Castillo de San Marcos

 Castillo de San Marcos

March 31st, 2022

the Castillo de San Marcos, which stands today as a national park, was once a place of safety for the early Spanish settlers of St. Augustine against pirates, and local Native American tribes. This long standing stone fortress stands testament to the nations early latino heritage, and to their cultural groups who stayed at the fort, either by choice, or by force.

Source link: https://www.nps.gov/casa/index.htm 

Interior Images: 

This first image, shows the coquina stone that the fort is built out of, Like much of Florida, St. Augustine is often flooded and under water. Without this durable stone, the city would have crumbled, and this 400 year old fort would be long gone. 

This image shows the watch tower located on top of the fort. Due to the building having several blind sports, these towers were a safe and effective way to ensure the the fort was always protected and secure from enemy attackers. 

Exterior Images: 

This image shows the beautiful stone that surrounds the outside of the fort.

This shows the outside of the building, and really give a clear view of just how slanted the walls of the fort are. 

Literary In Conversation:

Website

This fort is located in Ticonderoga New York, near Lake Champlain. Although this fort did not contribute to a win for America, it does show the dedication the American army had against the British during the battle of 1777. 

Website 

This landmark, located in St. Augustine, is dedicated to the Menorcan people, and religion (Catholicism)  they held so close to their hearts. The Menorcan people were mistreated in the Untied states, however were able to find refuge in St. Augustine, more specifically, in the Castillo de San Marcos. 

Literary In Conversation:

Ann Browning Masters - "Floridinos, Menorcans, Cattle-Whip Crackers"

Some Floridanos retuned to St. Augustine from Cuba, Spain, and other Spanish holdings, Menorcans remained in St. Augustine after the British Period ended. Intermarriages between Floridanos and Menorcans began during this period.

Durring much of American history, there has been unrest, The Castillo de Sam Marcos, was built as a way to bring Florida settlers safety, during a time of panic. Although many left after the initial settling of the town, The Menorcans stayed, and just like the fort, their history has shaped this town since.

Creative Component:

(from the perspective of the Native Americans who were held captive at the fort)

As we walked through the gates, there was a burst of stale air

then men from far lands, sat us down and cut our hair,

 told us what we must wear

and to whom we send our prayer

the land which was once ours 

now has us behind metal bars

its been weeks since we've been able to see the stars

as they continue to take what is really ours