St. Augustine Celebrates its 250th Anniversary

ST. Augustine, Florida – As it gears up for a big milestone, St. Augustine is paying tribute to its legacy as the oldest continuously inhabited city in the continental U.S., established by Europeans. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez, this northeastern Florida city, affectionately termed the “ancient capital,” will mark its 461st anniversary this September.

While many are familiar with Menéndez and the myths surrounding the Fountain of Youth, St. Augustine’s significant contribution to American history often goes unnoticed.

Unearthing History

Recent archaeological efforts have unveiled remnants from the British colonial period, highlighting St. Augustine’s rich past. “Walking through the city, you can feel the history; it’s a reminder that this was once the foundation of America. If the Spanish had retained control, who knows how things would be,” Maria Alvarez of Historic Florida Milita shared.

In 1763, Britain, alongside Native American allies, seized Florida from Spain in the aftermath of the French and Indian War. “The dynamic changed with the British arrival,” said Margo Pope, the historical chair of the St. Augustine Women’s Exchange, located in what was once the residence of British Governor Patrick Tonin.

Historians note that Florida was divided into East and West Florida, often referred to as Colonial America’s obscure 14th and 15th colonies.

Insight into Colonial Dynamics

Alvarez further highlighted, “St. Augustine represents the 14th colony. East Florida was filled with loyalists supporting King George, while West Florida played host to patriots due to its proximity to Spanish territories.” Throughout the American Revolution, Florida remained a crucial loyalist stronghold and a military base for Britain.

During the war, numerous British supporters from neighboring Georgia and South Carolina sought refuge in Florida. Interestingly, some of the Founding Fathers, including three minor signers of the Declaration of Independence—Hayward, Middleton, and Rutledge—were imprisoned at Fort Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine for about four months.

St. Augustine City Walks plans to highlight these often-overlooked aspects of the city’s involvement in the Revolution through free walking tours offered every Saturday in July. These tours aim to educate visitors about the colonial era and the figures connected to stints in Florida.

Recovering Forgotten Narratives

The upcoming tours will guide participants through historic streets, revealing stories related to Florida’s loyalty to Britain, the imprisonment of Founding Fathers, and local rebellion. “It’s essential for everyone to grasp the importance of our history,” Pope noted with a chuckle.

Alvarez added her sense of pride, stating, “St. Augustine holds the honor of being first in many respects.” With America’s birthday just around the corner, there’s a shared desire among locals to ensure these narratives come to light. She pointed out that while places like Plymouth, Massachusetts, often claim historical milestones, this city has its own critical claims, like hosting the first Catholic Mass and Thanksgiving long before Jamestown or Plymouth Rock.

Interestingly, Fort Mawes, established in 1738, served as the first legally recognized free black settlement in the U.S. Although the original fort no longer stands, a replica was created and opened for public viewing in 2025. “There’s a vast amount of history that isn’t always reflected in textbooks,” Alvarez remarked.

Celebrations Ahead

With multiple events planned in St. Augustine to honor America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, the city will host the “Matanzas Fireworks” on the 4th of July. This will include free concerts, a fireworks display over the bay, and various family-friendly activities throughout the historic district.

Additionally, St. Augustine City Walks will offer free “St. Augustine and the Birth of America” tours on certain July dates, though reservations are necessary due to limited space.