THE OLDEST CITY'S HISTORY
Saint Augustine City tidbits
Some interesting St. Augustine details
1893: The first Alligator Farm opens. It was relocated to the north on Anastasia Island in 1908. (details)
In the 1880's St. Augustine was connected to Anastasia Island by "The Myth" ferry, followed by a wooden bridge in 1895.
On April 1927 the Bridge of Lions opened. Restoration of the bridge took place early 21st century. (details)
1924: The castillo, the city gate and Fort Matanzas are designated national monuments by presidential proclamation.
1933: The Historic Sites Act brought national monuments under management of the National Park Services.
1947: Otto C. Lightner buys the Alcazar and leaves it to St. Augustine's citizens.
The Alcazar becomes the Lightner Museum + minicipal offices + St. Augustine City Hall. (details)
1959: The Florida legislature establishes the St. Augustine Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission.
1968: The Ponce de Leon hotel becomes Flagler College. (details)
1997: The Cordova opens for commercial lodging again and is renamed Casa Monica Hotel. (details)
2001: Spanish King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia come to visit St. Augustine.
The Spanish hospital was once an Indian burial ground. (details)
Aviles Street was previously called Hospital Street.
In 1967 the hospital was constructed as a museum
Previous notice on city gates in the "good old times":
$ 10.00 fine for driving or riding through the gate faster than a walk!
Why is St. Augustine unique?
- First permanent European settlement in North America.
- The first European style town plan.
- Site of the first Christian mass.
- First trans-atlantic port.
- Site of the first hospital.
- Site of the first tavern.