SW089 Merry Fort Christmas: Replica Seminole Wars Supply Depot Presents Key Logistics Link

In this episode we look at a replica Seminole Wars fort with the peculiar name: Fort Christmas. The fort was built as a resupply station and post for the U.S. Army for its removal efforts against the Seminole. Construction began on Christmas day 1837; hence, Fort Christmas. The original fort was located about a half mile from where the present replica structure stands. Today, one can inspect that replica and visit 19^th century buildings as part of the Fort Christmas park about 20 miles from Florida’s east coast, near Titusville.

With us to describe the fort, its place in Seminole War history, and the many historic buildings and artifacts on the campus is Joseph Adams. He is a recreation specialist at Fort Christmas and holds several history degrees.

 

 

 

In year's past, Fort Christmas has hosted living historians portraying soldiers and militia. Kent Low (above) explains process to load the musket. (Below) Troops fire a simulated volley. 

 

 

The reenactors demonstrate soldier marching (above) and soldier defense posture (below).

 

 

Host Patrick Swan is a board member with the Seminole Wars Foundation. He is a combat veteran and of the U.S. Army, serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, and Kosovo, and at the Pentagon after 9/11. A military historian, he holds masters degrees in Public History, Communication, and Homeland Security, and is a graduate of the US Army War College with an advanced degree in strategic studies. This podcast is recorded at the homestead of the Seminole Wars Foundation in Bushnell, Florida. 

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