In association with the release of my latest book, The Early History of Gadsden County, I have started a new page on the history of Gadsden County, Florida.

You can visit at http://gadsdencountyhistory.blogspot.com.

The new page focuses on the history, historic sites, culture, folklore and people of Gadsden County.

If you aren't familiar with this area, it is located between the Apalachicola and Ochlockonee Rivers just west of Tallahassee. Named for James Gadsden, a 19th century soldier and diplomat, Gadsden County has a rich history dating back to the Spanish era and has been the scene of a wide variety of fascinating historical events.

I'm launching the new page by excerpting a chapter from the book on the McLane Massacre, an incident of the Second Seminole War.

I hope you will drop by and, as always, feel free to comment or ask questions.

Petit Jean State Park - Arkansas

One of the most spectacular natural and historical preserves in the South, Petit Jean State Park is located just off I-40 and convenient to the Little Rock metro area.

The oldest unit in the Arkansas State Park system, the park preserves a beautiful natural and historical setting on Petit Jean Mountain.

The mountain takes its name from the old Arkansas legend of "Petit Jean," a young French girl that disguised herself as a cabin boy to follow her lover on his journey of exploration to America. Her identity was eventually discovered and she accompanied him as he and his men made their way up the Mississippi and Arkansas Rivers.

While camped at the base of Petit Jean Mountain, however, she supposedly became seriously ill and died. Local Native Americans carried her body to a beautiful spot on the summit of the mountain and buried her beneath a small mound of dirt and rock. The grave can still be seen today and it is alleged that the young woman's ghost haunts the top of the mountain that was named in her honor.

In addition to Petit Jean's grave, the mountain features spectacular views, unusual rock formations, a pre-Civil War pioneer cabin, waterfalls and more. Cedar Falls, seen here, is one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains (notice the people standing behind it in the photograph). The park also is the site of Rock House Cave, a unique rock shelter where ancient Native American cave paintings can still be seen.

If you would like to learn more about Petit Jean State Park, please visit our newly updated pages at www.exploresouthernhistory.com/petitjean1.

Talladega National Forest - Alabama

Some of the most beautiful scenery in the South can be found in Alabama's Talladega National Forest.

These historic lands were once part of the Creek Nation. Stripped from their Native American owners by the treaties of 1814 and 1832, the beautiful Talladega Mountains were opened to white timbering and settlement.

Over the decades that followed, much of the virgin timber was clear cut from the hills and the scenic beauty and value of the land all but disappeared. The forests were restored, however, during a massive Depression-era program that resulted in President Franklin Roosevelt's 1936 proclamation creating the Talladega National Forest.

The mountains today have been returned to a state of incredible natural beauty and form the centerpiece of one of the finest national forests in the South. Attractions include historic sites, mountain vistas, waterfalls, running streams, lakes, hiking trails, preserved wilderness areas, campsites, picnic areas and more. Alabama's beautiful Cheaha State Park is surrounded by the forest and provides a restaurant, cabins, chalets, hotel and more for those interested in exploring the highest mountains in the state.

To learn more about the Talladega National Forest, please visit our new pages at www.exploresouthernhistory.com/talladega.

Doug Ghee Accessible Trail at Cheaha State Park, Alabama

The historic mountains of the South are rich in beautiful scenery, but aren't always easy to explore for those with disabilities. Mt. Cheaha in Alabama, however, is different.

The park features the outstanding boardwalk seen here. Officially designated the Doug Ghee Accessible Trail, it gives visitors of all abilities the chance to explore some of the most beautiful terrain of Alabama's tallest mountain.

The accessible trail has no steps or steep inclines and leads from a paved parking area near Bald Rock Lodge out through the scene mountain forest to an overlook at Bald Rock, where visitors can enjoy one of the finest views in the state of Alabama.

The accessible trail follows roughly the same route as an early trail built by Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) workers during the 1930s. When Cheaha State Park was established during the depths of the Great Depression, Bald Rock was selected as one of the original vistas where visitors could enjoy the spectacular views from the mountain. The accessible trail now gives all visitors the chance to enjoy the setting that attracted the original designers of the park.

You can learn more about Cheaha State Park and its numerous features by visiting www.exploresouthernhistory.com/cheaha1.

Waterfalls of the Cheaha State Park Area - Alabama

The Talladega Mountains of Alabama are rich in scenic beauty, particularly in the area around Cheaha State Park.

These mountains are the highest in Alabama and offer a variety of historic sites, hiking opportunities, scenic vistas and other features rarely found so deep in the South.

Of particular interest to many visitors is the array of waterfalls found in the area immediately surrounding Mt. Cheaha. Three of these - Cheaha Falls (seen here), High Falls and Devil's Den - can be accessed via hiking trails and are relatively easy to reach.

To learn more about these falls, see additional photos and obtain directions to them from Cheaha State Park, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/cheaha2.

Remember to Vote!

Tomorrow, November 4th, is Election Day.

No matter your candidates of choice, please take time to exercise your right as an American citizen and vote!

We often get so lost in the television ads and rigors of the campaigns that we forget just how precious this right is to us. According to the best statistics available, an estimated 1,341,756 American soldiers have given their lives in the of duty in wars and military conflicts since the days of the American Revolution. By voting, we honor each and every one of them even though many of their names have been long forgotten.

Cheaha State Park and Mt. Cheaha, Alabama

The photograph at right was taken from the highest point in Alabama, the top of Mt. Cheaha.

Now the site of Cheaha State Park, the mountain offers visitors a fascinating combination of scenic views, historic sites and natural wonders.

Most experts believe that Hernando de Soto's expedition marched within sight of the mountain, passing through the rich valleys below on its way down from the mountains to the bloody Battle of Mabila near the Gulf Coast. The 16th century soldiers raided Native American villages in the area for slaves and food.

In later times, the Mt. Cheaha area was part of the Creek Nation. The name, in fact, is thought to orginate from the Muskogee word "Chaha" which translates, roughly, to "high place." An important battle was fought at nearby Talladega during the Creek War of 1813-1814 and Andrew Jackson reported that Creek warriors fled into the mountains following the engagement.

Cheaha State Park itself was created in 1933 as a works project during the Great Depression. Numerous structures and trails built by Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) workers can still be found in the park, along with a modern hotel, chalets, restaurant and more.

If you would like to learn more about this beautiful and historic state park, one of the true jewels of the Alabama State Park system, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/cheaha1.

Cheaha State Park, Alabama - New Pages Online!

We have launched our new pages for Alabama's phenomenal Cheaha State Park!

Located on Mt. Cheaha, the park preserves beautiful mountain scenery and is the location of the highest point in Alabama.

We'll talk a closer look at some key points of interest in and around the park over the coming days. Until then, you can learn more about this beautiful and historic park by visiting our new Cheaha State Park and Talladega National Forest pages at http://www.exploresouthernhistory.com/.

Just follow the link and look for the Cheaha State Park heading.

Two-Toed Tom - The Alligator Monster of Florida and Alabama

Scotland has its Loch Ness Monster, but deep in the swamps along the border between Alabama and Florida can be heard stories of a water monster of a different sort.

Said to be a demon-possessed alligator that some estimate to be up to 24-feet long, Two-Toed Tom is the focus of numerous legends and tall tales. His name originates from the claim that he lost all but two toes on one foot to a bear trap.

The monster's story originates in Alabama, where University of Alabama professor Carl Carmer recorded tales about Two-Two in his book, Stars Fell on Alabama.

Following a dynamite attack that he avenged by killing a young girl, Tom supposedly made his way across the border into Northwest Florida. There, in the swamps of the Choctawhatchee River and Holmes Creek, he once again appeared. Some believe he lurks there to this day, particularly in the areas of Sand Hammock Lake in Holmes County and Boynton Island on the Choctawhatchee River.

If you would like to read the story of Two-Toed Tom, the infamous alligator monster of Alabama and Florida, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/alligator2.

A Murderer's Ghost in Macon, Georgia

Unlike their counterparts of today, 19th century American newspapers often carried reports or assigned reporters to investigate ghost sightings and similar hauntings. As a result, they provide an interesting insight to many stories of the time.

An example is the 1885 report of a haunted house in Macon, Georgia.

According to widespread reports that year, a house in the community was haunted by the ghost of a man that had killed his wife before taking his own life. Neighbors reported seeing and hearing unusual things in the house and one former friend of the man even went to investigate.

To read the story of the "Murderer's Ghost of Macon, Georgia," please visit: www.exploresouthernhistory.com/maconghost.

The Shooting Star Ghost of Georgetown, South Carolina

One of the strangest Southern ghost stories is that of the "Shooting Star" ghost of Georgetown, South Carolina.

This spectre appeared repeatedly during the decades following the Civil War and was covered by newspapers around the South.

The ghost was believed to have been that of a slave that killed his "master" during the closing years of the war. He paid for this act with his life and, for years after, reappeared and disappeared rapidly in the area. These quick appearances gave him the name of the "shooting star ghost."

If you would like to read an early newspaper account of the "Shooting Star" ghost, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/shootingstarghostsc. Please be aware that some of the language in the article does not fit with modern standards.

The Bell Witch appears in Alabama

The Bell Witch legend is one of the South's best known hauntings, but few people realize that there also have been reports that the witch was active in both Alabama and Mississippi as well as Tennessee.

The alleged Alabama sighting took place in Lauderdale County in 1912 and involved a strange dog-like animal similar to the one reported in the original Tennessee accounts of the Bell Witch haunting.

The incident was reported in Alabama newspapers that year and attracted considerable attention.

To read the original coverage of the Alabama "Bell Witch" sightings, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/bellwitch2.

The Plowing Ghost of Fernandina, Florida

One of the most unusual ghost stories to appear in 19th century newspapers around the country is that of the Plowing Ghost of Fernandina, Florida.

The ghost was first noticed by a farmer as he looked out the window of his home while sitting up with a sick child. To his surprise, the mysterious figure of a man could be seen plowing a nearby field in the gloom of the night. Although the night was dark, the figures of the man and his horse were strangely illuminated.

The man sent his son out to investigate, only to watch in shock as the boy walked directly through the strange apparition without seeing it.

The story soon became well known throughout the area and was covered by newspapers throughout the country.

If you would like to read more about Fernandina's Plowing Ghost, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/plowingghostofflorida.

Watch for Ghost Stories throughout the day on Halloween!

Beginning in the morning, I will post a series of actual 19th century newspaper reports on ghost sightings from around the South. Watch for these throughout the day, as I will continue to post them into the evening Halloween night.

Southern Ghosts Part Twelve - The Bell Witch, Tennessee

The marker at right tells the story of what is probably America's best known haunting, the Bell Witch incident.

Strikingly similar to the much better documented Edgefield Ghost in South Carolina, the Bell Witch was the name given by residents in the Adams, Tennessee, area to a series of bizarre events that supposedly happened in the area beginning in 1817.

The manifestations targeted the family of John Bell, a farmer and prominent settler that moved to the area from North Carolina. The "witching" primarily focused on Bell and his daughter Elizabeth or "Betsy," then a teenager.

According to legend and the memories of a family member written down long after the fact, the haunting began with mysterious noises and sightings of a strange dog-like creature and grew over time to completely disrupt life in the Bell home. Numerous people claimed to have experienced the events and one legend even holds that Andrew Jackson went up from Nashville to investigate, although his personal papers mention nothing of it.

According to the legend, family members and neighbors finally concluded that the haunting came from the spells of an angry witch and much speculation revolved around another neighbor. There is no evidence, of course, that she was actually involved.

The haunting climaxed with the mysterious death of John Bell. It was determined that he had swallowed poison and family members were convinced that it was placed in the house by the witch. It has been claimed that this was the only incident of a spirit killing a human being in U.S. history, but there were other similar allegations in other locations during the same era.

In modern terms, the Bell Witch haunting could best be described as a "poltergeist event." These are usually associated with the presence of an adolescent in the house and many believe they are pyschic, not spiritual. Others, of course, don't believe in them at all.

Whether you believe in the legend or not, the Bell Witch story is an important part of Southern history and folklore. It is a particularly important part of the culture of Tennessee and, curiously, later carried over into other states. More on that in the next post.

If you are interested in reading more about the Bell Witch haunting from a historical perspective, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/bellwitch1.

Southern Ghosts Part Eleven - Petit Jean's Ghost, Arkansas

One of the most cherished and beloved legends in the South is the story of Petit Jean in Arkansas.

As the story goes Petit Jean was a young French girl. Because she was small in size or petite, she was called Petit Jean by those who knew her.

Her lover came to America on a voyage of exploration during the 1700s, when Arkansas was a French possession and, rather than be left behind, she disguised herself as a cabin boy so she could follow him across the Atlantic.

Her identity was discovered and she accompanied her love on an expedition up the Arkansas River, then an important route in the French fur trade. As the explorers were camped beneath what is now Petit Jean Mountain and visiting with the inhabitants of a local Native American village, Petit Jean mysteriously sickened and died. The saddened villagers carried her to the top of the mountain and buried her in a natural rock garden facing the rising sun.

Her traditional grave can still be seen today, high atop the mountain. Now surrounded by an iron fence, the low mound of earth is in the center of large rock formations near the overlook on the east side of the mountain.

Long-standing tradition in the area holds that the young girl's restless ghost still roams the area around her grave. People have reported seeing the strange figure of a sad young woman on the mountaintop and others claim to have seen mysterious lights in the area of the grave.

To learn more about the story of Petit Jean's ghost and to see photos of Petit Jean Mountain, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/petitjean1.

Southern Ghosts Part Ten - The Edgefield Ghost, South Carolina

One of the most fascinating ghost stories in American history developed in Edgefield, South Carolina, in 1829 and was widely reported in U.S. newspapers of that year.

The following is the initial report from the Edgefield Courier newspaper of July 11, 1829:

A public curiosity has been greatly excited, and many tales more or less true, have gone out, concerning the mysterious and invisible being, that has been heard at Mr. Isaac Burnett's, in this District, for some time, it seems proper that the Public should be in possession of the facts relative to this extraordinary circumstance. The voice was first heard in October last, imitating various noises, such as that of th espinning wheel, reel ducks, hens, & c. It was first heard by Mr. Burnett, about twenty yards from the house, which led him to suppose it was some of the neighbor's children, hiding in the weeds and trying to frighten his children. It was afterwards heard in the loft of the house and Mr. B. supposing it to be a bird, sent a boy up to drive it out, but nothing could be seen. It thus continued to perplex the minds of the family for some time, until, at length, one of the children said he believed that thing could talk, and commenced asking questions, which it answered by whistling, pretty much like a Parrot. This circumstance getting out, many persons came to hear it. Mr. John Shepherd, a...worthy citizen, who lives in the neighborhood, conversed with it in presence of a nuber of witnesses. To ascertain the extent of its knowledge, he asked it various questions about most persons in the neighborhood and their circumstances which it answered correctly. It told his name and the number of children he had; also, the names of most of the persons present. He asked what it came there for. It replied, "Because it had no other place to go." It was asked if it came to do the family harm, it said no - it loved the family. It was asked finally if it loved Jesus Christ, to which it made no reply, nor answered any more question, which Mr. Shepherd asked. The evening after, it answered others, but would not answer him. For the first three months it was heard only once a month....

The Edgefield ghost continued to draw considerable attention in newspapers through 1829 and 1830, but coverage of the strange spirit finally diminished. Accounts indicate, however, that numerous people heard and conversed with it in 1829 and that it was sometimes heard whistling "Yankee Doodle."

Southern Ghosts Part Nine - Fayetteville, Arkansas

This photograph was taken in the fall of 2006 at the Confederate Cemetery in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Notice the strange anomaly in the right hand side of the photograph.

The cemetery looks out over the scene of the Battle of Fayetteville, a Civil War engagement fought for control of the city on April 18, 1863.

The fighting surged through the valley visible at the top of the photograph and many of the Confederate dead were buried here on the slope of East Mountain. Around 20 Confederates were killed in the battle.

The Confederate Cemetery is noted locally for strange photographs like this one and some have claimed to see unusual lights along the ridge after dark. Of a number of pictures taken on this particular day, this was the only one to show anything unusual.

If you would like to learn more about the Battle of Fayetteville, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/battleoffayetteville.

Southern Ghosts Part Eight - Bellamy Bridge, Florida

The sad story of the Ghost of Bellamy Bridge is one of Florida's best known tales of the supernatural.

The legend revolves around an old iron bridge that spans the Chipola River a few miles north of Marianna. Nearby is the lonely grave of Elizabeth Jane Bellamy, a young woman that died during the antebellum era in Florida.

Although legend holds that she died in a tragic wedding night fire, the true facts are that Bellamy died of severe fever along with her 18 month old child Alexander. Both are buried in an overgrown cemetery near today's Bellamy Bridge.

Tradition holds that the ghostly image of the young woman can be seen moving along the banks of the river in the area around the bridge. The photograph above, taken at Bellamy Bridge during winter months, shows an unusual "mist" in the lower right hand corner. Of more than 100 images taken that day, it was the only one that showed anything unusual.

If you would like to learn more about this favorite Florida ghost story, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/bellamybridge.

Southern Ghosts Part Seven - St. Simons Lighthouse, Georgia

One of the most beautiful lighthouses to be found anywhere, the St. Simons Lighthouse towers over the Atlantic Coast of Georgia.

Located on St. Simons Island, the old tower stands on the site of earlier British and Confederate forts and has served as an important landmark for ships sailing into the harbor for more than a century.

St. Simons Light is also haunted by stories of a restless spirit. Most story tellers agree that the ghost is that of Frederick Osborne, onetime keeper of the light.

The ghost legend has its origin in 1880, when Osborne and his assistant, John Stephens, became embroiled in an argument. The following brief account appeared in the Georgia Weekly Telegraph newspaper on March 12, 1880:

Mr. Osburn, keeper of the lighthouse on St. Simons' Island, was seriously shot by Mr. John Stephens, his assistant, for talking in a disrespectful manner to his wife.

Osborne died from his wounds and Stephens was arrested and charged with murder, but was acquitted following a trial.

Reports of a ghost at the lighthouse originated almost immediately. By 1907, the story of the haunted lighthouse and its ghostly keeper was being printed in newspapers across the country.

An eyewitness that year described one of the spirit's appearances. Apparently, prior to his death, Osborne had indicated that if he was ever needed to assist with the works of the lighthouse, all his assistants had to do was call. One of them jokingly asked, "What if you are dead?" to which he responded, "Well, call anyway!"

According to the newspaper accounts, the new keeper of the lighthouse had gone to shore and his wife began having difficulty with the mechanism and, remembering Osborne's words, said "Well, come and fix it now!" To the surprise of the woman, the spirit of the old keeper appeared:

There was a clink and rattle, and looking up Mrs. C---- saw the distinct figure of the French Canadian bending over the works. Overcome by the reaction, she fainted, and when she regained consciousness the steady "click, click," of the works assured her all was well with the light. The man had disappeared.... (From the Idaho Statesman, September 8, 1907)

In the years since, many people have reported seeing the ghostly figure of Osborne in and around the lighthouse. Strange sounds of footsteps going up and down the spiral staircase have also been reported.

The lighthouse today is beautiful restored and can be visited during regular hours. If you would like to read more, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/gastsimons.

Southern Ghosts Part Six - Poison Spring, Arkansas

This strange glowing light was photographed through the trees at Poison Spring Battlefield State Park near Camden, Arkansas, late in the afternoon of a stormy summer day.

The light could be seen from the parking lot at the battlefield and seemed to be coming from down in the ravine formed by Poison Spring Branch. Upon entering the woods along the nature trail, however, it could not be found.

The photograph also shows several small white "orbs" that I think are light effects caused by the weather conditions that day. What is interesting, though, is that one of these appears over the yellowish light itself, indicating that it had definite depth as opposed to being a camera effect.

Poison Spring was the site of a dramatic Confederate victory during the Civil War. Southern troops overwhelmed a Union wagon train here during the Red River Campaign of 1864. Eyewitnesses claimed that Southern soldiers shot and killed Union soldiers after the battle.

Over the years, stories have been told of unusual things such as strange lights or misty figures being seen in the battlefield area. As is often the case with battlefields, there are stories that the dead linger at Poison Spring.

If you would like to read more about the Battle of Poison Spring and see additional "ghost" pictures, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/poisonspring.

Southern Ghosts Part Five - Warden Castle in St. Augustine, Florida

This photograph shows several "orbs" photographed in Warden Castle (now Ripley's Believe It or Not!) in St. Augustine, Florida.

Personally, I think that most orbs are just light effects caused by camera flashes interacting with dust or other light sources, but some people believe they are indicative of supernatural activity.

The castle was built in 1887 by William G. Warden, a business partner of John D. Rockefeller and Florida's famed railroad builder, Henry Flagler. The Warden family used the unique structure as a winter home until the 1930s.

In 1941 it was remodeled as a hotel and a tragic fire there claimed lives. It is said that the spirits of the unfortunate victims still haunt the old structure. People report seeing strange figures in the old Moorish building late at night and tourists often photograph "orbs" and unusual streaks of light there.

Now fully renovated, Warden Castle is the home to Ripley's Believe It or Not! In fact, this was the nation's first Ripley's museum, a distinction that makes it something of a pop culture icon.

In true Ripley's style, those interested in Warden Castle's "ghostly" occupants can take part in nightly "Ghost Train" tours that give them a chance to learn some tales of St. Augustine ghosts and walk through the spooky old structure and museum after dark.

To learn more about Castle Warden, please visit: www.exploresouthernhistory.com/wardencastle.

Southern Ghosts Part Four - Rich Mountain, Arkansas

Ghost stories often provide a glimpse into real events from the distant past. This is the case with the legend of the Ghost of Rich Mountain in Arkansas.

Rich Mountain is located deep in the Ouachita Mountains of western Arkansas. Although the area is now part of the Ouachita National Forest, it was once a region of isolated settlements where early pioneers clung to existence on the rocky slopes of the mountains.

On the top of the mountain, just off the Talimena Scenic Drive, is the Rich Mountain Pioneer Cemetery. Established at around the time of the Civil War by early settlers, it remained in use well into the 20th century. It is a mysterious place, even on sunny summer days. Cracked and broken tombstones surrounded by a split rail fence set off the drive in the woods are the focus of numerous stories of the early mountain settlers. Perhaps the most moving is the tale of the Ghost of Rich Mountain.

According to the story, a teenage girl was home with her mother and several younger children on a freezing night during the Civil War. The mother was severely ill with a fever, so the daughter went out with a bucket to obtain water from a nearby spring. It was late at night and icy winds were blowing across the mountain. Before she could return, however, she was confronted by wolves and took refuge in a tree. She froze to death there and was not found until the next day.

Legend holds that mysterious lights can be seen at night in the area of the Rich Mountain cemetery. The explanation usually given is that the strange light is given off by the ghost of the young girl, still trapped in a tree on the mountain more than 140 years after the Civil War.

If you would like to read more about the Rich Mountain Pioneer Cemetery, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/richmountainghost.

Southern Ghosts Part Three - Big Cedar, Missouri

On the outskirts of the modern tourist mecca of Branson, the Big Cedar Resort preserves several historic structures as part of the wilderness themed complex.

Among these is the Worman House (seen here).

Built by Harry Worman, an executive with the Frisco Railroad and one of two prominent businessmen that bought the Big Cedar Valley during the 1920s, the house is now a noteworthy restaurant.

It is difficult to imagine that the beautiful scenery could have been a miserable location for anyone, but according to legend the Big Cedar Valley felt more like a prison than a vacation spot for Worman's young wife, Dorothy. Fond of the society and parties, she feld out of place and lonely in the house at Big Cedar and, as the story goes, ran away and died at an early age.

Employees and guests, though, often see an unusual shadowy figure walking the grounds of the resort at night, prompting the growth of a legend that Dorothy Worman haunts the place that once caused such misery in her life.

To learn more about Big Cedar Resort and its history, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/branson1 and follow the link for Big Cedar Resort.

Southern Ghosts Part Two - The Crescent Hotel, Arkansas

It is said to the "America's Most Haunted Hotel."

Rising from a mountaintop in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, this beautiful historic inn is well worth a visit just for its unique history and spectacular views. But if you enjoy a good ghost story, then it is definitely for you.

Construction on the Crescent Hotel began in 1886 and it operated as a hotel for its first 15 years, catering to visitors that came from across the nation to "take the waters" of the springs and spas of Eureka Springs. Many believed the natural mineral water held curative powers and the Crescent provided them a place to stay in style while they visited the resort community.

Hard times fell on the community, though, and the Crescent fell into disrepair. Then came the era from which most of the ghost stories originate. The Crescent was acquired by Norman Baker or, as he liked to term himself, "Dr. Norman Baker."

Baker was a former mind reader that also claimed to have developed a cancer cure. He set up shop in the Crescent Hotel, inviting patients across the country to come and partake of his "cure." Many died and the hotel became notorious for the strange goings on there. Baker was ultimately indicted for mail fraud and spend many years in Federal prison before retiring to Florida.

According to local legend, though, many of his patients still linger in the halls and rooms of the Crescent Hotel. The hotel is notorious for its ghost sightings and has been the focus of numerous investigations, some of which have produced video and photographs of strange figures and other unusual things.

To learn more about the Crescent Hotel and Eureka Springs in general, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/eurekaindex.

Southern Ghosts Part One - St. Augustine Lighthouse, Florida

One of Florida's best known ghost stories swirls around the spectacular tower of the St. Augustine Lighthouse in Florida.

For decades people have claimed to hear and see strange things in the tower. Most of the stories revolve around an unfortunate accident that happened while the tower was being built in 1873.

A cable car of sorts was rigged up to carry construction material from the beach up to the lighthouse site and the children of the construction superintendent and their friends liked to ride the cart back and forth. On July 10, 1873, however, something went very wrong and three of the children died in an unfortunate accident.

It is said that their voices, footsteps and forms can be seen inside the tower. The SciFi Channel television show "Ghost Hunters" visited the tower and recorded several unusual "figures" inside the lighthouse, making the St. Augustine Lighthouse one of the South's best known "haunted locations."

You can learn more about the lighthouse by visiting: www.exploresouthernhistory.com/staugustinelighthouse.

Ghosts of the South! - Coming in October

Throughout the month of October, we will explore some of the South's most intriguing ghost stories!

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, stories about them are an important part of the culture of the American South.

They remind us of the days before radio and television when our ancestors spent fall and winter evenings telling stories by firelight. In addition, many such tales originate from true historical events and were a way that the generations before us preserved the memory of important times and people.

Our series will start on October 11th, so be sure to check in daily throughout the month for new stores and places.

Battle of Marianna, Florida Tours set for next Saturday...

If you are interested in learning more about one of the most significant Civil War actions in Florida, the Blue Springs Society of the Children of the American Revolution will offer a unique opportunity to do so next Saturday (September 27th).

The day will mark the 144th anniversary of the Battle of Marianna, Florida, and the C.A.R. will be hosting two guided tours of the Marianna battlefield.

The tours will begin at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. at the historic Russ House (Jackson County Chamber of Commerce) on West Lafayette Street (U.S. 90 West) in Marianna. The cost to participate is $5 for individuals over 12. Children 12 and under can take the tour for free.

Each of the tours will last 60-90 minutes and will give participants a chance to visit some of the key points associated with the fighting including St. Luke's Episcopal Church.

If you would like to learn more about the Battle of Marianna, please visit www.battleofmarianna.net or consider my book, The Battle of Marianna, Florida. You can click here for ordering information.

Submarine Smuggling not a new concept...

If you haven't seen it yet, CNN reported this week that smugglers have turned to submarines in an effort to sneak drugs across the Gulf of Mexico and into the United States.

As novel as it might sound, this is not exactly a new idea. In true Southern tradition, moonshiners on the Mississippi River once used a homemade submarine to slip illegal whiskey to shore from a hidden island distillery. Powered by a Model T Ford engine, the little one man sub carried moonshine from Davis Island to shore during the early days of prohibition.

The Mississippi Moonshine Running Submarine is now a permanent exhibit at one of my favorite historic sites, Grand Gulf Military Monument near Port Gibson, Mississippi. The site of an important battle during the Civil War's Vicksburg Campaign, Grand Gulf was a significant community on the Mississippi River during antebellum times.

Floods and disease drove away most of the inhabitants, however, and most of what remained of the town was destroyed during the war. The park today preserves a fascinating array of historic sites and artifacts, including earthwork forts and entrenchments, historic structures... and the moonshine running submarine!

You can learn more about Grand Gulf Military Monument and its little known submarine by visiting www.exploresouthernhistory.com/grandgulf1.

Special Series on the 1864 Raid on Marianna, Florida

If you are interested in the Civil War in the Deep South, you might enjoy a special series that is starting today at Civil War Florida.

The series provides a day-by-day telling of the story of the 1864 Union Raid on Marianna, Florida. The deepest penetration of Florida by Federal troops during the entire Civil War, this raid was longer than Sherman's March to the Sea and culminated at the small but bloody Battle of Marianna on September 27, 1864.

The first movements of the raid began 144 years ago today when advance troops crossed Pensacola Bay to establish a landing point for the main body of Brig. Gen. Alexander Asboth's Union command.

To learn more, check in daily for the latest updates at http://civilwarflorida.blogspot.com.

Poison Spring Series at Civil War Arkansas

If you are interested in learning more about one of the most dramatic encounters of the Civil War west of the Mississippi, you might want to check out a series now underway on our sister site, http://civilwararkansas.blogspot.com.

The series explores the history of the Battle of Poison Spring, Arkansas, a major encounter of the 1864 Red River Campaign.

This Confederate victory started the process of ending the Arkansas phase of the campaign and was the first of a series of critical battles that resulted in the retreat of the Union troops back to Little Rock.

The battle was significant because of its role in ending the campaign and is also controversial because of allegations that Confederate Choctaw and Chickasaw troops murdered Union black soldiers from the 1st Kansas Colored Infantry as the fighting degenerated into a rout.

If you would like to follow along with this series and learn more about this fascinating battle, please visit http://civilwararkansas.blogspot.com. You can also learn more about the Battle of Poison Spring by visiting www.exploresouthernhistory.com/poisonspring.

New Book is now Available in Hardcover and Paperback

I am pleased to let you know that my latest book - The History of Jackson County, Florida: Volume One - has officially been released.

If you pre-ordered a copy, your book should arrive no later than the end of next week. If you are expecting a copy and it hasn't arrived by then, please let me know so I can check on it for you.

If you are interested in ordering a copy, I recommend you order directly from the printer for fastest service. I'll include details at the bottom of this post.

This book is the first in a three volume series on the history of Jackson County, Florida. Although the book is technically a county history, Jackson County was so closely tied to major events in the early history of Florida and the Deep South that I think you will find it of interest far beyond the borders of the county.

Volume One covers the years from 1674-1860 and covers the Spanish mission era, American Revolution, War of 1812, First Seminole War, early settlements, Second Seminole War, Trail of Tears and even includes an in-depth study of Jackson County's favorite ghost story as well as the truth behind the legend of the county's lost pirate treasure.

The book is large (well over 300 pages) and features maps, photographs and a detailed appendices that includes the county's 19th century Native American census. Paperback copies are $24.95 and hardcover copies are $29.95. Profits from the book are being donated to the Daughters of the American Revolution to assist in developing a new historic marker program for Jackson County.

Please click here for information on ordering a paperback copy of the book for $24.95.

Please click here for information on ordering a hardcover copy of the book for $29.95.

Battle of Poison Spring pages now online!

One of the bloodiest and most startling events of the Civil War's Red River Campaign was the Battle of Poison Spring, Arkansas.

Confederate forces under Generals Samuel B. Maxey and John Marmaduke attacked a massive Union supply train at Poison Spring, about ten miles west of Camden, Arkansas, on April 18, 1864. By the time the battle was over, more than 200 Union soldiers were dead or missing and 170 wagons and 1,200 mules had been seized by the Confederates.

There were allegations that black Union soldiers were murdered following the battle, primarily by Confederate soldiers from the Choctaw Nation. The Choctaw warriors were irate at the Federals over damage done to their homes and families by these same Union troops over the previous year. Hundreds of Choctaw families had been left homeless by Union operations in the Indian Territory of present-day Oklahoma, and legend holds that the warriors exacted their revenge when Federal troops broke and retreated at Poison Spring.

The Battle of Poison Spring is memorialized today by Poison Spring State Park in Arkansas. If you would like to learn more about this historic Civil War battle west of the Mississippi, please visit our new Poison Spring pages at www.exploresouthernhistory.com/poisonspring.

Hurricane Gustav moving through Louisiana

Hurricane Gustav came ashore in Louisiana this morning. Fortunately it weakened some and was a Category 2 storm at landfall. So far it looks like the levees are holding in New Orleans and damage to the city is minimal.

Damage and flooding is taking place in other areas around southern Louisiana and there was video on television of flooding in Grand Isle.

I've been trying to keep track of the status of historic sites in the region while also praying for the best for the residents of Louisiana. So far, Mayor Ray Nagin of New Orleans has reported that a fire broke out in an antebellum house in the city but was contained by firefighters. I do not know the extent of the damage.

As I see more on the status of historic sites in the area, I'll keep you informed.

Hurricane expected to Strike on Monday

Hurricane Gustav is now moving northwest across the Gulf of Mexico at 15 miles per hour and is currently forecast to strike the Louisiana coastline sometime tomorrow.

This storm is extremely dangerous and the entire New Orleans metro area is now under a mandatory evacuation.

If you are one of the millions of people that have been forced to evacuate your home, you can monitor the situation in Louisiana online at http://www.wwl.com/. Just as they did during Katrina, they are doing a phenomenal job of covering the storm and providing emergency information.

If you are planning to be traveling in the South, please exercise extreme caution and monitor weather reports on the progress of this storm carefully. If there is anything you can do to help evacuees in your community, please do so. Also please keep the disaster relief fund at the American Red Cross in mind.

Hurricane Gustav threatening Gulf Coast

If you will be traveling anywhere on the Gulf Coast over the next few days, please exercise caution and stay up to date on the latest weather reports. You should also check with your hotel to make sure there is availability.

More than 1,000,000 people have already been evacuated from the New Orleans area as Hurricane Gustav begins its move north into the Gulf of Mexico.

The storm is a major hurricane and is currently following a track that could bring it to land near Grand Isle, Louisiana on Monday. This would move the eye of the storm just west of New Orleans, an extremely serious situation for the city because the most severe part of tropical systems is usually in the area east of the eye.

This storm is considered to be extremely dangerous and hurricanes can sometimes be very unpredictable, so if you are traveling anywhere from Florida around to Texas, please stay up to date on weather conditions. Also please keep the people in the path of this storm in your prayers and do what you can to help in its aftermath.

Tropical Storm Fay Update

Tropical Storm Fay continues to cause major problems in the South. The storm is now having a major impact on southern Alabama and Georgia as well as much of the state of Florida.

If you are planning to travel South this weekend, please stay up to date on the latest weather conditions. Not only are flights being impacted, but there is widespread flooding across Florida and tornado activity has been reported throughout the storm area. Some areas in the vicinity of Tallahassee have reported 22 inches of rain so far.

The Jackson County Times newspaper in Marianna, Florida provides good updates for that area and links to video updates and an array of other information on the storm, so please visit them if you would like to keep up with things. Just click here to visit their site.

Update: Florida State Park Closings due to Tropical Storm Fay

Here is the latest information on state park closings in Florida due to severe weather conditions from Tropical Storm Fay. The storm continues to cause significant difficulties, so please consult the latest information on weather conditions if you plan to travel in Florida this week.

You can view current video updates on the storm at www.jacksoncountytimes.net.

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today announced the closure and re-opening of several state recreation areas, preserves and district offices on Thursday, August 21. Closed facilities will remain closed until further notice due to imminent weather conditions.

Regulatory District Office Closed (1)

DEP Northeast District Office
7825 Baymeadows Way, Suite B200
Jacksonville, Florida 32256

Regulatory District Office Re-opening (1)

DEP Southeast District Branch Office
1801 SE Hilmoor Drive, Suite C-204
Port St. Lucie, Florida 34952

State Parks Re-opening (8)

Anastasia State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
1340-A State Road A1A South
St. Augustine, Florida 32080

Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
905 Shorewinds Drive
Ft. Pierce, Florida 34949

Faver-Dykes State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
1000 Faver-Dykes Road
St. Augustine, Florida 32086

Fort Clinch State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
2601 Atlantic Avenue
Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034

Talbot Island State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
12157 Heckscher Drive
Jacksonville, Florida 32226

Collier-Seminole State Park
20200 E. Tamiami Trail
Naples, Florida 34114

Highlands Hammock State Park
5931 Hammock Road
Sebring, Florida 33872

Long Key State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
67400 Overseas Highway
Long Key, Florida 33001

State Park Closures (5)
(Includes 2 New Closures *)

Gamble Rogers State Park
3100 S. State Road A1A
Flagler Beach, Florida 32136

Kissimmee Prairie
33104 N.W. 192nd Avenue
Okeechobee, Florida 34972

Tomoka State Park
2099 North Beach Street
Ormond Beach, Florida 32174

*Bulow Creek State Park
3351 Old Dixie Highway
Ormond Beach, Florida 32174

*Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park
County Road 2001
Flagler Beach, Florida

Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas (CAMA) Re-opening (1)

Southeast Aquatic Preserves Office
3300 Lewis Street
Ft. Pierce, Florida 34981

Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas (CAMA) Closures (3)
(Includes 1 New Closure *)

*Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve
and Environmental Learning Center
505 Guana River Road
Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida 32082

East Central Florida Aquatic Preserves
3783 North Indian River Drive
Cocoa, Florida 32926

Northeast Aquatic Preserves Office
13802 Pumpkin Hill Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32226

Office of Greenways and Trails (OGT) Closures (5)
(Includes 2 Re-Closures *)

Cross Florida Greenway
Buckman Lock Visitor Center
200 Buckman Lock Road
Palatka, Florida 32177

Cross Florida Greenway
Rodman Campground
410 Rodman Road
Palatka, Florida 32177

Cross Florida Greenway
Santos Campground
3080 SE 80th Street
Ocala, Florida 34491

*Cross Florida Greenway
Sharpes Ferry Office
8282 SE Hwy 314
Ocala, Florida 34470

*Van Fleet State Trail Office
7500 Bay Lake Road
Groveland, Florida 34736

For additional information, visit www.dep.state.fl.us or www.floridadisaster.org.

Florida State Parks Update

Here is the latest information on State Park closings in Florida due to Tropical Storm Fay. The storm continues to cause major issues for parts of the state, so please make sure to consult the latest weather information if you have a Florida vacation planned.

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TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today announced the closure and re-opening of several state recreation areas, preserves and district offices on Wednesday, August 20. Closed facilities will remain closed until further notice due to imminent weather conditions.

Regulatory District Offices Closed (2):

DEP Northeast District Office
7825 Baymeadows Way, Suite B200
Jacksonville, Florida 32256

DEP Southeast District Branch Office
1801 SE Hilmoor Dr., Suite C-204
Port St. Lucie, Florida 34952

State Parks Re-opening (35):

Alafia River State Park
14326 South County Road 39
Lithia, Florida 33547

Cayo Costa State Park
Located directly south of Boca Grande
Boca Grande, Florida 33921

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park
12301 Burnt Store Road
Punta Gorda, Florida 33955

Collier-Seminole State Park – Day Use Only
20200 E. Tamiami Trail
Naples, Florida 34114

Delnor Wiggins State Park
11135 Gulf Shores Drive
Naples, Florida 34108

Don Pedro Island State Park
Boating location is Nautical Waterproof Chart #25
Intercoastal Waterway sign guides visitors to the park
Boca Grande, Florida 33821

Estero Bay Preserve State Park
Located near Estero between Ft. Myers and Naples
Estero, Florida 33928

Fakahatchee Strand State Park
137 Coastline Drive
Copeland, Florida

Gasparilla Island State Park
880 Belcher Road
Boca Grande, Florida 33821

Hillsborough River State Park
15402 US 301 N
Thonotosassa, Florida 33592

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
3109 E. Sunrise Blvd
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Koreshan State Park
U.S. 41 at Corkscrew Road
Estero, Florida 33928

Lake Manatee State Park
20007 SR 64
Bradenton, Florida 34202

Little Manatee River State Park
215 Lightfoot Road
Wimauma, Florida 33598

Lovers Key State Park
8700 Estero Blvd.
Ft. Myers Beach, Florida 33931

Mound Key State Park
Located several miles by boat from Lovers Key State Park or Koreshan State Park
Estero, Florida 33928

Myakka River State Park
13208 State Road 72
Sarasota, Florida 34241

Oscar Scherer State Park
1843 S. Tamiami Trail
Osprey, Florida 34229

Paynes Creek State Park
888 Lake Branch Road
Bowling Green, Florida 33834

Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
4905 34th Street South, #5000
St. Petersburg, Florida 33711

Stump Pass Beach State Park
Located at the end of Manasota Key off I-75, exit 191
Englewood, Florida

Atlantic Ridge State Park
16450 SE Federal Highway
Hobe Sound, Florida 33455

Avalon State Park
905 Shorewinds Drive
Ft. Pierce, Florida 34949

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
1200 S. Crandon Blvd.
Key Biscayne, Florida 33149

Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
County Road 905
Key Largo, Florida 33037

Indian Key Historic State Park
U.S. 1 Mile Marker 85.5
Islamorada, Florida 33036

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
10900 State Road 703 A1A
North Palm Beach, Florida 33408

John U. Lloyd Beach State Park
6503 N. Ocean Drive
Dania Beach, Florida 33004

Jonathan Dickinson State Park – River Campground Closed
16450 SE Federal Hwy.
Hobe Sound, Florida 33455

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
U.S. 1 Mile Marker 85.5
Islamorada, Florida 33036

Oleta River State Park
3400 NE 163rd Street
N. Miami, Florida 33160

Seabranch Preserve State Park
State Road A1A near the VFW parking lot
Stuart, Florida 34997

St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park
4810 SE Cove Rd.
Stuart, Florida 34997

The Barnacle Historic State Park
3485 Main Hwy.
Coconut, Grove, Florida 33133

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
U.S. 1 Mile Marker 85.5
Islamorada, Florida 33036

State Parks Closed (9):

Fort Clinch State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
2601 Atlantic Avenue
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

Talbot Island State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
12157 Heckscher Drive
Jacksonville, Florida 32226

Kissimmee Prairie State Park
33104 NW 192nd Avenue
Okeechobee, Florida 34972

Gamble Rogers State Park
3100 S. State Road A1A
Flagler Beach, Florida 32136

Tomoka State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
2099 North Beach Street
Ormond Beach, FL 32174

Faver-Dykes State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
1000 Faver-Dykes Road
St. Augustine, FL 32086

Anastasia State Park – Day Use Open; Campground is Closed
1340-A State Road A1A South
St. Augustine, FL 32080

Highlands Hammock State Park
5931 Hammock Road
Sebring, FL 33872

Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
905 Shorewinds Drive
Fort Pierce, FL 34949

Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas Closed (3):

East Central Florida Aquatic Preserves
3783 North Indian River Drive
Cocoa, FL 32926

Northeast Aquatic Preserves Office
13802 Pumpkin Hill Road
Jacksonville, FL 32226

Southeast Aquatic Preserves Office
3300 Lewis Street
Ft. Pierce, FL 34981

Greenways and Trails Re-opening (5):

Cross Florida Greenway
Sharpes Ferry Office
8282 SE Hwy 314
Ocala, Florida 34470

Cross Florida Greenway
Inglis Lock Office
20751 SE 90th Avenue
Inglis, Florida 34449

Withlacoochee State Trail Office
315 N Apopka
Inverness, Florida 34450

Nature Coast State Trail Office
22 SE 2nd Avenue
Chiefland, Florida 32693

Van Fleet State Trail Office
7500 Bay Lake Road
Groveland, Florida 34736

Greenways and Trails Closed (3):

Cross Florida Greenway
Buckman Lock Visitor Center
200 Buckman Lock Road
Palatka, Florida 32177

Cross Florida Greenway
Rodman Campground
410 Rodman Road
Palatka, Florida 32177

Cross Florida Greenway
Santos Campground
3080 SE 80th Street
Ocala, Florida 34491

For more information, visit www.dep.state.fl.us or www.floridadisaster.org.

Dozens of State Parks close in Florida due to Tropical Storm

I received the following notice this evening from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection announcing a number of park closes in the state due to Tropical Storm conditions.

Many of the areas are important historic sites, so please take note if you plan to be traveling in the Sunshine State over the next few days:

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today announced the closure of several state parks, preserves and district offices as of 5 p.m. until further notice due to imminent weather conditions.

Closed parks, preserves and offices include:

Regulatory District Offices (4):

South District Fort Myers Office
2295 Victoria Avenue
Ft. Myers, Florida 33901

South District Marathon Branch Office
2796 Overseas Highway, Suite 221
Marathon, Florida 33050

South District Sebring Satellite Office
2812 Kenilworth Blvd.
Sebring Florida 33870

Southwest District Office
13051 North Telecom Parkway
Temple Terrace, FL 33637-0926

State Parks Closed (41):

Bahia Honda State Park
36850 Overseas Hwy.
Big Pine Key, Florida 33043

Curry Hammock State Park
56200 Overseas Hwy.
Marathon, Florida 33050

Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
County Road 905
Key Largo, Florida 33037

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
300 Truman Annex
Key West, Florida 33041

Indian Key Historic State Park
U.S. 1 Mile Marker 85.5
Islamorada, Florida 33036

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
U.S. 1 Mile Marker 102.5
Key Largo, Florida 33037

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
U.S. 1 Mile Marker 85.5
Islamorada, Florida 33036

Long Key State Park
U.S. 1 Mile Marker 67.5
Long Key, Florida, 33001

San Pedro Underwater Archeological State Park
U.S. 1 Mile Marker 85.5
Islamorada, Florida 33036

Windly Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
U.S. 1 Mile Marker 85.5
Islamorada, Florida 33036

Honeymoon Island State Park
#1 Causeway Blvd
Dunedin, Florida 34698

Caladesi Island State Park
#1 Causeway Blvd
Dunedin, Florida 34698

Anclote Key State Park
#1 Causeway Blvd
Dunedin, Florida 34698

Egmont Key State Park
4905 34th Street S., #5000
Dunedin, Florida 34698

Cayo Costa State Park
880 Belcher Road
Boca Grande, Florida 33921

Oscar Scherer State Park
1843 S. Tamiami Trail
Osprey, Florida 34229

Fakahatchee State Park
137 Coastline Drive
Copeland, Florida

Delnor Wiggins State Park
11135 Gulf Shores Drive
Naples, Florida 34108

Lovers Key State Park
8700 Estero Blvd.
Ft. Myers Beach, Florida 33931

Koreshan State Park
3800 Corkscrew Road
Estero, Florida 33928

Mound Key State Park
3800 Corkscrew Road
Estero, Florida 33928

Little Manatee Rive State Park
215 Lightfoot Road
Wimauma, Florida 33598

Myakka River State Park
13208 State Road 72.
Sarasota, Florida 34241

Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
#1 Causeway Blvd.
Dunedin, Florida 34698

Terra Ceia Preserve State Park
3708 Patton Ave.
Ellenton, Florida 34222

Madira Bickel Mound State Park
3708 Patton Ave.
Ellenton, Florida 34222

Judah P. Benjamin State Park
3708 Patton Ave.
Ellenton, Florida 34222

Lake Manatee State Park
20007 SR 64
Bradenton, Florida 34202

Beker State Park
3708 Patton Ave.
Ellenton, Florida 34222

Stump Pass Beach State Park
880 Belcher Road
Boca Grande, Florida 33821

Don Pedro Island State Park
880 Belcher Road
Boca Grande, Florida 33821

Gasparilla Island State Park
880 Belcher Road
Boca Grande, Florida 33821

Collier-Seminole State Park
20200 E. Tamiami Trail
Naples, Florida 34114

Estero Bay Preserve State Park
3800 Corkscrew Road
Estero, Florida 33928

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
3109 E. Sunrise Blvd
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33304

John U. Lloyd Beach State Park
6503 N. Ocean Drive
Dania Beach, Florida 33004

Oleta River State Park
3400 NE 163rd Street
N. Miami, Florida 33160

The Barnacle Historic State Park
3485 Main Hwy.
Coconut, Grove, Florida 33133

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
1200 S. Crandon Blvd.
Key Biscayne, Florida 33149

St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park
4810 SE Cove Rd.
Stuart, Florida 34997

Jonathan Dickinson State Park- Campground Closed
16450 SE Federal Hwy.
Hobe Sound, Florida 33455

Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas (6):

Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve and Coral Reef Conservation Program:
1277 NE 79th Street Causeway
Miami, Florida 33138

Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves Office
12301 Burnt Store Road
Punta Gorda, Florida 33955

Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve
700-1 Fishermans Wharf
Ft. Myers Beach, Florida 33931

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
33 East Quay Road
Key West, FL 33040
and
95230 Overseas Hwy.
Key Largo, Florida 33037

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
300 Tower Road
Naples, Florida 34113

Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve Office
130 Terra Ceia Road
Terra Ceia, Florida 34250

For more information on state park closures, visit www.floridastateparks.org. For additional information, visit www.dep.state.fl.us or www.floridadisaster.org.