FouxDINo or ST. AuGITsTrz By PzDoo HMLzNDZz, SzrrnMBna 8, 1566.
Sto'o Iaou /
PETALS
am
PLUCKED
FROM
it
SUNNY
CLIMES.
BY SILVIA SUNSHINE.
uit!, ?IIusiratioiis.
NASHVILLE, TENN.:
SOUTHERN METHODIST PUBLISHING HOUSE.
PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR.
1880.
q68r
69
Entered, according to Act of Congress,
in the year 1879,
THE AUTHOR,
of Congress, at Washington.
Q p
in the
Office of the Librarian
ALL
THE
FLORIDA
SETTLERS,
AND
THOSE WHO WISH IT
A BRIGHT AND PROSPEROUS FUTURE,
THIS VOLUMIS OUME RESPECTFULLY
DEDICATED.
2->
INTRODUCTORY
NOTE.
HIS book contains a brief account of the early settle-
ment of
Florida, and some of
its Indian conflicts,
together with many amusing incidents connected with its
present history; also a new illustration, prepared expressly
for this work-the whole being a collection of travels, and
what
is to be seen in various portions of
Florida, Key
West, and Cuba; with a Gazetteer and Florida Guide-book
attached, designed for the use of tourists and settlers.
"^^-tr"
cn 2
PREFACE.
WRITING,
like other employment, furnishes a reward
T V to those who are fond of it-elevates the mind to a
higher and happier state of enjoyment than merely grasp-
ing for earthly treasurera desire to discover something beau-
tiful in our surroundings, a nobility of character in mankind,
a grandeur in all God's works.
My travels, both in Florida and Cuba, when not suffer-
ing from sickness,
were
an uninterrupted source of pleas-
ure and entertainment, made thus by the smiles of friend-
ship, intercourse among kind-hearted people, combined with
the luscious fruits and delightful scenery by which I was al-
most constantly surrounded.
In arranging the historical portion of this work, I have
endeavored to sift conflicting events, at all times
retaining
those which
were
the most tangible, and :rejecting many
which have been received by superficial
observers as con-
sistent truths.
I shall feel amply rewarded
if any sad, sensitive heart,
wounded
in life's struggles, is cheered
even
for awhile in
perusing these pages, or the
consumptive invalid entertained
with a pleasanter potion than his
cod-liver
and gloomy fore-
bodin
of future ill.
-4"~3~E~ii~Yrc~~ ~
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.............................................17
Adieu to Atlanta and arrival in Macon-Early settlement of Savan-
nah by General Oglethorpe-Met by the Yamacraw Indians with pres-
ents-Death of Count Pulaski-Bonaventure Cemetery-The inland
route to Florida-Pass St. Simon's Island-Wesley visits Frederica,
to establish his faith Cumberland- Island, the home of Nathanael
Greene-Olives-The scuppernong line-Dungenness, the burial-
place of Light-Horse Harry Lee-General Robert E. Lee visits
the grave of his father-Amelia Island-Taken by filibusters-Their
surrender-Fine beach and light-house-The turtle-Sea-shells-
God's treasures-A resting-place for the weary.
CHAPTER II........... ...................28
Fate of the Spanish galleons-St. John's Bar and River-General re-
marks on Florida-Lumber-mills-Jacksonville-Grumblers-The in-
valid-Churches-Dr. Stowe preaches in the-Methodist church-Mrs.
Harriet Stowe goes to sleep-Sermon by a colored brudder--Journal-
ism-Moncrief Springs-The invincibility of boarding-house kepers-
The cemetery-Too much delay with invalids before coming t Florida.
CHAPTER III........................................... 4
Jacksonville Agricultural Association, and its advantages-Exhibits.
of wine, perfume, and fruits-Industries of the ladies-Yachts-Gen-.
eral Spinner-Steamer Dictator-Nimbus on the river-Mandarin-.
Employment of its inhabitants-Murder of Mr. Hartley by Indians-
Weariness of war by the settlers-Fanciful names given to towns-
Hibernia and Magnolia-Green Cove Springs-Fortat Picolata-Pilat-
ka-Putnam House-The Herald, edited by Alligator Pratt-Colonel
Harte's orange-grove-The Catholic Bishop as sexton-Ocklawaha
River.
CHAPTER IV..........................................55
No fossilized Spaniards on the Ocklawah'a-Scenery on its banks-
Thick growth of timber-Passengers amuse themselves killing alliga-
tors-Climbing asters-Air-plants-Water-lily-An affectionate meet-
ing at Orange Springs-The deaf lady-Pleasure-riding in a cracker-
cart-Northern and Southern crackers-March of improvement-Make
fastl-Wooding up-Passengers take a walk-Night on the water-
Surrounded by thickets-Our flame-lit craft moves on with its pillar
of fire-Who I-Plutonic regions-Pyrotechnic displays.
CHAPTER V ..................... ...... .........69
Incident as we enter Silver Springs-A gentleman loses his grinders
-The Mirror of Diana-Sunset-A beautiful legend of the Princess
10 Contents.
Weenonah-A scientific description by Prof. J. Le Conte-Vicinity of
the springs-Improvements-Description of Ocala-Impressions of
De oto-Public Square-Contented, hospitable people-Marion county
the back-bone of the State-Matt. Driggers and his neighbors go on a
mastodon hunt-Lakes and long prairie-grass above Silver Spring--
The man who wanted a sheriff to marry him-Leesburg and its im-
provements-A dredging-boat mistaken lor a eook-stove-Indian trails
-Historic relics -Lake Dunham-Okahumkee-The Ocklawaha his-
toric ground.
CHAPTER V I........................................... 90
Florida during the Indian war-Cumbersome movements of the troops
-Cause of the war-Treaty of Payne's Landing-Birthplace of Osce-
ola-Lives with his mother in Okefinokee Swamp-Afterward in thi
Big Swamp-Osceola expresses opposition to the "treaty "-Jumper
unwilling to go West-Charlie Emaltha-Plea for remaining-Indian
poetry-Appearance of Osceol--Hostility toward the survey force-
oes not favor immigrating-Decision of Micanopy-Osceola in irons
at Fort King-Sullen, then penitent-First hostile demonstration
from the Indians-Murder of Private Dalton-Killing of Charlie
Emaltha-Osceola seeks revenge in the assassination of General
Thompson-Dade Massacre-Micanopy fires the first gun-More than
one hundred whites killed-Depredations of daily occurrence-Battle
of Withlacoochee-Captain Ellis, of Gainesville-Capture of Osceola
by General Jessup-Imprisoned first in Fort Marion, afterward sent
to Fort Moultrie-His death-Chechotar, his wife-Poetry by a friend
-Sisters of Osceola now living in the West.
CHAPTER VII.......................................105
Shores of the upper St. John's, where various kinds of timber grow,
and bony stock range-Mounds and their contents-Their obscure
origin-The chasm not yet bridged-Belief in the immortality of the
soul-The mounds a shrine-Conduct of the Spanish invaders-An-
cestral veneration-Articles for use deposited with the body-Unan--
swered questions-History of mound-building in its infancy-Found
in Europe- Uses of mounds- Monumental mounds -The mystery
shrouding their structure-Intrusive burial-The growth on Florida
mounds, and the distinguishable feature of mound-builders-Mound
near New Smyrna--Mounds in South Florida--The large one at
Cedar Keys-Mounds for sacrifice-Description of a victim-Pyramid
of Cholula-Mexican teocalli-Pyramids for kings-Mounts of ordi-
nance-8acred fires-Indians worshiped "1 high places"-The temple
at Espiritu Santo-Residence of King Philip-Lake Jessup mound-
Copper weapons-Indians worship the sun and moon-Burial urns-
Pearls a heavenly product-The Indian empress a prisoner-Manu-
facture of bends from conch-shells-Pearls of no value found on the
coast of Florida-Who were these architects?-A veil obscures our
vision in trying to discover the engineers of these mounds-The key
never found- Tumuli, mounds, and plateaus, all objects of interest.
CHAPTER VIII ......................... .......... ....121
A description of the animals and birds seen on the St. John's a cent-
ury since-Lovely landscape-The happy family-Lake George-Ea-
terprise-Mellouville-Sulphur Springs-Lake Harney and Salt Lake
j
Cobnntns. 11
-Indian River-Settlers discouraged on account of the Indians-An
order for blood-hounds-Battle of Calooshatehee-Famished soldiers,
and fidelity of the dog-Big Cypress Swamp-Locality of the chiefs-
What the Indians cultivate-Their babies never cry-The Prophet,
and his influence as a medicine man-Wild Cat in command of Fort
Mellon-Speech of Sam Jones-Hanging ofChekika-Major Belknap
takes his command into the Big Cypres-Country developed by war
-Indiau River after the war the sportsman's heaven-Oame, oysters,
and fish-Scientifie theory on the formation of coquina-Fine products
of the Indian River country-A resort for consumptives-Camp-eook-
ing-Soothing influences from the surroundins-Coming down the
St. John's-The sick man--tewardess and 'gaitors"-Curious people
with curious things-The chameleon-The fawn-The erane-The
bug-hunter and his treasures-The many old people in Florida-The
sportsman.
CHAPTER IX................................. ....... 139
Stop at Tocoi for St. Augustine-Scenery along the route-Stage-con-
tractor's notice-Murder of Dr. Weedmat--Cloth houses-Two mail-
carriers murdered-The blood-hounds-Mr. Francis Medicia and four
others shot-Remarks by a resident on witnessing the scene-Wild
Cat the leader of this atrocity-The theatricals fill their engagement
-Coacoochee admires himself in the glass, also one of General Her-
nandez's beautiful daughters-His capture and escape-His twin sister
and her pearls-Returns, dressed in theatricals, for a parley with the
whites--tarts West, and dies on the way.
CHAPTER X..................................... 1
St. Augustine described in rhyme-The old Spaniards-A place for
stimulus of thought-Treachery of legends-Early settlers lured by
tales of wealth-Historical antiquity-Astonished Seloes-Capture by
Sir Francis Drake-St. Augustine, 1764-French privateers-Rory
McIntosh the Don Quixote of the times-American flag raised in
1821-Freedom to worship God-St. Augustine archiea--Dr. McWhir
the founder of Presbyterianism in Flonda-Appearance in 1834-The
frost-Every thing shrouded in a kind of tradition-Fromajardis, or
Garden Feast-Matnnsas River-Nuns--Escribanio, or St. Mary's
Convent-The ancient city sleeps all summer-The dear old folks
from their Northern homes, and the young ones too-Curioitkes-
Crafts of all kinds-Gayety of the winter-Remarkable memory of
the natives-Peaceful days-No welcome for adventurers-St. Augus-
tine supposed to have been the residence of the Peri-Expressing an
unfavorable opinion about Florida not popular here.
CHAPTER XI..........................................173 '
The cathedral-Regular attendance of its worshipers-Harsh tones
of the church chime-Early mase-Cathedral finished in 1793-Mate-
rial employed-Moorish belfry-Irreverent visitors-Religion of the
natives a part of their existence-The bishop regarded as a vicegerent
-Mistaken conclusions of outsiders- Peculiar frescoes representing
death-Christmas Eve-Ceremonial conducted by Bishop Verot-Ad-
ministration of the sacrament-Tolemato Oemetery-Its custodian-
Murder of Father Corpa by the Indians-Chapel dedicated to Father
Varela-Tablet-inscriptions erased by time-A medallion supposed to
have been worn by Father Corps, which was brought from Rome.
12 Contents.
CHAPTFR XII................. ................... .....183
Castle San Marco-Indestructibility of the material employed-Com-
menced in 1565-Completed by Montiano, 1756, with the aid of Mex-
ican convicts-Attacked by Oglethorpe-Appearance in 1740-Im-
proper change of names-Description of Fort Marion-Its resemblance
to Scott's Gardb Douloreuse-The chapel and its holy mysteries-Iron
cages-Caving in of the bastion-No cages sent to the Smithsonian
Institute-The wooden machine-The old sergeant-Human bones not
unusual in other ruins-Spaniards branded with the cruelties of the
Inquisition-True version of the iron cages from Sefior B. Oliveros-No
nation exempt from cruelties during some period of their history-The
Western Indians retained as hostages in the fort.
CHAPTER XIII.......................................198
The sea-wall-when commenced-Material employed-Boulevard of
the city-City gates and vandal visitors-Tapoquoi village-Murder
or Father Rodriguez-La Sylpbide rose-Fine pulpit talent-Sabbath
in January-The Presbyterian Church-Flowers from the gardens of
Messrs. Alexander and Atwood-Gushing young men-Dr. Daniel F.
March and his words of comfort-A description of the Episcopal
church-A curious question about disputed grounds-Dr. Root, the
clergyman-A peculiar man and his dog, that walked into the church
from habit-St. Augustine a restorer to both health and reason-Pub-
lic reading-room-Circulating library-What shall we eat?-Ships
constantly coming in with supplies-Fresh vegetables-Oranges-
Hotels and fine boarding-houses-Growlers-Gratuitous hospitality
now obsolete-The most eligible houses-Summer resort-Pleasant
people found by the sea.
CHAPTER XIV.... ........ ..... ....... ..... ...... 214
How they spend their time in the ancient city-A slight departure
into history-Different kinds of visitors-Grand opening of the Lunch-
basket on the North Beach-Music and moonlight on the water-The
Indian buffalo-hunt near the old fort-Dancing inside by the Indian
prisoners-Preparation for a gala day, March, 1877-Post-band-
Yacht-rnce-A jockey-race-The hurdle-A foot-race by the Indians
-Wheelbarrow contest-Victor and greenbacks-Ham and money--
The cat a musical animal-St. Augustine Hotel, where music is made
from their sinews.
CHAPTER XV ......... ......... .......... ... ..224
Longevity in St. Augustine-Manufacture of orange marmalade and
wine-" El Pavo Real "-Genovar & Brother, wine-makers-Visit-
ors leaving-A page from unwritten history-Tolling the bells for the
pope-Grand illumination by the Yacht Club-The ignes-fatui boats
-String-band and dancing-Capricious weather a comfort to growlers
-A change to balmy air and waving palms-The Indians leave-They
have no use for Government clothes on the plains-Mrs. Black Hore
and Mochi dressed in hats and plumes-The Indianl leave their
Moody & Sankey song-books-A picture-written letter from the squaw
of Minimic-These Indians differ from novel-writer characters-The
strain of civilization during their stay being too great they mutiny,
headed by White Horse-A squad of soldiers from the barracks search
bontnts. 13
and iron four of them-Fort closed to visitors-They pine for home,
the aristocracy of their nature scorning restraint-Money made by
polishing sea-beans, etc.-Description of St. Anastasia Island-Ponies
feeding on marsh-grass-Attack of General Oglethorpe in 1740-The
old light-house built by the Spanish, and used as a fortress-Fresh
water in mid-ocean caused from lime-sinks-Treaty of Fort Moultrie
-Origin of the Seminoles.
CHAPTER XVI......................................235
Burning of the Spanish Governor's son by the Indians over a century
since-The Great Spirit as arbiter-Fort Matanas--Its age, use, pres-
ent appearance-Entered by an escalade-New Smyrna settled by Dr.
Turnbull with his Greek colony-They at first engage in the culture
of indigo, which soon fails-Great dissatisfaction among the colonists,
who are finally released, and retire to St. Augustine-The Douglass
Dummit Plantation-Indian Key Massacre, August 15, 1840-Murmur-
ings of the citizens.
CHAPTER XVII....... .....................245
The Everglades Expedition, under Colonel Harney, 1841-Prepara-
tions-Spanish Indians-Leave Fort Dallas,arriving at Ghitto's Island
-The bird flown-Sam Jones's Island, containing villages and pleas-
ure-grounds-The soldiers greatly annoyed by roaches and mosquitoes
-Prophet's Island-Discovery by Indians-Sergeant Searles mortally
wounded-Arrival at New River-Fort Dallas-General appearance
and extent of the Everglades-Manilla hemp and the cotton-plant
indigenous-Return of Colonel Harney-Grand ovation in St. Augus-
tine-Sorrowful reflection on the situation-Present inhabitants of
the Everglades-Old Tiger Tail-Intrenches himself in Mexico as
brigand, afterward makes his way to Florida, and becomes chief of
the Seminoles-Father Dufau goes to the Everglades as a missionary
-"Two squaws no good"-Dress of the Indians-Everglade alligators
and moccasins no respecters of persons-Primeval condition of the
country, with its trees, birds, and native growth.
CHAPTER XVIII...... .......... .. *................. 260
From Jacksonville to Cedar Keys-The Florida Central-Baldwin-
Alligators and moccasins-West India Transfer Railroad-Piney Woods
-Trail Ridge-Lawtey-Starke-Turpentine distillery-Serenades-
Waldo-Alachua county-Hummock-lands and phosphates-The in-
dignant Boston lady-Alachua settled in 1750 by an Indian named
Secoffe-Juggs or sinks-Approach to Gainesville-This town named
for General E. P. Gaines-Accommodations for visitors-Tillandsia
and its uses-Orange Lake the natural home of the orange-Budded
trees-Eudalyptus-tree for malarial districts-Information on the sub-
ject of lands-Orange City, Arredondo, Albion, and other prospective
cities-Bronson-Its good settlers-Otter Creek-" Great Gulf Hum-
mock "-Its tropical growth.
CHAPTER XIX........... ....... ................... 270
Cedar Keys, the terminus of the West India Transit Railway-Extor-
tion-Dr. Mellvaine's Hotel-Fourth of July toasts, 1843-Steamers
from Cedar Keys to Manatee-Early settlement of Clear Water Har-
bor-The unfortunate Narvaez-Inaccessibility of South Florida-
14 Contents.
Manatee-Its dwellings embowered among orange-trees-Tenacity of
contesting Indians-Their independence subdued by association-The
cactus pear eaten by Indians-Present population-Church privileges
for worship-Schools-Good physicians-Sowing before reaping-
Boarding-houses kept as sanitariums-Pantry supplies-Fine fish-
An Elysium for rheumatics-No starving-The grape-culture suggted
-Also wine-making-A variety of crops-Sugar-cane ratooning for
six years-Old-fashioned bees in gums-This locality a fine resort for
those.who wish to avoid cold-The sunny-side of nature turned out
in February-Oleander and orange-buds bursting their pink and
white petals-The banana-Spring flowers, etc.-Zephyr breezes-The
rose-"A child of summer"-Historic records--Hon. Judah P. Ben-
jamin-Remains of the mastodon and megatherium.
CHAPTER XX ............... ......... ... .....285
Tampa-Undisturbed slumbers-First settlement by Narvaez-Poor
Juan Ortiz I-His vigils among the dead-Espicitu Santo Bay-De Soto
and his festive soldiers-Billy Bowlegs-Cedar and pine lumber-mills
in Tampa-A school and its teacher-Old Tampa-Uses of the cabbage
palm-tort Brooke-Appeal of General Worth to the vanity of Coa-
coochee, which finally results in his band being sent West-An invo-
cation to the Great Spirit during a storm.
CHAPTER XXI............... ...... ............. .....296
Marooning from Tampa to Key West-Drum-fish-Loons-Acrobat
fleas-Roaches-Bilge-water-The Methodist preacher and his chil-
dren-Sailor's fare-Landing lady-passengers-Terrasilla Island and
its products-Madam Joe-The romantic young couple-Sarasota Bay
-Stock-raising- Health -Mangrove thickets-Perpetual verdure-
Palmetto houses-Striking for Varid for ish-Varied amusements for visitors
Hunting deer-Bugs and butterflies-Egmont Key-Rare shells and a
rarer Spiritualist, with his toothless wife-Professor Agassis-Bucca-
neers-Jean Lafitte-Sunset at sea-Isles of the sea-Boca Grande-
Felippe the Spaniard, and his Indian concubines-Polly goes West for
money-Punts Rassa, the terminus of the International Telegraph.
CHAPTER XXII .............. ..... ..................313
Alone with God and the stars-Phosphorescent waves-Reefs and coral
formation-Key West-Cocoa-trees-Chief of the Everglades-Dwell-
ings-Inhabitants-Early settlers-Conchs-Their origin and occupa-
tion-Court of Admiralty-Wrecking-The International Telegraph
Survey-Public schools-The sisters-Cigar-makers-Reading while
working-Monkey-jugs and their use-Cochineal--Spoj e and spong-
ers-Fort Taylor and other fortifications-Curiosity -hop-Captain
Dixon its Greek keeper.
CHAPTER XXIII.................. ................. .327
Middle Florida and South Georgia-Jealousy between Middle and East
Florida-Good landed titles in Middle Florida-Disappointment the
result of overestimation-No spot with every thing desirable-Dis-
eased people tinctured with a sullen melancholy-Lake City-Deriva-
tion of the name-The citizens-Style of architecture adapted to the
climnte-Products-Atmosphere for asthmnatics-Monticello-Its peo-
Contents. 15
ple-Former wealth evidenced by the numerous freedmen-Good hotel
here-The festive frogs: great variety, some with loud-sounding voices
-The pretty frog" that went to England-The singing-wasp-Tal-
lahassee, where De Soto spends his first winter, 1539-The Spanish
soldiers and their armor-Town incorporated, 1825-Corner-stone of
the capitol laid, 1826-Situation of Tallahassee-Governor Reed's mes-
sage, 1840-Blood-hounds and leash-men from Cuba-Two Indians
caught by them-Bounties on heads-Indian scare-Only a goat-In-
dians attack wagons, relieving negroes of their clothing-Former
wealth and culture in Tallahassee-Colonel Murat and his mother
come to America-Visit the Catholic Bishop, but not in regal style-
The neighbors are disappointed in a king's son-Birthplace, home,
and early associations of the gifted authoress, Mrs. Mary E. Bryan-
Wakulla Spring, with a beautiful description by Bartram-Chattahoo-
chee-State penitentiary-Montgomery and Eufaula route to Florida
-Town of Quincy-Mountain-streams with a musical cadence-Cuban
tobacco and scuppernong grapes grown here-Stage communication
between Quincy and Bambridge-Cherokee rose-hedges-Bainbridge
-Its decline on account of railway communication-Thomasville-
Mitchell House-Gulf House-Embowered dwellings-Brisk trade-
Newspapers-Female college-Churches-Former wealth of Thomas
county-Colored politicians prefer speaking by proxy-No water com-
munication from Thomasville-Wire-grass country-Quitman-Home-
like hotels-Cotton factory-Valdoeta-Pine-trees-Plenty to eat-
Valdosta editor-Crowds on public days-Trip on the Gulf road-The
light-wood firesan epitome of the Arabian Nights' Entertainment.
CHAPTER XXIV ... ........... ................. .355
Pensacola musings-Its early settlement and capaciouslarbor-Origin
of the name-The soil contains clay for brick and pottery-Cas Blanca
-The city conquered by the Spaniards-Causes for its not competing
with other Gulf cities-Description of Fort Barrancas-It is supposed
to contain a dungeon-Fort Pickens-Fort St. Michael and Fort St.
Bernard-Ten dollars offered for the scalps of colonista-General move-
ments of General Andrew Jackson-Governor Callaves in the cala-
boose-Description of the old plaza-Present appearance of Pensacola
-It contains no fabled fountanms-A plank walk on which sailors reel
like drunken elephants-Prosperity of the place dependent on the
demand for lumber-Commotion on the arrival' of a ship-Resin-
ous wood and its light accompaniments-The Indians hated to leave
it-Ferdinand Park and its rural scenery-The market-house-The
singing fishermen-The proud fishermen with their big fish-An ox-
horn announces the sales-Fresh-water wells-Drawers of water loe
their vocation-Porpoises-Tropical fruit-culture not very successful
here-The washing bayou and its water-nymphs-Florida hunters-
The fleet-footed fawn a past record-The yellow-fever visitor-Perdi-
do, or Lost Bay-Escambia Bay-The alligator: her nest, and her
young-Churches-Free schools-Catholic schools-Episcopal school,
and its founder, Mrs. Dr. Scott.
CHAPTER XXV .................................378
Leaving Pensacola--Contentment in our moving habitation-A calm
-Physalia utriculus-A genuine nor'-wester an its accompaniments
A moment of terror-M7qrning at last-Isle of Pines and its products
16 Contents.
-Pirates--Water-spouts-Early history of Cuba-The Spaniards burn
an Indian-Cienfuegos-The fort on the bay-Cuban houses-Clothing
of the children-Cruelty to northern seamen-Mother Carey and her
unlucky chickens-The fate of the insurgents, and their numerical
strength-" La Purisima Conception "-Neglect of ceremonial duties-
The church inside-Its lady-attendants furnish their seats-The slave
receives a gentle admonition-The largest plaza on the island-The
beautiful sefioritas and the band-music.
CHAPTER XXVI..... .. ........ ... ...... .... .... 399
Distances from Cienfuegos to Havana-Railroads-Three classes of
passenger-ears-Smoking-Rain-drops-Harvest-Lo! the poor ox-
Goads Sugar-cane in bloom Cattle-herders The war Arabian
stock of horses-Devastations by the insurgents-Vegetation and va-
riety-Depots and drinking-Flowers-Fences from vegetation-Royal
palm and its uses-laves gathering palm-fruit-Great variety of
growth-Cactus family-Sugar and sugar-makers-Negro slaves and
coolies-Their miserable quarters-Chicken-ighting-Inhuman treat-
ment of the poor fowls-Matanzas-A Pentecostal illustration-"En-
glish and French spoken"-Dinner and its condiments-Matanzas
Bay at night-he tough old tars-Their families on shore-The phos-
phorescent lights on the water-The plaza and hotel-Our French
valet de chambre-Siesta-My cafi-El volante-Up the mountain-side
-El Cueva de Bellamar, being a remarkable subterranean temple-
Stalactites and stalagmites-Names given to the different formations
inside the cave-Return to Matanzas.
CHAPTER XXVII........................ ...... 424
From Matanzas to Havana-Buzzards-Description of El Moro Castle,
A.D. 1519-Captured, 1619, by Sir George Pocock-El Moro like the
Venetian "Bridge of Sighs "-Havana a century since-Its harbor
and fleet of ships-Architecture of the houses-Narrow streets-A
view from El San Carlos Hotel-Beautiful moonlight on the bay-El
Paseo-French coaches-Residence of the Captain-general-Ladies
shopping in volantes-Market-house-Mules, panniers, etc.-Work-
ing-class receive an early supply of grace-No Sabbath here-" Lot-
tera"--Beggars-Description of the cathedral-Bishop-Acolytes--
Organ-Tomb of Columbus-Santo Christobal-His life and mission
as Christ-bearer-Cemetario de Espeda-Its walls, vaults, tablets, in-
scriptions-Three bodies for sepulture-The poor without coffins-
The Protestant dead not admitted in Catholic grounds-Fragility of
promises in Cuba.
A Ramble into the Early History of Florida.......439
Florida Gazetteer, etc.............. ......... .............481
petals
1huced
from
'umn1
(Iimmes.
CHAPTER I.
TRIP to Floridazduring the winter season
is now the popular move for everybody,
whether invalid or not, which those living
in so close proximity as Atlanta find difi-
cult to
Atlanta is a
a thousand feet a
mountain breeze
with the purest o
the world. The
P.M. for Macon,
We arrive in
being fortified w
House, the tr
ing the comm
continues to
towns are pa
which have
effects of the
resist.
delightful summer resort,
situated
Lbove sea-level, visited by healthful
s in summer, besides being blesed
f freestone and chalybeate water in
night passenger train leaves at 10
)ne hundred and five miles distant.
Macon about 7 A.M., where, after
ith a good breakfast at the Brown
ain departs for Savannah-Macon be-
ence
the
Missed
never
war
meant of the mountain-slope which
sea-shore. Many pleasant little
through on the route, most of
r recovered from the devastating
.
Savannah is at last reached,
ninety-two miles from Macon.
2
one hundred and
To say that Savan-
(17)
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
nah is a pleasant place conveys an
indefinite idea
attractiveness.
night, but ar
before proceed
present site
lorpe was me
is, who, after
t buffalo-skin
painted the plumage
the following addi
said the chief, "a
falo-skin is warm,
fore love and prot
coming to Ameri
of finding a home
bankrupt gentle
ment of terms wit
out the city of Sa
res
re
th
ect
ca,
fo
en
h
,va
itv.. It thien contai
Many persons stop to remain
S I --... -- t t. ... -
of its
only a
month
The
Ogletl
Indian
with i
- -J A A- ---
acres each, in which were trees, walks,
The number of squares has now been
twenty-four-the walks all being paved
and swept daily. Forsyth Park is on
tended plan than these small squares,
large fountain, fine flowers, magnolia
trees, a small zoological collection-a
interest, displaying the taste and refi
well-cultured people. Pulaski Square
Count Pulaski, who was mortally wou
the American Revolution while in an
on the ground where the Central Depol
and a pump.
increased to
with granite,
a more ex-
containing a
grandiflora
1i objects of
nement of a
is named for
tnded during
engagement
t now stands.
lie died on board the brig Wasp as she was leaving
e so much please they tarry a
ding farther South.
of Savannah is where General
t, in 1733, by the Yamacraw
he had landed, presented him
,on the inside of which was
of an eagle, accompanied with
s: "The feathers of the eagle,"
soft, and signify love; the buf-
ie emblem of protection; there-
; our families." Oglethorpe, in
was stimulated with the desire
Fr the oppressed Protestants and
of England. Upon the adjust-
the Indians he proceeded to lay
nnah with the greatest regular-
ned ten public squares of two
)
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
Tybee for Charleston, when
to the sea. The citizens of
munificent bequests, have
Square a monument to Cou
stone of which was laid wh
visited America for the last
Savannah has made anot
discriminating powers in s
lovely spot, made sacred to
that remains of the loved
the river a
before.
his body was consigned
Georgia, through their
erected in Monterey
nt Pulaski, the corner-
en General La Fayette
time.
her fine
exhibit of her
electing a retired and
them by depositing all
ones who have crossed
'hey have christened it
Bonaventure,
Coming good.
of. death, tho
derive
Here
se who
where the huge live
entwine with their cc
umphal archways, w
moss clings lovingly t
in the winds like sor
on the brink of u
grounds were once tl
but have now been
dwelling of the dead
and contemplate the
Travelers, in leavi
go outside by sea, or
ring the latter on acec
I from the
rest, in the
ise warfare
-oaks, with
)mpanions,
while the sc
Spanish,
unyieldi
in life
overlap
forming
signifying,
ng embrace
has ended,
ping limbs,
natural tri-
,mber-hanging gray
;o its outstretched arms, waving
te weird fancy that lingers only
uncertainty. These beautiful
ie home of the Tatnall family,
purchased and devoted to the
I, whither the
I -
i1V1
change which aw
ng Savannah for
the inland route,
ount of avoiding
the passage being made bei
islands, before Fernandina
steamers are first-class in
long marsh-grass contains
lizards called alligators.
tween soun
is reached.
ng can cc
aits them
Florida,
many pre
sea-sickn
ds, inlets,
The inl
every respect,
tme
all.
can
fer-
ess,
and
and
and the
many of those colossal
They crawl about fear-
ii
(
A SCENE IN FORSYTH PARK, SAVANNAH.
t it
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
lessly in their hiding-places, while the swamp black-
bird whistles very sweetly for us as we pass along
so quietly most of the time that we are not exactly
certain of any movement, but ten miles an hour
the pro rata of speed.
are now
close to St.
Simon's Island, where
General Oglethorpe commenced another settlement
in 1736,
called Frederica.
On this equable-tem-
pered island they laid out a town, built a fort with
four bastions to protect their palmetto cabins, which,
as the historian describes
them, appeared
like a
camp with bowers,
"being covered with leaves of a
pleasing
color."
Natural
paths
arbors were
found here by the English, as if formed by the hand
of art, with the ripe grapes hanging in festoons of
a royal purple hue.
The settle
eme
nts made by Ogle-
thorpe in this portion of the country were the first
formed in the true spirit of i
improvement and colo-
nization.
With him came the great founder of Methodism
in America,
Wesley, who planted his standard on
this island, and mentions their object in the follow-
ing manner
"It is
not to gain riches and honor,
but to live wholly to the glory of God, as we have
come
in the serene hour of peace, when the floods of
controversy have subsided,
John Bartram visited St.
to sow the gospel seeds."
Simon's Island in 1744,
and makes the following record of his repast with a
friend:
"Our
rural
table
was spread
under
shadow of oaks, palms, and
sweet-bays, fanned by
the lively, salubrious breezes, wafted from the spicy
groves. Our music was the responsive love-lays of
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
the painted nonpareil and the alert, gay mocking-
bird, while the brilliant" humming-bird darted
through the flowery groves, suspended in air, drink-
ing nectar from the blooms of the yellow jasmine,
lonicera, andromeda, and azalea."
As we approach Fernandina we are nearing his-
toric ground-Dungenness, once a most charming
and attractive place, located near the southern ex-
tremity of Cumberland Island, the former home of
Nathannel Greene, of revolutionary fame, where his
last days were spent peacefully, of which pleasant
period he thus speaks; "The mocking-birds that
sing around me morning and evening, the mild and
balmy atmosphere, with the exercise which I find in
my garden culture." This locality seemed to have
constituted a happy close to his eventful career.
Th<
that s
lnous.
were
which
to the
dued
Geths
It was
3 English planted an olive-grove on this island
succeeded well, as though the trees were indige.
They used the fruit in making pickles, which
considered very fine. Is it not the olive-tree
the Christian should love and venerate, even
"hoary dimness of its delicate foliage, sub-
and faint of hue, as though the ashes of the
emane agony had been cast upon it forever?"
at the foot of the Mount of Olives. beneath the
shadow
that was
"The S
olive-tre
trees wh
his n
in M
of the trees from which it deriv
selected for the most mournful
aviour's Passion." The good a
e will flourish in this climate.
rich furnished the A'ostle Paul
ost powerful allegories. The
[arch, producing a profusion
es its name,
of scenes-
nd the wild
I
It was these
with one of
wild olive blooms
of pink-tinted,
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
white, star-shaped flowers, while its polished,
ever-
green verdure, remains all the year, affording a com-
pact and beautiful shade.
this island, before the
scuppernong g
late war, was seen a
rape-vine, nearly three hundred years
supposed to have been planted by the Spanish
missionaries.
It was
pronounced
a prolific
bearer, producing two thousand pounds of fruit per
annum
,and covering nearly three
acres of ground.
Here
rests all that remains of Light-Horse Harry
Lee, the
gifted and honored dead.
of life flickered
died March
Sbefor
1818.
e
'I
" Here his
being extinguished."
The decaying marks of time,
and the
more ruthless destruction of war, have fear-
fully invaded and devastated this once revered retreat.
"Silent though it be, there are memories lingering
still vocal amid the mutations of fortune and the
desolations of war-memories which carry the heart
back to happy days and peculiar excellences
come not again."
which
When
General R.
E. Lee last visited SavaiAnah
the burial-place of his illustrious parent was notfoi-
gotten.
It was the only tribute of respect which
his great feeling heart could bestow, the last mission
of love he was able to perform.
-Did he think before
spring
should return again, decked i
n her gay robes,
flinging
ten thousand odors upon its balmy breath,
that his grave would
friends, and
then
that lovin
be visited by weeping
hands should twine fresh
flowers for his
remains?
How sleep the brave who sink to rest,
By all their country's honors blest
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
We next pi
source of whi
fimed beauti
These were
had intrench,
efforts to pu
lands, which
Fernandina
is eighteen m
sels can apprc
'from shoals, a
ass the mouth
ich is a vast
fll women,
the last of
ed themselv
rsue them
receded as t
Sis situated
iles in length
ach the har
s the water
nish an average of nine
as of many other places
a few of whom are rem
ments of the Embargo
vateers
vessels
Another
country
Gene
ica, wai
and slavers, th
have been seen
r settler mention
was first explore
ral Oglethorpe, i
3 impressed witl
speaks of Ame
th of St. Mary
lake, where d
or Daughters
the Yemasse
es here for D
being,
hey
Son
h an
bor at
on th(
like tl
ere app
6melia I
two in
ly time
b bar wi
teen feet.
Its
4
's R
welt
of t
e tri
'otec
e en
iver, the
the far-
he Sun.
be, who
tion, all
chanted
reached.
island, wl
width.
without
11 always
first settle
ich
7es-
fear
fur-
ers,
in Florida, were Spaniards,
gaining. During the move-
War, together with the pri-
ree hundred square-rigged
in this harbor at one time.
ns the mounds when the
ed by
ike ot
h the
ia Island
the Spaniards.
her explorers in Amer-
coast of Florida, and
: "The sea-shore, cov-
ered with myrtle
vines in the wild
melody from the
-. I *
and
wo(
turt
*l
aniu mocKing-birds.
upon Amelia Islar
years, coveting it fc
In 1817, gregor
an enthusiast on th
only fifty followers,
ing edicts, of more
3
id
)r
peach-trees, orange-trees and
ds, where echoed the sound of
e-doves, nonpareils, red-birds,
Different nationalities looked
with longing eyes for many
Lheir possession.
McGregor, a Scottish baronet-
e subject of contest-came, with
making proclamations and issu-
!magnitude than plans for their
I
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
execution, but soon retired to the quieter quarters
of his Highland home.
Afterward
dred and fift
overpowered
would have
ley, medley
upon Amel
urers, Irish
Spaniards,
tions of su
I
were not de
unity; c
of frequent
Previous
had been
the Spanis
President
disputed p
*r mi
s101ons.
privateeri
United St
nandina
Catholic
in the spri
On Am<
n.......A
came Commouore A
y men, on a filibuster
1 the Spanish troops
been a difficult task t
crowd of residents ii
.a Island, composed
and French refugees,
privateers, natives, a
:h varied disposition
signed to promote ha
onseq
ury, with one hun-
ing expedition, and
i. At this time it
o find a more mot-
Sany country than
of English advent-
Scotch, Mexicans,
nd negroes. Fac-
s and inclinations
rmony in any coni-
uently, riots and disturbances were
t occurrence.
s to this movement by Aury, negotiations
pending between th
h Government for Fl
Monroe and his Cab
property, in a manner
iese Spaniards, beinr
ng adventurers, Pre
rates troops, which to
without resistance, i
Majesty of Spain.
ing of
elia Isl
exhibits a flash
level of the sea,
built upon a pr
1818.
and is situated
-light, one hun
visible sixteen
omontoiry which
e U
orid
inet
,as
g un
side
ok p
In ti
rhis
united States and
a; consequently,
looked upon the
their own posses-
able to expel the
nt Monroe sent
possession of Fer-
he name of His
event happened
a light-house, which
dred feet above the
miles. The tower is
i overlooks the sur-
rounding country and the Atlantic as far as the eye
can extend.
At Fernandina the Atlantic Gulf and West India
On Am
k
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
Transit Railroad commences, where the gontleman-
ly officers connected with and in charge of the road
reside.
reading
facility
health
by stein
contain
The ol
ess here t
obliging
o give i
es resulting front
-location, beside,
am-ships with all
us a population
habitants, and, on ace
been a resort for mai
season by persons front
The-misfortunes of
Fernandina, crippling
I
superintendent is always in
information upon the peculiar
n living on this route, as a
s being so closely connected
parts of the world. It now
of about three thousand in-
)unt of the- tine sea air,,has
y years during the summer
Sthe interior of the State.
our late war fell heavily on
its energies and crushing its
present prospects for a time. The real estate of its
residents was confiscated and sold for taxes. Some
of it has been redeemed, and the remainder is pass-
ing through a series of lengthy litigations, which,
when settled, are designed to decide the validity of
tax-sales generally throughout the entire State. The
present condition of affairs places the inhabitants in
rather a Micawber-like condition, waiting for some-
thing to turn up in the future.
As a resort far away from the busy, bustling cares
of life, this place seems peculiarly fine. The island
being entirely surrounded by salt-water, a delightful
breeze visits the inhabitants at all seasons of the
year-in summer, zephyry as the vale of Cashmere,
or the soft winds which bore the silver-oared barge
of Cleopatra through the Cydnus. The most at-
tractive feature of all in this locality is the beautiful
beach, connected with the town by a good shell-road
two miles in length, bordering the island for twenty-
2*
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
one miles, and over two hundred yards in width.
is this unsurpa
ants love to ent
see it in your d
here, well filled
or wade in the
wonderful vast
ssed drive about
certain you at all
reams. A
with fine,.
surf, allow
ness of the
waters which wash the Atl
the imagination cannot co
beach being so firm that
riage scarcely make an hid
good
fast h
inla
most
antic
iceiv
a pai
t which the inhabit-
times, until you can
livery-stable is kept
horses, trained to trot,
visitors to admire the
beautiful expanse of
shores. At ebb-tide
e of a finer place, the
r of horses and'car-
entation on the surface in
passing
manship
interspe
existence
very foa
gulls an
peaceful
walks, s
species,
and r
Thes4
Mind
Here
high-
over it.
i, being cc
rsed with
e. Here
m, or flit
d pelican
quietud
standing u
preseutin
lever t
e are i
ing-ts
the ti
water
:urnin
n real
of th
urtle
marl
)I
The pavement is God's ow0 work-
nposed of white sand, occasionally
shells, many of them the tiniest
the happy s
across the
s
e,
juxa
whi
daIU
0ih
g arm
Shis b
ty ver
Lillip
homes
, and
rate
le th
t like
s in
ack,
y curl
iutian
to de
when
ea-birds ride on the sil-
breezy water; the sea-
and flap their wings in
e sand-crab takes his
a pigmy of the human
a soldier-like manner,
however hotly pursued.
io
IS
'p
!
us little
in Gulli
osit her
they are
creatures, re-
ver's Travels.
eggs beyond
hatched re-
turns to escort a family of one hundred an
babies to her home in the sea. Here the
moonbeams dance upon the surface of the wa
silence and solitude, until it resembles the a
of a silver mirror. Many pretty shells are for
this beach, of various sizes and designs, witt
d fifty
bright
tter, in
surface
ind on
Socca-
sionally
desirable
cabinet
specimens,
which
are
3
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes. 27
thrown out when the waters become much agitated.
This is the spot for the jilted lover to forget his idol,
and the disconsolate lady her imaginary devotee;
for those fretted by the rough edges of corroding
care to retire and find a respite from their struggles;
the bankrupt who has been conquered in the bat-
tles of brokerage, to visit and be reminded God. has
given us more treasures to delight us than the dross
which
which
passes from
our grasp
all are struggling
00 Z
like a shadow,
and striving
to win
store-house of the fathomless deep, where we can
contemplate that great image of eternity,
"the in-
visible
boundl
ess, endless, and sublime.
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
CHAPTER
N leaving Fernandina
River. which is form
the ba
iards.
fore w
It is
wl
it
,ra
P(
de
from the Atlantic.
one mile from Fe
look-out for pilots
r, besides a few houses
Fort Clinch is the la
e reach the St. John's
the month of January
hen our thoughts rev
of this. country, when
age- looking craft-n
ponderous old ships, wit
vices carved on their ]
,the timber used bein
of which were driven t
manner among the bi
measuress of silver and
and satisfy the cupid
Vessels
six feet of wat
and returning
white caps wa
when the win
dread thi
er are oftel
with their
ve their si
id blows,
-a
ert
ve come out A
d by the tide
Ve pass Old
udina, which
) take vessels
e residence of
noticeable poi
ver bar.
bland
to the
the Spani
avigated
h sailing fi
rows, and
gm
o pi
break
go]
ahoga
eces ih
ers, th
d on t
mnelia
-water
Town,
has a
across
Span-
nt be-
breeze greets
early settle-
sh galleons-
these waters;
gures of vari-
high-peaked
ny and cedar,
i a most mer-
ius scattering
;he strand, to
ity of those who
s bar, as those drawing
times detained when
r cargoes of lumber.
lowy plumes, as a wa
which sends terror
found
g only
going
The
rning,
to the
hearts of the timid,
looks grand!
but the more daring exclaim, It
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
As we cross
-1
ran
ter
tov
Sa
tisl
Shi
fisl
r
in
the bar we are in sight of
Mfayport and Fort George Island-bot
ged for the accommodation of summit
visitors. Fishermen also live in these
vns, and are engaged, like the apostles
viour called them, in mending their n
ling is very profitable here during
ad abounds in this river, and being
i, it is much sought after.
rhe various descriptions published fro
those who visit Florida now are read
,king to this locality as a winter-resort,
new homes and health, as items of u
rest. For this reason writers should
their statements. In many tourists th<
current is created so far from
difficult matter for them to be
the surface
Impressed
im the pens
by persons
or in search
surpassed
be reliable
e emotional
That it is a
with exter-
nal obje
tude of
Settle
John's
in prefe
facilities
the desi
fortitud
many o
the ind
when ii
cts. For
fault-find
irs living
r this cause we meet with a multi-
lers.
in remote localities from the St.
River complain because visitors resort there
rence to all other parts of the State. If the
s and inducements were the same elsewhere,
re to go would be equal; but it requires the
e of a Livingstone to commence a trip into
f the most attractive parts of Florida, with
istinct prospect how they are to
ncl
are a rest
and when
ifest very
Laudon
ined to make a change.
ess, roving people, fond
confined where they cam
much the disposition of
nibre thus speaks of the
The
get away
Americans
of varied scenery,
not get away, man-
caged captives.
St. John's River:
two resorts
h places ar-
er and win-
diminutive
when their
ets. Shad-
the season.
a delicious
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
"The place is so pleasant that those who are mel-
ancholy wou
This stream,
of the
nearly
the Sp
ures, i
Here t
fee-col
cept w
stream
State,
three
aniard
Id be for
with its
where t
hi
s.
ts forme
his river
ored wa
here the
. unlike
ced
I
1
indred
who ca
r histo
glides
ters, an
tide co
any
coloring matter i
standing, and for
ored earth throun
lakes, t
tion tha
three m
ary. F
there a
twelve
shells, (
The cyj
banks i
together w
t en
miles,
rom
OVs
ov
its leafless,
dropsical fee
greeting to
from its tall
a complete
,trees. This
palm, which
and fraterni
virol
and
the
ume
in
which
to
tribute
he sav
years
me in
ry beir
before
1o 0
other i
contain
his reas
i which
h the d
t. It va
is though
mouth of
rous bluff
height, wi
elevations
ash, and cabb;
e Pilatka. Th
conical excres(
t, lo
the
est 1
man
ves to be a
gray mi
imbs to
tie of g
moss has
os9,
change their humor."
ries, is the great artery
age roamed at will for
after its settlement by
search of hidden treas-
g a page in the past.
e us, with its dark, cof-
erceptible current ex-
in, it being a remarkable
n North America. The
s is not precipitated by
on is attributed to a col-
it passes from the upper
iffereut kinds of vegeta-
ries in width from one to
t by many to be an estu-
the St. John's to Pilatka
s, some of them ten or
th an under-stratum of
s the pine-tree flourishes.
age-palmetto grow on the
ie weeping cypress, with
fences, called knees, and
lone. It gives a friendly
. which lives and swings
lowest
Sto the
affinity
twigs, furnishing
naked-appearing
for the pine or
thrives in close proximity, colonizing
zing in groups, oftentimes solitary, sigh-
ing or rustling as the sea-breeze comes to meet and
I
^
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes. 31
kiss its feathery crowns and perennial foliage. A
few of the trees are deciduous, as the swamp-oak,
ash, and poplar; most of the others are persistent,
the chan
of foliage
occurring so
quietly
scarcely observed.
The mistletoe, with
its green,
tufted foliage, fastens on the oak, and is a regular
parasite-a thief-for it deprives the tree of vitality.
The mistletoe
the birds, and,
seeds are used as an article of food by
g thus transported to the forest-
trees, adhere by means of a gluten until germination
commences.
The change of flags in 1821
C,
produced a change
with many of the citizens, when much local
infor-
mation
connected
history of Florida was
This province,
States,
was divided in
when
ceded
two parts,
to the United
ailed East and
West Florida.
Petitions were th
en frequ
ently for-
warded to
Washington,
with a request to have it
remain
divided
ag it
was inconveniently
large.
During the war which soon followed, many new ex-
plorations were made in the hidden hummocks and
intricate
recesses
of the State.
The drinking
- water
used
in Florida
come
from mountain-streams or arctic regions, but
in summer, mixed
with sugar and lemon-juice, or
sour orange, forms a most palatable and healthful
mixture.
Land-snakes are not plentiful, as many have sup-
posed, there being very few but water-snakes, which
can be easily accounted for, as the intense heat from
the fires which sweep through the long
year destroy them;
grass every
then there are no rocks for their
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
hiding-places, where they could rear 'patriarchal
families.
Musquitoes abound in some places on the coast,
and t
doub
insect
tions
soil o
Th
Strea
turn
from
salub
No
while
0
t,
ts.
o
the dwell
been recei
There i
f Florida,
ers
ved
s a
bu
f other countries
e climate is con
m, that conduct
ng in a submari
the North thus
rious influences
month is without
every warm day
our heads on some air
Many theories have
the formation of terra
in tents the impression has, no
that the air was made of these
due proportion of fleas in por-
t not more than in the sandy
stant
stant
s amw
ne c
pro
and
it its
t
y
y tempered by the Gulf
ray the
current,
during
life-ren
fresh p
tropical heat, re-
the cooler waters
an atmosphere of
ewing properties.
products and fruits,
he mocking-bird sings above
perch.
been advanced in regard to
rma
one most generally received
once submerged under wate
shells and other marine foss
elevated positions, which c
placed
afterws
trained,
the lan
coral i
there by the
ird receding.
Florida cann
d augments fr
nsect, limulus,
81
0
o
o
ea
Wt
t b
mt
ani
on our continent, the
being that it was all
r-as
ils ha
nlly c
overflow
hen this
e include
he combi
i barnacle
a proof of which
lve been found in
ould have been
ng the land, and
conclusion is at-
d, as every year
ned efforts of the
es, together with
the debris which is deposited upon them afterward.
If the disturbing influences along the shores were
less, the increase of land would be much greater, as
winds and waves are as destructive to the prosperity
of these subterranean
architects as tornadoes and
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
cyclones to the growth of fine forest-trees. The
coral insect is constantly working in his briny bed,
making masonry which resists the action of the ele-
ment in which it is placed, thus laying the founda-
tion for islands and continents. It is the work of
these madrepores and polyps that form reefs which
wreck so many vessels on its coast, thus making
fortunes for those who follow salvage entirely for a
support.
The fact of Florida as a health-resort has long
been established, the proof being furnished by the
length of time consumptives who come for the pur-
pose of
could N
ciently
their tas
efficacy
posure i
ties affi:
it
values th
percepti
Was eve
lingering a little longer than they otherwise
Forth, and living in the enjoyment of sufi-
good health to pursue any lucrative vocation
stes ma decide, is sufficient evidence of the
of the climate for pulmonic complaints. Ex-
n Florida, as in other places, has its penial-
xed. Near bodies of water a chilliness per-
e air as soon as the sun sets, which is plainly
ble to all delicate persons. No barometer
sr more sensitive to atmospheric variations
than the feelings of a sick person; no magnet was
ever attracted
to steel
more
sudden
nervous sensibilities to an agreeable
object.
disease ii
est judge
nd shad
s before
cheerful
This prescribing invariable
Small a humbug; the patient
,e. The resort for invalids,
es of night are falling on the
a pleasant light-wood fire, E
companions-remembering
nly than their
or disagreeable
rules for every
is usually the
when the dew
face of nature,
surrounded by
that an inter-
view of the internal emotions frequently for the sick
!
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
is not beneficial.
Try and keep from thinking how
badly
Many
sudde
when
and v
upon
oft you really
have lived for
n changes from
V
best sui
determil
ment in
keeping
ou are
en you
All ii
ts their
nation
store
their
their minds
thoughts, the
death comes,
About ten
Laudonnibre
ing his forti
naming it C
IX., of Fran
The former s
some degree
the first poir
its banks ar
bcing
built
the r
than
peris
none
Th
cated
Sthe on
between
iver. A
three hi
able a
of it re
ie first I
Near t
are, as much as
years with only one
heat to cold should
cold, get warm as sc
are tired, stop-yo
invalids should select
malady; then settle
to extract all the sw
for them which the
)on
ur li
practicable.
II
hs
as
a loca
down
eets o
world
ung. All
e avoided:
possible,
depends
lity which
, with the
f content-
contains,
r bodies comfortable in every respect,
free from all exciting or unpleasant
ir hearts purified while living, and, if
prepared to meet their Maker.
miles from the mouth of the St. Johu's
established his Huguenot colony, build-
ficatiori on a hill of "mean height,"
aroline, from their sovereign, Charles
ice, now known as St. John's Bluff.
ite of Fort Caroline can be traced with
of accuracy, from the fact of this being
It on the river above its mouth where
e approached by the stream, besides
ly elevated spot where a fort could be
n the St. John's Bluff and the mouth of
LS Fort Caroline was constructed more
hundred years ago, from materials of so
nature-being pine-logs and sand-
mains to be seen at the present day.
umnber-mills on the St. John's are lo-
he estate of Marquis de Talleyrand,
eight miles fiom
Jacksonville.
The busy hum of
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
industry now echoes from th
ogs are being sawed into
houses, not only in Florida, b
Northern citi
ville, receive
for a million
being
work f
in cold
afford
for tho
unwelc
es. Mr. Clark's
1 an order, aftei
feet at one time
a source of revenue t
or the poor, and the re
weather the big fires
a free lodging for bet
se who have no good
ome visitors in almost
shores, where pine-
I
Twen
ty-five
miles from th6
sea,- on the banks of
the St. John's, once stood an insignificant place,
known as Cow Ford, but now the fine, thriving city
of Jacksonville, named in honor of General Andrew
Jackson. This city is the head-center of Florida,
where visitors can come, and stay, with nornospect
of starving, and from which place they can migrate
when and where they please, with ample facilities
furnished them at all times for the furtherance of
their plans.
A combination of singular emotions here seizes
the Northern visitor, after being transported in mid-
winter from his frozen home to a clime where every
thing is fresh and blooming, where the market is
furnished with cabbages, sweet potatoes, lettuce,
turn-ips, green peas, and radishes, just gathered, be-
sides strawberries red as the blush of morn, with
bouquets of rose-buds, upon which still lingers the
morning dew-drop.
Many persons come here with unhappy tempera-
material for making
ut in Boston and other
mill, in East Jackson-
r the big Boston fire,
SThese mills, besides
o the owners, furnish
fuse pieces fuel, while
that consume the slabs
righted travelers; also
houses, and would be
any place.
ie
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ments, to whom peace and contentment in any place,
or under all circumstan
ces, has been deficient, but
always vain
on every ne
pluck; but
never reach
thing with
them const
little to eat!
ly expecting to find
sw object they meet,
,unfortunately, it han
it-when they comm
which they come in
antly exclaimin
too high prices
can please them. T
gust, and their tonl
venom of contempt,
word to say in favor
The unbroken qui
we left Savannah is i
_er touches the Jacks
tuned and jostled or
and carriage-drivers,
ha
wa
S"Too
for thi
aces
are
gues ready to
at every pcrsoi
of Florida.
et which has b
interrupted as
onville wharf.
i every side by
who worry us
ppiness hanging
iting for them to
so high they can
ce abusing every
ntact. We hear
much sand! too
wings Nothing
drawn up in dis-
strike with the
I
If
'4
who has a good
ien with us since
oon as the steam-
We are impor-
black boys, dray
for our baggage,
raising their whips with the imperious movement of
a major-general, and suddenly lowering them at
half-mast when we say, No! Then the officious
hotel-runners, who scream in our ears to patronize
the houses that employ them, until we are on the
verge of desperation, and feel as though the plagues
of Egypt could not have been worse. Most ot
these public. criers are dirty, ragged, and lazy, hav-
ing no legitimate vocation, except what they can
make from visitors, or in drumming for boarding-
houses. This city has fine accommodations, and for
that reason receives more envy than admiration from
other Florida towns. It can furnish more than one
hundred good places of entertainment, among
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
which may be found several colossal hotels, capable
of containing two o
boarding- houses of
where, no doubt, .a
acknowledgment for
ized. Selections can
expended rapidly or
nation of the visitor.
meet with boarding-I
of grumblers must
stand fault-finding as
boy his deserved pun
r three hundred
less pretentious
nearer approxima
value received is
be made where m
slowly, according
Here, as in oth
iouse corn
remember
quietly as
ishment;
guests, also
dimensions,
Ltion to the
oftener real-
oney may be
to the incli-
3r places, we
plainers. This class
that hotel-keepers
a delinquent school-
they are used to it;
they expect it, and would be disappointed if they
did not get it.
The influx of visitors commences sooner some
seasons than others. The first cold blast from the
North sends the feeble invalid South to bask in the.
summer sunshine of a milder atmosphere, and when
spring comes he returns home like the migratory
birds.
Jacksonville and its adjacent towns number a
population of over twelve thousand inhabitants, the
whole area being three miles long and about two
wide. The different names given to this small
space
reality
each
sonvi
Hans
fifty
say th
country looks larger on the map than in
These corporations are distinguished from
er by the names of Jacksonville, East Jack-
Brooklyn, La Villa, Riverside, Springfield,
Town, etc.-each town containing from
fifteen hundred houses. The inhabitants
were laid out into lots and named, with the
expectation of a large increase of persons; conse-
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
quently there are desirable building-spots in these
surveyed sites for growing cities, for sale at all times
upon moderate terms.
Jacksonville makes a display of architectural
skill, in which are seen the improvements of the
nineteenth century. Yards and lawns are laid out
fronting many of the residences, where the beauties
of landscape gardening may be found blending in
harmony with the artistically-arranged walks and
pleasure promenades.
plank and brick, shad
oaks, forming
from which s
perennial, pict'
There are over
the city, where
to worship in c
statistics find t
itual condition
ever, we have r
preached
by ii
The sidewalks are made of
ed and
archways
wings
uresque
twenty
both w
:rowds.
pendant
scene o
church-e
hite and
We are
he inhabitants i
Than has been
io partiality for
itinerant reform
overhung with live-
inviting appearance,
moss, presenting a
f nature's grandeur.
difices in and around
colored people come
happy to state these
n a much better spir-
represented. How-
nany of the doctrines
ers who come here.
We prefer our old
contented while we
when we died. Bul
ualism,
species
ground
South,
souls o
Liberalism,
of moderniz
and receive
are designed
f their foll
orthodox faith, which ma
lived, and carried us to h
t these new isms, such as S
Free-loveism, and every
ed infidelity that is nowga
ng accessions from our S
only to delude and drow
wers in eternal misery.
de us
heaven
pirit-
other
inning
unny
n the
The
Chur
ches here are representatives of various creeds
and beliefs Methodist, Presbyterian,
Episcopalian, and Roman Catholic.
Protestant
l
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
Sabbath dawns in Florida with its recreations
steam
-boat
excursions,
patronized
Northern visitors, as very few appear to bring their
religion when they come South.
Mrs. Harriet Beecher Stowe is here to-day from
her home in Mandarin, for the
purpose
of attending
church.
Dr. Stowe, her husband, accompanies her
as he
preaches.
When they both entered the South-
rn Methodist church a slight rustle was heard in
the congregation,
Mr. and Mrs. Unc
and a few persons left the house.
le Tom were more than a Sabbath
for some of the Jacksonville community.
Har-
riet B. has no resemblance to a perpetrator of dis-
cord or scandal, or one who has swayed the divining-
rod of Abolitionism with
mortalize h
sufficient potency to im-
herself for many coming generations, or
probed
the private
life of a man who, during the
period of his
checkered existence, never carved out
virtue
for his shrine.
three snowy
curls on
each side of her face give her a matronly look, and
her stout-built frame, well covered with flesh,
stantial appearance.
The service was opened by a very
a sub-
long prayer
from Dr.
towe
after which he
preached a purely
orthodox sermon on the subject of godliness.
Harriet had
confidence in
the ability
of her hus-
band; she knew the discourse would be right with-
out her vigilant ey
other sleepers, she
and she went to sleep.
nodded
naturally
Like
her digits
were
concealed beneath kid
no one.
looked
covers, and thrusting at
the picture of content, and
was no doubt dreaming
that far-off,
beautiful
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
country, where those who cre
stir up strife can never enter.
Places of worship have had
colors throughout the entire So
was settled, the negroes being
religion more than the whites.
eate dissensions
an existence for both
uth since the country
naturally inclined to
The African Church
has always been a full-developed institution, attend-
ed with its peculiarities and noisy accompaniments,
where the colored zealots could always give vent to
their religious enthusiasm by howling their emo-
tional feelings among others equally excited. The
preacher usually leads thd singing with his loud,
soul-stirring strains, manifesting much fervor, some-
times improvising a strain or two with his own in-
vention, if the rhyme and tune do not measure
equal.
The following is a correct copy of an original
sermon delivered by a very black Baptist brother
to a Jacksonville colored congregation a short time
previous to the Freedmen's Bank explosion, which
.appears prophetic in regard to that swindling insti-
tution. The. text was, "Lay up for yourselves
treasure in heaven ":
"MY DEAR BREDREN :-De Lord is here to-day,
goin' from de African to de white folks church,
ridin' on a milk-white steed in de air. He knows
all yer
Ef yer
radical
taught
I'm no
hearts, and
hearts are not
change until d
his disciples
w telling you a
vhat
right
ey ar
on d
11 de
you're
,dey m
e made
e lake
way do
thinking' about.
ust all undergo a
good. De Lord
of Jenesis, and
do. I 'spec you
all cum to de house of de Lord just kase yer friends
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
are here. While yer preacher is trying' to permul-
gate de gospel, you is looking' down de street to
see what is coming and den you 're thinking' about
what you will wear to-night when you come to
preaching paying' no attention to me, who is trying'
to save yer souls.
"0 my bredren, dis is a fine new meetin'-house,
but we should all seek a house whose builder and
maker is de great Lord! Labor not for de perishin',
spilin' meat!
Last night was Saturday, and you have spent most
of yer week's wages and earn
de Freedmen Savin' Bank, ai
you'll ever see it any more
in's, dun put de rest in
nd you do n't know as
in dis world! Some-
body may git it, or you may die, and de
leave it. How much did you bring h'
Lord? 0 my bredren, when dem jerc
come you will be sorry you have n't don
de Lord! When dey come, ef you has n'
in' for yer blessed Jesus, den dey wil
'Come, ye blessed, home!'
You must do nothing' wrong ef yer w
up by dat great white throne among
white angels, and be one yerselves.
never cuss or drink any whisky. Paul
thy his son to drink some wine when
stumak-ake. My bredren, do n't think y
when yer not, jest for an excuse to git a
n you will
ere for de
tdic angels
e more for
t dun noth-
11 not say,
rant ter git
dem snow-
You must
told Timo-
he had de
er suffering'
dram. Old
Master in heaven knows when yer sure enuff sick!
Can't fool him about nothing! "
Journalism in Jacksonville is commencing to rest
on a firmet basis than heretofore. The present pOp-
3
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ulation demand more knowledge on the subject of
the country, consequently papers and periodicals
published in the i
sought after. The
listed here, will be
and reliable articles
ucts of
ocratic
correct
were ot
season,
the win
jority.
passed
Florida.
paper, un
pri
her
and
nin
Th
awa
well printed
found lyinl
s8
nciples
organs
since
g side,
eephe
y here,
d, con
gon tl
I
T
w(
W
interest of the State are much
Semi-tropical, a monthly estab-
found to contain both readable
on the climate and various prod-
he Sun and Press is a daily dem-
erving in its efforts to inculcate
mong those in power. There
hose politics was gauged for the
he war until now have been on
the Republicans being in the
meral existence of newspapers
and the morning news, fresh
training the latest telegrams,
e breakfast-table, furnishing a
tent auxiliary to the peace and
household.
SThe privilege of doing as on
be overlooked in Jacksonville.
ever peculiar, appear out of sty
as in some other places, obliged
from the police. Celebrities or
the streets without creating an
Mormon, with his four or fourte<
from Salt Lake City, take room
happiness of
e pleases is not to
No costumes, how-
le, or the wearers,,
to seek protection
r millionaires walk
y sensation. The
in wives, can come
s at the St. James,
enter all the frequented resorts with the same fear
from molestation that a genuine Floridian feels of
being Ku-Kluxed. Any strong-minded market-
woman can don the Bloomer costume, make and
sell sugar, brown as her own bun-colored face, and
peddle vegetables verdant as the idea.whicb prompt-
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ed her to forsake the flowing robes of her fair sis-
ters, and assume the half masculine attire of the
sterner sex, without attracting any more attention
than the lazy loungers in the market-house. The
citizens are so accustomed to sight-seeing that noth-
ing would astonish them but an honest politician.
Unfortunately for all parties concerned; this win-
ter there is a large influx of men in search of em-
ployment, fifty looking for situations with only one
vacancy. It is well to come prepared for all exi-
gencies, and bring a tent to stop in, provided noth-
ing better presents -itself. The woods, waters, and
aS
oyster-bars
ers, from the
have a pecu
ers closely
ticularly if
ning low wi
this genial c
ire free to all; but boarding-house keep-
pressure of surrounding circumstances,
liarly
and
there
ith tl
:lime
persistent way of watching strang-
interviewing them frequently, par-
is a suspicion that funds are run-
iem. Camping in the open air in
is pleasanter than would be imag-
ined by persons not
panied with'more pe
for board-bills with
accustomed
ace of mind
ut money to
to it, and is accom-
than being dunned
pay them.
Pleasant places of resort are springing up in the
vicinity of Jacksonville, which furnish lovely drives
behind some of the teams kept in the city. Mon-
crief Springs, four miles distant, now appears to be
the most popular resort. Here the orange marma-
lade factory may be visited-a recently-developed
branch of industry making use of the wild
oranges which flourish so abuunantly throughout
the State without culture. Many other improve-
ments have been made at this place-bath-houses,
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
bowling-alley, dancing-saloon, and restaurant-all
of which contribute much to the diversion of
strangers.
Visitors always form an idea of the cultivation or
ignorance of a locality by the manner iii which the
dead are cared for, together with the various styles
of monuments, inscriptions upon the tablets, neat-
ness and taste displayed in the surroundings. Upon
this hypothesis a favorable conclusion would, be
formed in
which last
located on
yond the ci
when all I
them were
came for i
regard to the Jacksonville cemetery,
resting-place of its citizens is pleasantly
a slightly elevate piece of ground be-
I
L
S
It was o
inds of peop
much strick4
creation.
why so many persons of
sort to grave-yards for
ment, and the indulgen
n the Sabbath we visited it,
le were present. Some of
en with grief, while others
It is really very surprising
exceedingly low morals re-
the sole purpose of enjoy-
ce of obscene conduct and
conversation. Certainly rude sounds must jar very
inharmoniously upon the feelings of those who come
to visit and weep over the remains of their departed
friends.
Too many invalids, before coming to Florida, wait
until they have already felt the downy flappings
from the wings of the unrelenting destroyer, and
heard the voices from a spirit-land calling them, but
come too late to be benefited and take a new lease
on life. The climate should not be blamed because
the sick will stay away until death claims them.
Those who do not wait derive the same benefit in
remaining that flowers receive from gentle rains in
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes. 45
spring-time-the atmosphere being .a tranquillizer,
the pure sea-breeze on the coast a lotion and tonic
to the lungs. God grant that the genial air which
visits this peninsula may restore the health-seeking
invalids to vigor, strength, and usefulness, that their
presence may again gladden the hearts of those left
at home, now saddened by their absence!
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
CHAPTER
VERY year, during the month of February,
Jacksonville has an exhibit of industries,
from all portions of the State, thus fur-
nishing visitors an opportunity for seeing
specimens of the best Florida products for
emselves, before purchasing. Another advantage
the exchange of experience in growing the same
ings, besides receiving new suggestions in regard
those which may have failed, and, finally, it keeps
up a friendly intercou
enabling new immigl
tions, in the absence
behind-thus promc
community, but thro
The weather--that
rse
ran
of
)tin
with old acquaintances, also
ts to form pleasant associa-
those whom they have left
g harmony, not only in a
ughout the entire State.
important auxiJiary-th
is year
was unpropitious a greater portion of the week.
Nature put on a wild, damp face, which chilled the
ardor of many who had intended coming. How-
ever, the exhibit was very good, in every depart-
ment. All kinds 'of semi-tropical fruits, from the
most perfect pine-apple that has flourished in any
clime, to the sweetest orange, whoso cheek had been
kissed by a golden sunbeam. Pure wines were not
wanting to complete
the conviviality of the occa-
sion, or perfumes distilled from Florida leaves and..
flowers, to waft odors around us, sweet as the mem-
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ory of a first love. The industrious ladies sent their
needle-work, some of which looked as if wrought
by fairy fingers, more than real flesh and blood.
Each succeeding year this organization gathers
strength as the State becomes more populous, and
the necessity of comparing the products from differ-
ent latitudes is made a criterion for those who wish
to examine the local products of a country. In ad-
dition to what has already been done, there is much
room for improvement, which will be accomplished
as the necessities demand, until the Agricultural
Florida Fair shall be numbered among the perma-
nent institutions, where the ingathering harvest of
tropical fruits every year will be a fixed fact, where
immense crowds shall come to look, wondering at
its magnitude, and silent with admiration before the
grandeur of its extensive DroDortions. The future
4-,
of the Fair, like that of the State, has not been at-
fained.
Another source of entertainment with many who
come here is .yachting. The white-winged little
crafts are constantly flitting about the Jacksonville
wharves, like summer songsters in a clear sky. The
boats, in reality, have become quite indispensable to
the excitement of
least water, and m
wind can sail on a
most in demand.
United States Tre
which he takes pi
visitors. Those that draw the
Lake the best time, or with a fair
heavy dew, are the class of craft
General Spinner, formerly of the
asury, has a fine little yacht, in
easure-excursions, looking much
happier than when the responsibility of a nation's
finances rested on his movements.
U L
Our
but its
fertile
The
wharf
happy
craft.
Coxett
never
been s
Dictat
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
I T 1 1 7
-_ -
stay in JacKsonville nas been very pleasant;
surroundings furnish a poor criterion for the
lands lying in other parts of the State.
ocean steamer Dictator is waiting at the
for passengers, and we will be among the
number to embark on this reliable-running
Her former efficient commander, Captain
er, has gone where bars or rough waters
imperil his safety. However, his place has
supplied by a skillful seaman; thus placing the
or at the head of the list for palatial accom-
modations and attentive
The St. John's to-day
kind of sei
sun shines
the air and
River of I
glide on it:
unrivaled p
leave an ix
hovering r
The firs
sonville, i
winter ret
which poii
to furnish
signed for
mains. V
same liber
connected
sent herse
ones open
mi-transparen
with a nimbu
sky. Imagir
life more
s peaceful
purity float
definable
ear.
bea
bor
ov'
ide
officers.
appears overspread with a
t mist, through which the
s of golden sheen, that fills
nation could not paint the
utiful. How smoothly we
som, while fleecy clouds of
er us like airy forms, which
a of an invisible presence
t noticeable landing, after we leave Jack-
s Mandarin, fifteen miles distant-the
didence of Ha
it many stop, a
a gratuitous
the benefit o
6rriet
is thoi
exhil
f those
Beeche
ugh she
)ition o
se who
r Stowe- at
was expected
f herself, de-
walk her do-
visitors come here thinking they are at the
ty to inspect her person as though she were
with a menagerie, and obligated to pre-
lf for their entertainment. Very curious
her window-blinds if they cannot see her
S
[]
1
?
L
I
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
in any other way.
These impudent violations of
etiquette do not meet with her approval, while those
indulging in them must take the consequences, re-
membering that although patience is a virtue, it is
not always exercised. \
Mandarin is quite unpretentious in its general
appearance. The inhabitants raise fine sweet or-
anges and other produce, which they bring down in
little boats to market; this is the most perceptible
stir made by any of its residents. Like many other
localities in the
events, extending
remembered by sc
lowing is dated D
State, historic records of tragic
back to the Indian wars, are yet
,me of its old citizens. The fol-
1cember 25, 1841:
"For some time the settlers in this section of the
country had been lulled into apparent security, un-
der the belief that there was no danger to be appre-
hended, since the notorious Wild Cat and his party
were shipped to theWest.
"On Monday a band of twenty-one Indians ap-
proached the settlement of Mandarin, when, after
capturing an old negro belonging to Mr. William
Hartley, lay by until night, when they attacked the
house of Mr. H., who was absent hunting. They
murdered his wife and child, also Messrs. Domingo
Acosta and William Molpus.
These
savages, after
committing t
applied the
plantations o
the inmates
The Indians
released the
3*.
his foul deed, plundered the house and
torch. They then proceeded to the
f Nathan and George Hartley, and as
had fled, they destroyed their homes.
camped near until morning, when they
old negro, and fled. Captain Hurry, of
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
Mandarin, and a few other citizens, followed their
trail the next day for some distance, but finally lost
it."
The settlers then gave expression to their feelings:
"We, the citizen
ly urge upon Col.
this vicinity a for
our citizen
entitled.
doned pi
purpose;
can be n
hunted o
ing in th
tected sel
day we
been ragi
ful duty
blood of
ns of Mandarin, cannot too strong-
Worth
ce suffi
ns that protect
Many of them
aces, others ma
but their plans
o possible secu:
ut of Florida;
e South, they ar
ttlements
have wit
in ou
record
citizen
. Thi
nessed'
r territ
the propriety
ciently strong
on to which t
had returned
king prepare
are now frusti
rity until the
while our troo
re murdering
s is the seven
since the In
ory, it being
it is far from b
ns is still warm
of keeping in
St
he'
to
tio
rat
las
ps
in
th
o render to
y are justly
their aban-
ns for that
ed, as there
it Indian is
are operat-
our unpro-
Christmas-
dian war has
now our pain-
ing ended. The
upon the hillocks
and turfs of Florida, and the wily savage roams un-
dismayed, with his thirst for the blood of fresh vic-
tins unquenched."
One noticeable feature in traveling through Florida
is the fanciful names we hear given to unimportant
places-th
the towns
them with
sounding
Magnolia,
quite excl
in general
ie name being the most prominent point,
so diminutive that it is difficult to locate
Sany degree of certainty. The first high-
ones, after Mandarin, are Hibernia and
both little stopping-places, considered
usive in their associations with the world
and themselves in particular, where guests
are so well contented they think the fabled land for
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
which
Spaniards
searched
so long is at last
reached.
Green Cove Mineral Springs, thirty miles above
Jacksonville, is a noted resort for those afflicted with
rheumatism-the temperature of the water always
being warm enough in winter to stimulate the sys-
ter and give relief to pain
are also greatly mitigated.
. Many other diseases
Very happy faces come
down here to look at us, which is, no doubt, attrib-
table
to the exhilarating influences of the water
and fine fare at the hotels.
Picolata, forty-five miles above Jacksonville, on
the east bank of the river, is more famous-for what
it has been than for what it is now, its former great-
ness having
guide us.
g departed, leaving scarcely a shadow to
was formerly the stage
terminus
from St. Augustine, eighteen miles distant, and of
some
importance
as a commercial
point,
weekly stage running to Tallahassee and St. Mark'
During
g Spanish
times this
place
was called
Fort
Picolata, where once stood a very ancient fortress.
The following is a description
of its dimensions,
written over one hundred years since: "It was con-
structed
with a high wall, without bastions, about
breast-high on the inside, with loop-holes, and sur-
rounded by a deep ditch.
The upper story was open
on each side, with battlements supporting a cupola,
or roof.
These parapets
were formerly mounted
with eight four-pounders-two on each side.
works
lime.
were
built with hewn
stone,
cemented
The shell-rock from which it was constructed
was cut out of quarries on St. Anastasia Island, op-
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
posite St. Augustine." TI
to guard the passage of the
munication with St. Mark'
As w
we will
Putnam
itants.
the s
tions
e propose d
now proceed
, with a pop
The land oi
being mixe
re for visit
lescribi
d to Pi
ulation
n which
d wi
irs a
stay all winter, in pre
The Putnam House is i
neat, and the whole pre
now February, and the
lettuce, radishes, Irish
vegetables, from which
tables groan with good
tries to make evervbod
of the servant
past, when tl
mitted to ro
beasts, seekil
eat, or steal,
very industry
been settled
he object of this f
river, and preser
s and Pensacola.
ig Tocoi on our
ilatka, the county
of fifteen hundred
h the
th shells.
re fine, wh
ference tc
veil kept, 1
mises in pi
garden ii
potatoes,
the ho
things
.v wele
its reminds us of
ley were trained
am, as many d4
ng something wh
ort was
ve com-
return,
-seat of
inhab-
town stands is high,
The accommoda-
are many come to
any other place.
>eing refreshingly
rfect order. It is
producing peas,
and many other
use is supp
, while the
ome. The
the palmy
for use, an
o now, liok
ich they ca
lied. The
proprietor
politeness
days of the
id not per-
e untamed
.n kill and
and trade for money. The citizens are
ous and law-abiding-the town having
thirty years-and never had a county
jail until
provement
equal to a
buildings,
and many
rec
:s C
ny
we
b(
ently; but,
if the age, tl
emergency.
notice a cou
)arding-hous
tries are a moss-factory,
steam grist-mill and saw
in keeping with
the im-
ley have one now which is
Among the various other
rt-house, several churches,
Mes. The principal indus-
sea-island cotton-gin, a
-mill, also a guano fish-oil
factory.
Shad-fishin
g is profitable here in Marcb,
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
when large quantities are shipped.
One paper-the
Pilatka Herald-publishes all the news. The
is called "Alligator" Pratt-he having obtain
title by giving descriptions of the immense
bers of alligators which frequented the streak
recorded by the early settlers, but bringing it
to the
true,
killed
office,
like b
oldest
n
present time, as a visible fact, which
or ever will be again, while so many are
editor
ed his
num-
ms, as
down
is not
being
every year. When we visited the Herald
two lads, sons of the proprietor, were working
usy.bees, the youngest being thirteen, and the
seventeen, years of age. They said their fa-
their was in Tallahassee, and they were "getting out
the paper." Such enterprise is commendable.
Many of the tropical fruits are cultivated .here,
some of which grow to perfection, while others are
experimental, but at present very flourishing. Ripe
strawberries, luscious and sweet, are now ready for
market, on Col. Hart's place-the fertilizer used
being river-muck, which is inexhaustible. The
weather is milder here than in other localities of the
same latitude, not on the river, which is accounted
for by the waters of the St. John's flowing from a
milder clime, thus checking any proposed invasion
from Jack Frost.
A very amusing circumstance happened here this'
morning. The Catholic bishop from St. Augustine
being in town, according to his usual custom, pro-
posed to have early morning mass.
On repairing
the church, and finding none of his members in at-
tendance, and not being inclined to say mass for the
repose of their souls and bodies while in bed, as a
Petals Plucked from
Sunny Climes.
gentle reminder of their duties he commenced pu
ing vigorously at the bell-rope.
The jingling at so
early an hour caused a consternation among
the in-
habitants, who supposed it to be a fire-alarm, and,
thinking the safety
of their dwellings in
0
danger
rushed from every street in hasty-made toilets, look-
ing for the conflagration.
However, on quiet being
restored, the affair was considered a good joke.
Pilatka is the head of navigation for ocean steam-
ers, the river narrowing so rapidly soon after leaving
here that they cannot run any farther.
Parties go-
ing up the Ocklawaha must always stop at this point,
as steamers made for no other purpose leave here
daily.
No Florida tour would be complete without
a trip up this narrow, tortuous stream, which turns
its course so often the wonder is that it does not for-
get which way it was going
to run.
The name of our boat is Okahumkee, which bears
a slight resemblance to the pictures designed to rep-
resant Noah's ark, but only in shape, not in size or
age. On account of the obstacles she has to meet
in navigation, there can be no surplus work or em-
bellishment on her;
but she is clean
and comforta-
ble, the fare good as on any river-craft.
The pro-
polling power is at the stern, and sends the steamer
ahead at
rate of
eight
miles an
hour.
owner, Col. Hart, is a man of undaunted energies,
whose pioneer movements in navigating this river
will ever remain a monument worthy of emulation.
Twenty-five miles above Pilatka the Ocklawaba
comes in, which name signifies boggy river, or tur-
gid water, so called by the Indians.
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.'
CHAPTER
HILE in Florida, if tourists wish for a va-
riety, let them travel up the n:
it., I i *
course
4- lawaha
other rivers in th
take us over the
we enter its dark
ruption, when ou
quickly, as a Flor
The Ocklawah
much-admired St
fifty to seventy-fi
navigable all sea
lined with forests
course can only I
of its steamers.
sional bluff, accol
not so unvaried
river runs through
ing of sweet-gun
which hangs a di
only visited by 2
this pendant grove
wandering
o0 that peculiar stream, the Ock-
SThere is no signaling here, as at
e State, for fossilized Spaniards to
bars. After describing a triangle,
Sweaters without obstacle or inter-
r steamer glides along easily, if not
ida sun behind the horizon.
a is the largest tributary of the
. John's River. It is only from
ve feet in width at any point, and
sons of the year. Its banks are
sts primeval," while its crooked
)e traced by a seat upon the decks
The banks are low, with an occa-
mpanied by a wildness of scenery
as to be
h heavily*
i, sweet-
rapery of
sephyr b
7th appeal
an
gn~ic, preparing a revelati
come monotot
v-timbered lan
bay, and live
long moss so
reezes. The
Irs like the mo
on from the sec
-oak,
dens
sway
The
onsist-
from
e it is
ing of
vements
of
rcret abod es
of wood-nymphs, or a debut from the weird form of
some dark-eyed Indian maid.
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
The cypress-trees grow here to the height of two
hundred feet, some of th
circumference,
From this kind
which excel in
The trees on
thicket, thus o
ing country as
miles distant.
resorts to indu
which sing so
wounded, their
waters-the las
and eight
of timber
durabili
the bar
bscurins
effectut
It is 1
lge his
~-- --
ngs
he
t th
ing pinion, signal
no one to pity or
heard on every sid
with the exciting r
gator! Sight him
this seems to be g
am being twenty-four in
feet through at the base.
pars for vessels are made,
,ny other in use.
are set closely as a cane
1 view of the surround-
as if it were a thousand
his point
pensity fo
or joy as we p
Ipless bodies fall
at is seen of them
ng their sinking
rescue. The clic
e from the hands
mark: "0 there
quick! Kill hin
great snort for the
A
the sportsman
r killing birds,
ass; but when
into the turbid
being a flutter-
condition, with
k of
of
is a
i!"
hun
the rifle is
passengers,
another alli-
Although
tsman, it is
not always death to the game.
As we approach the source of the river the scen-
ery is constantly changing, lil
and although it is mid-winu
lined with flowers in full 1
Frost was not abroad with hi
had killed many of their cot
buried them under his whit
icy fetters.
Among the most conspicu
now is the aster, climbing
forming bowers filled with
woody stems, sending forth
e a kaleidoscopic view,
xr the river-banks are
oom, as though Jack
withering breath, and
panions far away, and
e covering
bound with
ous plants which we see
twenty or thirty feet,
blooms, supported by
their fragrance to glad-
w-- w
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
mn the senses of those who love perfumery
nature's laboratory.
The water-lily, enthroned on her emerald
ts like a queen, spreading a snowy crown in
iet corner of the stream; while the air-plants
more ambitious turn, are clinging to the
ith their pink petals bursting into bloom, a
ild oranges and scarlet berries combined fo
panorama which creates new-born emotions oi
piness in the m
ties and retain
Captain Ric
Okahumkee, is
itants on this
makes all their
The men expec
they need, front
From this port
island cotton,
eggs. These al
family supplies.
young ladies, b
made
seat,
every
,with
trees,
Ls the
)rm a
hap-
iinds of all who look on their beau-
in imagination their charms.
e, who has charge of the steamer
the alpha and omega of the inhab-
river. He supplies all their wants,
contracts, and sells all their produce.
t him to furnish them with whatever
Sa sugar-mill to a plug of tobacco.
tion of the country are shipped sea-
noss, oranges, vanilla, chickens, and
re sold in Jacksonville to obtain their
The Captain goes shopping for the
uys their pin-backs, tilters, face-pow--
der, and sometimes snuff-for their mothers only!
For these numerous services he rarely ever receives
any thing
thin, fed o
Orange
of the riv
formerly a
eral prop
witnessed
band and
but a smile!
in such intangi
Springs, thirty
er, is our first
resort for inva
erties contained
an affectionat
wife. The la
No wonder the man looks
ble substance!
-five miles from the mouth
landing-place. This was
lids, on account of the min-
d in the water. Here we
e meeting between a hus-
ly had just returned from
w
p
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
Jacksonville on the steamer.
shore, and saw her husband
threw her arms around his nec
of the experienced passengers s
she thought of all that old fat b
to eat after feasting so high in
A log is something which ou
derstand. It leaps over at a sin
crashing against the large limb
Ahen she stepped on
waiting for her, she
k and cried. Some
aid she wept because
acon she would have
Jacksonville.
r boat appears to un-
gle bound, then goes
s. which sounds like
the rattling of musketry, or crashing of a cyclone.
We met a lady on board who, since her last visit
up the Ocklawaha, has been deprived of her hearing.
Not aware of the great change through which she
had passed, she quietly inquired if the obstructions
had not all been removed from the river. The souid,
then, of big limbs rasping across the boat, which had
been crushed by
bled thunder. T
suddenly to gd f<
all busy looking
one asserted that
ments, so far as ]as
is bliss, 'tis folly
On this river is
You can see the
lands; and clever
pear to come froi
being on a batean
banks, where are
manity so thin a
business in trying
coming in contact with it, resem-
'he Captain changed his seat very
)rward, while the passengers were
after birds and alligators; but no
navigation was without impedi-
st heard from. "Where ignorance
to be wise."
the home of the genuine crackers.
m come to the steamer when it
r people they are,- loo. They ap-
m nowhere, their first appearance
u, or little platform, by the river-
seen standing specimens of hu-
mosquito would be doing
a bad
g to obtain sustenance from their
bloodless bodies.
1
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes..
Hoping that the mind of the public maybe re-
ieved of the impression that a kind of hybrid bipeds
circulate through
the South
entirely unknown in
other localities, called
PLEASURE-RIDING IN
crackers, I herewith append
A CRACKER CART.
a description of the Northern crackers, in connec-
tion with our Southern product, taken from my own
observation.
From
the Alleghany Mountains of Pennsylvania
~-~,E~,Vt~;z~; --~-C.
;-- --
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
to the sand
of the genu
possessing t
the North "
ers." In th
creatures ru
they prefer
and cities.
tion of the
toes,
togeth
consumed 1
them during
j* 1
attention t
working ou
neighbors tl
s of Florida there exists a certain class
s homo, defined by different names, but
raits of character nearly allied, called in
the lower class," in the South "crack-
e Northern States these poor, uneducated
minate without restraint. The localities
are removed from the principal towns
During the summer they spend a por-
season in raising a little corn and pota-
er with other "garden sass," which is
by their numerous families to sustain
g the cold winter weather. The little
his crop receives is when they are not
it as the hired help, in assisting their
through hayin' and harvestin', or diggin'
taters." Many of them never "hire out,"
sist entirely by hunting, fishing, or gate
ries, for which pursuits their wild
settled habits well adapt them.
piscatorial profession, studying t
finny tribe during their various
with their times of ascending an
streams. Sometimes the city fo
spend a few days with tent and r
ment these self-constituted sove
regard as a direct innovation of t
the supposed intruders escape
being burned, or their clothes sto
when they are absent, it may be
r
1
r
natures
but sub-
ring ber-
and un-
Phey excel in the
he habits of the
stages, together
d descending the
lIks come out to
eels, which move-
eigns of the soil
leir rights; and if
withoutt their tent
en, during the day
regarded as a fort-
unate circumstance. Many of these "lower class"
specimens of humanity cannot read or write, while
those who can do not often imbibe orthodox opin-
t
I
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ions in their religious belief, but embrace theories
mapped out by New
they try to make an
wint
doors
wild
with
item
live t
sides
of co
wild
ir days when t
0." If a thaw cc
game, which is
them, as most c
for winter foo<
olerably well du
England fanatics, upon which
improvement during the cold
;hey cannot be stirring out
mes they hunt deer and other
bartered for groceries. Hogs
either people, are an important
1. These animals manage to
ring the summer on rrass. be-
'-I
(-
occasionally breaking into a neighbor's field
rn or potatoes, and fattening in the autumn on
mast, which is plentiful.
This
being s
calf, or
family
scruple
cannot
olent ii
souls, i
Never
is fed f
nor a d
without
"lower class
have never been credited with
trictly honest, and frequently a
turkey, makes an important ad
larder, which is ea
s, no questions be
be classed among tl
impulse
ever for
t is soon frozen
a weary wander
rom their table,
Irop of milk giv
t collection on
ten by all
ing asked.
ieir virtues.
its way into
Sfor want ol
rests upon tl
ess pay is ex]
stray sheep,
edition to the
without any
Generosity
If a benev-
their stingy
f sustenance.
heir beds, or
pected for it,
to pleasure-excursionists
very. Their clothes are
made mostly of
the winters so
tected. The
then color it b
wool,
severe
'wimm
lue or
it bein
they are
en folks
red. and
g a home product, and
Obliged to be pro-
i" weave the cloth,
when the garments
are made they are worn through all seasons--
winter to keep out the cold, and in summer t
heat. There is no changing of raiment, nor a
record kept of the time each garment is worn,
-in
he
ny
it
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
being on
sary, and
common
powers o
culiar tw
was the d
though it
ful" is t
ring chan
good!"
women i
large qua
disease, (
been det
ly removed when
a Joseph's coat a
sight.
f articu
rang
lesig
was
heir
iges
Con
s a
ntiti
r to
ermined
They
ation,
ough
the o
led "
rgai
keo
adj
thr
exp
ff i
1
I
principal
at all tim<
iversation
difficult
es of snu
a vacuum
patching becomes neces-
mong them is not an un-
not remarkable for their
; communicate.with a pe-
ir noses, as though that
. Cow is pronounced as
w;" how,"heow." "Aw-
ective, upon which they
"Awful mean !" "Awful
oughh the nose for the old
eriment, as they deposit
n that organ, whether for
in their crania, has never
,but it is really a most disgusting
filthy
'he ab
crack
e lost
South
practice to witness.
ove is a correct description of the North-
ers, of which some scribblers seem to
sight in their unfeeling efforts to abuse
,and impress the world with the idea that
crackers and poo
origin, and only
the outgrowth of
That indigenous
crackers receive
In South Carolil
called "Poor Buc
pers," or "Crack
supposed to be na
r whites a
found in t
a slave ol
s class of
names ace
na and S
kra," and
re entirely
hat locality
igarchy.
persons call
ording to t
outh Georg
in Florida
of Southern
, they being
ed Southern
aeir locality.
iia they are
"Sand Lap-
:ers." The Florida crackers are
med from the facility with which
they eat corn, it being their chief article of diet,
while some few contract the habit of dirt-eating,
and have been named "Sand Lappers."
The true derivation of cracker, notwithstanding
,
w-
]
'
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
all the evidence given before on the
original word for Quaker,
cuacero, first changed into
subject, is the
which in Spanish is
cuaker by the English,
and again into cra
that neither cattle
any thing to do wil
These crackers h
ing twice in a yes
indeed, no earthly
ined freer from car
the oi
tidiou
does
subse
only
them.
notch
ne they
is about
hot requ
rye thei
want a
Thei
ed to fit
Lcker.
From
-whips nor
th the namil
tave few local
ir does not
state of
e and le
lead. When
their habitat
ire close quar
r purpose. Li
roosting-place
r houses are
at the corners
tnils we may learn
:orn-cracking had
; of these people.
attachments; mov-
convenience them;
existence can be imag-
ss fraught with toil than
settled, they are not fas-
ons, as the mild climate
ters; a good shelter will
ike birds of the air. they
e when
mostly
the fl
times of earth, but usually boards
These tenements are scoured once
a
night
made
)ors bei
sawed
Week,
beds are sunned, and every thing turned ou
men are not always dressed ia store-clothes
a corresponding outfit, but usually country
cotton home-spun. The genuine cracker
broad-brimmed hat, braided from palmetto, a
jean coat and breeches, a deer-skin vest with
Sove
overtakes
logs,
often-
hand.
en the
The
" with
y-made
wears a
brown-
the fur
left on, anc
or shoes.
and whiske
shrink with
growth obe
which were
Sa pair of stout, useful cow-skin
He supports a very unkempt mu
rs, before which a Broadway dandy
the most intense disgust. Thj n
cures a mouth well filled with
nature's gift, and the handiwork
boots,
stache
would
natural
teeth,
of no
dentist-from whence is kept a constant ejecting of
1
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
tobacco-juice. He always has a body-guard of dogs
whenever and wherever you find him, the number
varying according to his condition in life-the
poorer t
These a
ciency i
bling lif
Around
shot an
named
to flick
a range
These p
families
DUDDies
,h
n
n
e
e man, the larger the number of canines.
iimals are very thin, whether from a defi-
their master's
they lead, has
his master's
d powder-horn,
" Sure-fire," wh
!r, warranted to
of two hundr
people, like the
, which require
or kittens. W
curl up in almost any
larder, or the constant ram-
not been exactly determined.
neck is suspended a flask of
while in his hands is a rifle
ich he says was never known
bring down any game within
ed yards, running or flying.
patriarchs of old, have large
about the same attention as
hen night comes the children
corner to sleep, and at dawn
of day, when the early songsters
from the grass and flowers, they
berries, or watching
birds
b
dash the dew
are out hunti
building their
-drops
ng for
nests,
that they
enterprise
The cra
which put
ing a mu
thing the
though th
St. James
yet quant
are always
number c
nay know where to find the eggs, in which
they are experts.
cker has a hearty welcome for the stranger,
s the blush of contempt upon those claim-
ch higher degree of civilization. Every
house contains is free to visitors. Al-
e bill of fare bears no resemblance to the
Hotel or Carleton House in Jacksonville,
ity will make up for quality. Chickens
killed for company, without counting the
Christmas
holidays
have
seen.
Your plate is piled with sweet potatoes and corn-
dodger bread, or ash-cake, to be washed down with
)f
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ng co
d for
ntive
wild
the comp
little eve
ffee, which they always manage to I
special occasions. The old folks
; but where are the children ? Ru
rabbits. They are out taking a
any. Watch, and you will soon see
s looking through the cracks, or
around the corners. These crackers
communicative class of persons, always
I1
keep on
ire very
n away
view-of
curious
slipping
a very
11 of in-
formation pertainir
talk as a freshly-
clock to keep tim
called "dad," the
speaks of his wife
says "old man,"
called girls and bo
people in the Sout
ig to ]
wound
e. Th
mother
as "tl
while
lys.
h, h
Florida, and as ready to
, well-regulated Yankee
e father of the family is
"mam." The husband
ie old woman," the wife
the children are always
Women among no class of
however poor, are ever called
" heifers," as one Northern wAter has represented,
unless by their conduct they are lost both to virtue
and shame. The cracker exercises his prudential
care by always keeping hogs. It is the main sup-
port of the family; and these razor-backed tourists
are constantly going on voyages of discovery, either
by land or sea. They often excite the sympathies
of visitors on account of their thin bodies, but they
possess more self-sustaining qualities than those who
are sorry for them, showing what hogs can do as
well as people, when thrown on their own resources.
The sea-shore swine, which receive sustenance from
the beach, can feed twice in twenty-four hours, when
the tide recedes, and no depleted stores tell the
amount of fish, oysters, and other marine morsels,
which are deposited within their bony frames.
4
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
The above is a true statement in regard to the'
Southern crackers, which excites the commisera-
tion of so many people who know nothing about
, and would
, n
reserving their conce
ing, "Where little is
Civilization has con
the Ocklawaha, and
which never tires in
prints here. These r
from the various landi
as it advances through
to effect a landing,
against the shore, wh
the Captain, with as
ship from England hi
"Make fast!" This'
lo
rn
gi
ubt, be greatly benefited by
for themselves, remember-
ven, little is required."
1 1
* I,
amencea maming its mark on
the march of improvement,
its efforts, is leaving its foot-
lew developments are visible
ngs which the steamer makes,
i the rapid current. In order
the bow of the craft is run
en the command is given by
much authority as though a
ad arrived on forei
order
is executed bj
gn shore
Putting
hawser an inch in circumference around a stake
driven in the ground. Here are two cords of wood
waiting to be loaded, called in cracker vernacular
" light-wood," filled with turpentine, from which the
article of comm
of this cormodi
portunity to disp
sketches" comm'
Nearly all the
taking a walk on
erce is
ty is o
ose of
ence "
passe
shore
manufactured.
n shore, waiti
his pile when
wooding-up."
ngers improve
to see the cou
The vender
ng for an op-
"the charcoal
the time by
ntry while the
hands on board are working. A countryman is
trying. to sell a bear-skin to some of the crowd.
These Floridians always ask more than they can get,
to see what visitors will stand.
The sun has set, and we are now entering upon a
them
0
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
night of darkness, in a wilderness of leaves and
blooms, on the water, near thickets where the hun-
gry wolf lurks for his prey, and the bear- growls
from his covert of security; where the wild deer nips
the grass and feasts from herbage green, frequenting
haunts where the hounds lose their trail, and the
of the
ht blaze
frame
liar of
'ugh the
by tree
civil
,mad
on th
fire "
wilde
s who
overlap each oth
that only a glimn
seen through the s
our flame-lit craft
ized hunter has never trod. A
e from light-wood knots, is placed
e bow of our craft, and, like the
which preceded the Israelites
!rness, is our guide. Here, encir-
se long limbs
er so thickly
ier of dawn is
mall openings,
winds up the
serpentine stream, and our night-
fires send out a glare which il-
lumines the darkness far as the
eye can see, while on the boughs
above our heads in silence sits
WHO
the owl, with only an occasional "Who!" to let us
know vitality is not entirely extinct in these wilds.
The queer, dusky-looking figures, moving about
with their pine torches, flashing through the dark-
ness, and yelling at each other in cases of emer-
gency, when our boat appears trying to climb a tree,
remind us of the historic plutonian regions. As
we glide along, our pathway is marked by volumes
of pyrotechnic showers more numerous and brilliant
than can be conceived, which burst from the smoke-
stacks, and fall on the water before they are extin-
68 Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
guished. Phantom-like we move, while weird forms
retire before us, but still clinging to our boat as the
connecting-link between civilized and savage life, a
thoughtless move from it in any direction being a
dangerous and hazardous experiment.
Every landing has its name, kept up as a mark of
distinction by the boatmen and settlers, but unknown
to history.
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
4*
CHAPTER
ANY incidents of travel are
different savants, and those
pretensions, who circulate 1
country for various purposes;
lowing stands without a paral
rt
of
:hr
br
lel
nine fact, so far as last heard from, in th
Florida.
As we entered the famous Silver Spl
morning, about 4 o'clock, on the steamer
kee, another boat that had arrived sligh
vance of us was anchored very near our
place. Upon the bows of each were burn
light-wood fires, the reflection on the wa
only comparable to the magic movement
chantment, while the shore, encircled wit
est-trees, embowered the whole in a sylva
where Diana herself might repose, and
for the more exciting
One of our gentlemen-p;
denly aroused from his
blind for the purpose of
outside world. At the
morning breeze fanned
make a most convulsive
too much for his artifi
elated by
humbler
ough the
ut the fol-
as a gen-
e wilds of
rings this
Okahum-
tly in ad-
stopping-
lin
,te
its
h
,n
re
be
g large
r being
of en-
tall for-
retreat,
1freshed
amusements of the chase.
passengers, upon being sud-
sound slumbers, opened his
taking observations of the
same instant a very fresh
his brow, causing him to
sneeze-which effort being
cial superstructure, all his
upper teeth were ejected from his mouth into the
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
water.
Upon the return'of his wandering thoughts
from the vision
apprised of the
be met and fa
for administer
mastication of
dawned, sympi
with words of
experts in the
fluid, without
uisition. The'
turned without
spliced, armed
of beauty b
stern realiti
ced without
ng to his cor
Florida bee:
before him, he was again
es which would have to
the valuable accessories
fort-particularly in the
f- teeth.
ithetic friends gathered
condo
art
being
y all
it the
with
with which they rak
toothless
while ho
zero, and
only one
the truan
end of a
amid the
joy of thi
his proffe
ment ma
success.
'lence, while the s
)f descending intc
drowned, were ca]
rent down repeated
lost treasures.
instruments of var
ed and dredged fo
Large rewards
pe in the heart of t
expectation stimuli
artisan, who finally
t grinders by fasten
forty-foot pole, an
congratulations of
e owner, who gave
r
d
;he owner
ated the r
succeeded
ing
d b
frie
the
Soon as day
around him
services of all
the watery
lied into req-
idly, and re-
Poles were
ious designs,
r hours, with
vere offered,
Ssunk below
movements of
Sin securing
a tin scoop on the
ringing them'out,
nds and the great
persevering negro
ed reward-ten dollars. The first invest-
e by the colored individual was two bits
for tobacco, which he could chew without the aid of
foreign intervention.
The most noticeable point on the Ocklawaha is
the Mirror of Diana, or Silver Springs, which is the
source of this river, where, from the depths of some
invisible cavern, boils up a large body of water,
gathered from far away, forming a succession of
springs nine miles in length, with an average depth
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
of thirty-five feet.
terranean depths of
streams pure as an a
bright an
light. Th
who trave
was to tl
rounded
drafts or p
Architect
since, the
d
>is
St
ie
by
lai
of
beautiful
spring
through
land o
trees,
ns of arc
These waters rise from the sub-
the earth, with their crystal
ngel, clear as the noonday sun,
1 as the radiance of heavenly
is to the campers and movers
the country what Jacob's Well
f Samaria. It is entirely sur-
forming columns unknown to
tectural skill, except the great
More than thirty years
the universe.
land around this spring was entered as a
homestead by a relative of that memorable martyr,
John Rogers. Mr. Rogers, with w
pleasure of conversing, said its pre
was the same as whe
ing so Iclear that loo
the sky above it:
dept
The
lies
ices
size
cone
hs, lo
basin
in led
of wh
;but
ealed,
which
lined w
on th
dart o
hook,
can lure
1
I.
n ne nrst saw
king down in
he could see i
way he would
7ith a grayish 1
e bottom, from
ut patriarchal
however delici
them to bite.
hom we had the
!sent appearance
it-the water be-
it appeared like
no difference in
d, up or down.
imestone, which
under the crev-
fi
at
sionally captured with lines by striki
tom was practiced by the Indians, "
poised they threw the spear." At n
sh c
ely
The
ng,
whi
iidd
Imn
aited
are
rhich
e gra
v the
iense
and
occa-
Scus-
tceful
s un-
beams kiss the placid surface of this crystal fluid,
while they are reflected by the transparent waters,
which tremble and shimmer with resplendent glo-
ries.
A sunset viewed from this Mirror of Diana fills
the imagination with emotions of grandeur, to be
71
1
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
remembered as past joys, where descriptive powers
are inadequate to the task.
The parting rays of old
Sol shine upon the vast forest of tall trees, draped
with Spanish moss suspended in mid-air, resembling
the fragile texture of some fairy realm more than a
tangible substance; or when twilight deepens, then
the stars raise their
eyelids, and peep into the depths
of this land-locked mystery, which reveals nothing
of its past history,
The following le
age, or origin.
igend, which appeared
'd
in the Na-
tional
Repository,
seems
so much
in keeping with
what might have been a reality, we have copied it
for the
benefit of those who are fond of legendary
tales:
"A long time
when
Okahumkee was king
over the tribes of Indians who roamed and hunted
around the South-western lakes, an event occurred
which filled
many
hearts with sorrow.
The king
had a daughter named Weenonah, whose rare beau-
ty was the pride of the old man's life.
Weenonah
exceedingly graceful and symmetrical in figure.
Her face was of an
olive complexion,
tinged with
light brown, her skin finely transparent, exquisitely
clear.
It was easy to
see the red blood beneath the
surface, and often it blushed in response to the im-
warm and generous
nature.
Her eye
was the crystal
of the soul-clear and liquid,
flashing and defiant, according to her mood.
the hair was the glory of the woman.
raven
Dark as the
's plume, but shot with gleams of sacred ar-
rows, the
large masses, when free, rolled in tresses of
C)/
rich abundance.
The silken drapery of that splendid
was
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
hair fell about
from the clot
Weenonah wa
e bra
her
smo
Coveted
Lch ot
ves-ar
by the
ked ar
I prize,
her as t
ble gift, whe
her father.
loved Chuleol
dwelt among
"The pers
scribed by th
no other that
style
some,
the vei
that b4
tribes,
suitable
well-de
ry ideal
between
there
n
B
tI
13
her
ud-l
s, in
id m
red
ound
whi
o wl
her
tut t
h, tl
'like some
and's rare
truth, a fo
any were th
men, when
1 the even
le chiefs ar
10
h
he
e
the wil
onal ap
ie hiero
repof
the
lope
royal cloak dropped
and radiant loom.'
rest-belle-an idol of
e eloquent things said
they rested at noon,
ng fires. She was a
id warriors vied with
should present the most valua-
and was sought from the king,
daughter had already seen and
renowned chief of a tribe which
d groves near Silver Springs.
pearance of Chuleotah, as de-
glyphics of that day, could be
assessing. He was arrayed in a
dignity of a chief. Bold, hand-
1, he was to an Indian maiden
manly vigo
e old chief
,d long be(
were enemies. When 0
Chuleotah had gained the
child, he at once declared
A war of passion was soon
without much reward to
nor had m
Chuleotah
Weenonah
"Dead!
she return
her people
the drippil
4*
ir. Butit was a sad
and the young, and
n a deadly feud.
kahumkee learned
affections of his be
his purpose of rev
Opened, and carri
truth
their
They
that
loved
enge.
ed on
international amenities;
any weeks passed away before the noble
was slain-slain, too, by the father of
r
Herlover dead! Poor W
to the paternal lodge, an'
while her father's hand
igs of her lover's scalp?
eenonah! Will
d dwell among
is stained with
No; she hur-
l
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ries away to the well-known fountain. Her heart is
there; for it is a favorite spot, and was a trysting-
place, where herself and Chuleotah met. Its asso-
ciations are
past, while
pale ghost
come. 'Y<
will follow
flowery lan<
of the maiden.
which she now c,
a broken heart, n
cause she is sick
faith is, that by a
1 made sacred by the memories of
a the glassy bosom of the spring
Chuleotah stands beckoning her
my own, my beloved one, I come.
here thou leadest, to the green i
is spake th
is not a
templates;
the loss o.
the world,
act of pel
ie will, if not th
nere common s
it is not despair
f reason; it is n
or tired of life.
f-immolation sh
e lips,
suicide
r, nor
ot be-
Her
ie will
join her lover on that spirit-plain, whose far-off,
strange glory has now for her such an irresistible
attraction.
"The red clouds of sunset had passed away from
the western skies.
but they soon melt
shone through the
with more than co
silvered the fountai
winds, that sighed
pines.
spring,
bottom
ing into
still prc
mass of
Gray
ed and
airy blt
mmon
n. All
and m
Then came W
where, gazing (
the clear, greer
Sharp hollows,
)founder depths
rock, was her
for her, as before she
mists came steal
eenonah
)peared, as
The moon
ancy, and
still, save
d through
to the si
lown, she could
shelves
opening
Forty
ied of d
ild reac
s8
of limest
ti
ca
h<
the
tl
de
on
on
here and tha
ing on,
he stars
ime out
er light
e night-
ie lofty
of the
on the
e,glop-
ere into
feet below, on the
eath-easy enough
h it the spirit must
have fled.
jagged
rocks
on the floor could
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
therefore produce no pain in that beautiful form.
For a moment she paused on the edge of the spring,
then met her palms above her head, and with a wild
leap she fell into the whelming waves.
"Down there in the spring are shells
ished by the attrition of the waters.
with purple and crimson, mingled with
diations, as if beams of the Aurora, or
tropical sunset, had been broken an
among them. Now, mark those long,
ments of moss, or fresh-water algae, swa
fro to the motion of the waves; these ai
ened braids of Weenonah's hair, who
gives us such beautiful coruscations, spa
luminous, like diamonds of the deep, w
phosphorescence of night the ocean wave
with fire. These relics of the devoted In
the charm of Silver SDrings. But as to
herself- t
with her a
one of tho
sea, where
where boti
the rosy b<
he real woman
affections and
se enchanted i
the maiden an
h have found ai
powers of love e
whc
nem
sles
dhe
north
tern
, inely pol-
They shine
white irra-
clouds of a
d scattered
green fila-
ying
re th
to
e l
)se coro
irkling
hen in
is are tip
and
oos-
net
and
the
ped
dian girl are
Weenonal
could think and
ory-she has gon
far out in the wes
r lover are united,
er Silver Spring, a
al."
feel,
e to
tern
and
mid
Thus runs the Indian legend
Florida.
The following description <
ten by Prof. John Le Conte,
vested of myth and mystery,
that continue to invest it wit
the current of our thoughts
scenery in the State:
d of Silver Springs, in
SSilver Spring, writ-
although entirely di-
ontains truthful facts
a charm which stirs
as no other natural
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
"This remarkable spring is situated near the cen-
ter of Marion
latitude
county,
in the State of Florida,
290 15' north, and longitude 820
20' west.
It is about five miles north-east of Ocala, the county-
seat, and nearly in the axis of the peninsula, being.
equally distant from
the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
Its waters are discharged by a short stream bearing
the same name, which, after running about six miles,
unites with
the Ocklawaha, a
tributary of the St.
John's
River.
The stream takes its origin in a deep
pool, or head-basin, which is called the Silver Spring.
basin is
nearly circular in shape,
about two
hundred feet in diameter, and surrounded by hills
covered with live-oaks, magnolias, sweet-bays, and
other gigantic evergreens.
discharged is so
The amount of water
large that small steamers and barges
readily navigate the Silver Spring, up to the pool, or
head-spring, where there is a landing for the ship-
ment of cotton, sugar, and other produce.
These
steamers and barges make regular trips between the
Spring and Pilatka, on
the St. John's.
The boat-
*men informed me that at its junction with the Ock-
lawaha more than one-half the water is contributed
by the Silver Spring stream.
This stream, for about
two miles from
its source, varies in
breadth from
forty-five to one hundred feet, and its depth in the
shallowest parts from ten to fifteen feet, its average
velocity being about two miles per hour.
The fluc-
tuations of water-level in this spring seem to be con-
nected with the season of rains, but never varying
more than
two feet.
The commencement of
rainy season changes from the
15th of June to the
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
15th
rise
rains,
term
basin
to be
crevice
depth
found
quant
are se
not b
short
report
hund
while
spring
tion o
state
tance
of July.
about the
and attai
The waters of the spri
middle of the season
n their maximum heig
nation. The maximum d
constituting the head of t
not more than thirty-six
;e from which the water b
in the central and deep p
Sto be about thirty feet. Ii
:itative determinations, hoi
ldom resorted to by the u
'e surprised that its real
of its reputed depth. In
ted depth was variously
red and twenty to one hu
the smallest estimate in
g was forty-five feet! Thi
>f the general law. that the
nents
from
bears an
the point
inver
of
se
pr
epth of
he sprin
feet in
oils up;
ng begin to
of summer
ht about its
water in the
g was found
the deepest
the general
arts of the basin'
inasmuch as accui
ever easily apple
scientific, we n
depth falls very
South Carolina,
stated at from
ndred an
the vici
s affords
accuracy
portion
d fifty feet,
nity of the
an illustra-
Sof popular
to the dis-
observation-probably,
all emanations from centers, following the law of
inverse squares.
"Doubtless, the greater portion of the water which
flows in the Silver Spring River is furnished by this
principal or head-spring; but there are several trib-
utary springs of similar character along the course
of the stream, which contribute more or less to the
volume of water. These usually occur in deep ba-
sins, or coves, along the margin of the stream. The
depth of one of these coves, situated about two hun-
dred yards below the head-spring, was found to be
thirty-two feet in the crevice in the limestone bot-
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
tom
parts
feet.
means
two
from which the water boiled; in other deep
of the basin the depth was about twenty-four
The 'Bone-yard,' from which several speci-
of mastodon bones have been taken, is situated
miles below the head-spring, it being a cove, or
g twenty-
"The most remarkable
nomenon presented by th
ordinary transparency of
surpassing any thing whi
of the intrinsic beauties
the wonderful optical pr<
ports have ascribed to its
directly referable to their
On a clear and calm day,
sufficient altitude, the vie
six feet.
and really interesting phe-
which
operti
water
almos
aft
w f
ing is the truly extra-
vater-in this respect
n be imagined. All
1 invest it, as well as
es which popular re-
rs, are directly or in-
t perfect diaphaneity.
the sun has attained
m the side of a small
boat floating on the surface of the water, near the
center of the head-spring, is beautiful beyond de-
scription, and well calculated to produce a powerful
impression upon the iimagination. Every feature
and configuration of the bottom of this gigantic
basin is as distinctly visible as if the water was re-
moved, and the atmosphere substituted in its place.
"A large portion of the bottom of this pool is
covered with a luxuriant growth of water-grass and
gigantic moss-like plants, or fresh-water algte, which
attain a height of three or four feet. The latter are
found in the deepest arts of the basin. Withont
-r~ -
SV v
doubt, the development of so vigorous a vegetation
at such depths is attributable to the large amount
of solar light which penetrates these waters. Some
parts are devoid of vegetation; these are composed
basin, measuring
I~
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
of limestone rock and sand, presenting a white ap-
pearance. The water boils up from fissures in the
limestone; these crevices being filled with sand and
mmi
nts o
iced
"Th
g th
gthe
illiar
adov
nuted limestone, in
f water by the local
by the agitation of
ese observations we
Month of Decemb
sides and bottom
itly, as if nothing o
vs of our little boat,
hats, of projecting crags a
ing forest, an
distinctly an
waving of th
by means of
of the water,
above this m
living reality
ten. If we a
striking, tha
dicate the ascending cur-
milk-like appearance pro-
their contents.
re me
er-t
of th
bstru
of ou
nd lo
d of the vegetation
d sharply defined;
ide
he
is
c
r
I
about noon, dur-
sunlight illumin-
remarkable pool,
:ted the light. The
hanging heads and
gs, of the surround-
at the bottom, were
while the constant
e slender and delicate moss-like alga,
the currents created by the boiling up
and the swimming of numerous fish
miniature subaqueous forest, imparted a
to the scene which can never be forgot-
dd to this picture, already sufficiently
,t objects beneath the surface of the
water, when viewed obliquely, were fi
the prismatic hues, we shall cease to be
the mysterious phenomena with which
nations have invested this enchanting
sides the inaccuracies which have been
in relation to the wonderful properties o
ringed with
surprised at
vivid imag-
spring, be-
perpetuated
f its waters.
On a bright day the beholder seems to be looking
down from some lofty air-point on a truly fairy scene
in the immense basin beneath him-a scene whose
beauty and magical effect is vastly enhanced by the
chromatic tints with which it is inclosed.
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
"Popular opinion has ascribed to these
great a vertical
water as they co
stances cards w
contents at dep
The comparative
in air and water
of the wonderful
than any verbal
distance
aid in the
ere read
ths varyir
ben
ati
by
ag
r.
ed
ep
tl
ve
e
-- 1-. 1
waters re-
In confirmation of
that the New York
est parts of the pool.
hat the waters do not
r; that it is only the
heading of this paper
marKaDle magnrying power
this, it is commonly report
Herald can be read at the de
It is almost needless to state
possess this magnifying pov
large capitals constituting th
which can be read at the be
traordinary transparency of t
sufficient to account for all a
riety of careful experiments
of testing this point, by secu
brick.attached to a fathomin
what depth the words could
tically. Of course, when lo
letters were distorted and
Numerous comparative exp
executed in relation to the
same cards could be read in
these experiments may be an
-namely, that when the leti
size-say a quarter of an inc
a clear, bright day, they cou
he water
analogous
were mad
ring pri
g-line, an
be read
oked at
colored
eriments
distance
the air.
'14
ex-
is abundantly
facts. A va-
e, with a view
ted cards to a
d observing at
,hen seen ver-
obliquely, the
by refraction.
were likewise
at which the
The results of
nounced in a few-words
ters are'of considerable
h or more in length-on
Id be read at about as
ieath the surface of the
nosphere. In some in-
those ignorant of the
from six to thirty feet.
e experiments in reading the cards
serve to convey a more distinct idea
I diaphanous properties of the latter
description.
"Some have thought there was something myste-
)ttom, and that the
'F
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
rious in the fact that objects beneath the surface of
the water, when viewed o
prismatic hues. It is ur
physicist that such a pher
ical consequence of the 1
by refraction. Observatic
objects on a dark ground
the
the
jecl
cor
pre
ing
firs
top, with orange a
color of the fringil
ts on a white ground
dance with recognize
sent case, the phen
and conspicuous,
t, because the extra
water rendered subaqu
and secondly, because
fringed the pool cut off'
which would otherwise
pression produced by
dispersed rays proceed
shadow of the surrou
nd
ig
d-
ed
om
pr
ord
bliquely, are fringed with
necessary to remind the
iomenon is a direct
aws of dispersion of
)n has proved that
were fringed with b
red at the bottom,
was reversed for dar
-this being exactly
optical principles.
enon is remarkably
obably from two ca
inary transparency
a objects highly lumi
gigantic evergreens
st of the surface refle
ve impaired the visu
more feeble refracte
ding from the objec
ending forest forming
ts
phys-
light
white
lue at
while
k ob-
in ac-
In the
strik-
uses:
)f the
nous;
which
action,
al im-
d and
-the
a dark
background, analogous to the black cloud on which
a rainbow is projected."
The land improvements near the springs are not
particularly fascinating. There are two landings
about one-half mile distant from each other, called
Upper and Lower. At the Lower Landing is a large
turpentine distillery, the property of Messrs. Agnew
& Co., where thirty barrels of turpentine and one
hundred of rosin are manufactured monthly. The
Upper Landing has a large ware-house, usually well
filled with goods from steamers, to furnish the back
/
82 Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
country, together with produce for shipment to New
York and many other points.
Mrs. F. A. House has a dry-goods store in the
vicinity, and a small orange grove of very pro
appearance. A boarding-house is kept open
winter, but
could be de
water from
compensate
the tran
a man
doubt,
pounds
customer
Touri
we
rived
the
fort
are
in
spri
bhe
parent flui
with much
caused by
too freely,
rs.
unable to state what
drinking the strong lin
ng, unless the scenery
lack of life-giving
d. A bar-room is
-inflamed eyes, i
imbibing his vil
in the absence of
proper
kept h
whichh
lainous
better-
missing
in the
benefit
iestone
would
ties in
lere by
ire, no
corn-
paying
sts wishing to visit Ocala can be accommo-
dated
Ocala i
among
grand
shrubb
good h
with
s a n
the
water
a con
ice little
h
r-
ery.
otel is
about fort
center of
house, wh
in the su
the county
This loc
y b
the
il1
bu
ry
6
E
;al
veyance
c town.
ummocks
oaks, ora
It is the c
kept her
orders ca
park sta
churches
rbs. It is
people ma
ity is descr
on reason
six niiles dis
*
able
tant,
, empowered in a grd
,nge trees, and orn
capitall of Marion court
e by Mr. E. J. Harris
n be accommodated.
Minds a very creditable
of various creeds are
a central business rei
ny miles around.
ibed by De Soto as b
terms.
nestled
owth of
mental
ity. A
,where
In the
court-
located
sort for
being "a
fertile region of country where maize is abundant,
also acorns, grapes, and plums." Near here the
Spaniards entered upon the territory of a chief
called Vitachuco, who received them with demon-
stations of hostility;
" where a bloody battle was
V
a
m --
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
fought between two lakes on a level plain, when
two hundred warriors plunged into the water, and
there remained without touching land for twenty-
four hours." Ocala has a population of several
hundred inhabitants, which have more the appear-
ance of enjoyment than those of any other town in
the State. The climate being so mild, no arrange-
ments are made in the stores and offices for warm-
ing; consequently when a cool morning comes, little
camp-fires
which are
faces, of a
find them,
a Stoic, kn
are built
gathered
11 profes
taking a
owing it
around the public square, before
many happy, contented-looking
sions, accepting things as they
cool breeze with the firmness of
is only of short duration-a kind
of Northern aggression,
will soon waft away. As
uines float by them, they
and despair over the wrec
their fate, trying to be as
cumstances will permit.
of fine mental culture, be
hospitable people in exist
which the warm sunshine
the fragments of lost fort-
do not settle into apathy
k, but all seem resigned to
happy as the force of cir-
They are mostly persons
sides being the best, most
ence; indeed, their society
seems like an oasis in the desert of this cold, selfish
world.
The lands around are gently undulating, with an
abundance
It was for
county in
groves, an
of a A. -
ailU
and
disc
of rolling hummo
merly -considered
the State, contai
d before the wa
- i --. i -1.
Aunt of sea-island cotton,
sirup in abundance.
outraged during the late
ick and first-class pine.
the most productive
ning the best orange
r raising the largest
besides oranges, sugar,
Many planters became
war on account of in-
)
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ability to
work their large plantations,
and aban-
doned them. These fertile tr'
in lots to suit colonists, or acc
rs. An average of
the acre can be pro
uvial, and porous,
d other fertilizers,
operation when not
ounds, covering the
d drifts, indicating
purchased at from
)ol
count
it being
on each
cultivat
e fact of
is
Mari
State-
recede (
is now
from th
11
on the surface, c
shells, oysters, t
unknown to the
was proportion
the earth tremb
ing story is rel
animal during
which first navi
One morning
through the sh
aroused from t
An old hunter n
ever on the aler
howl of the wo
growl of the bea
uirth is that?'
two thou
duced he
contain
vhich p,
being c
earth ix
a clay
five to t
called t
the ceute
ide, until
Ad land.
numerous
consisting
)gether wi
present g
te t
lewi
ated
the
gate
earl
ades
heir
ame
t foi
)lf,
U
n
3(
te
J
r fr
whb
Thi
s fos
of
th t
onei
o his body
ith sound.
in refere
pioneer
d the Ock
acts are for sale
ommodate single
sand pounds of
re. The soil is
ig phosphate of
ssess the power
ltivated. Lime
the form of bow
)il. Good land
n dollars per ac
now
e set-
sugar
dark,
lime
of re-
-rock
riders
s can
re.
he back-bone of the
om which the waters
it was the ocean's bed
s theory is confirmed
ssil remains to be seen
fish, birds, alligators'-
he bones of an animal
ration; but if his voice
, he must have made
The following amus-
nce to this mammoth
movements of boats
lawaha River:
y, as the gray dawn
of night, the inhale
slumbers by an un
3d Matt. Driggers, w
the scream of the
the yell of the pan
r, rushed out, exclaiming
The
sound
was stealing
bitants were
usual noise.
hose ear was
wild cat, the
their, or the
S,"What on
was repeated,
when
tie
to
k
Matt. cc
blew a b
through
hounds
hunt.
the hook
haste to
low, Pa
chained
him?"
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
nvulsively grasped his
hunting-horn, and
last from his stentorian lungs which
a vast extent of country. His
came whining about him, anxious
Fakin
:s,
th
t!
in
"4
master
ere he
d
gh
7 \
down
he mounted
e nearest nei
you in tha
the swamp!
O M
dons!
was
echoed
faithful
for the
his rifle "Dead Shot" frort
his lank steed, and rode with
ghbor, Pat Kennedy. Hel-
r asleep, and the devil un-
Hark! now do n't you hear
att., that's nothing'
You know we d
drowned in the
unno, may be so; one thin
lty big varmint, an' his voice
thing I ever hearn afore in m
says Pat, "one thing sure: there
these parts but what my dogs and
bring down." Summoning all
soon on his way w
of the next frontie
of hounds and the
ran like wild-fire
hood, until
After rev
dogs, Matt.
the country
bushes and
lagoons, in
he imagine
the dogs to
all the
viewing
Drigge
was mi
swamp
pursuit
They
be put
1
ith Matt. Driggers to the house
rsman. Attracted by the baying
blowing of horns, the excitement
throughout the entire neighbor-
settlers were collected.
his comrades and counting his
rs, confident that the full force of
istered, then rode bravely through
is, fording creeks and swimming
of the great "varmint." When
were sufficiently near, he ordered
on the
trail.
Simultaneou
with
this movement came another shrill echo from the
supposed huge monster, which sent the dogs cower-
*
but one of those
[un seed his bones
Wakulla Spring."
g sartain, he's a
e is curoser than
y time." "But,"
is nothing ranges
' Kill Quick' can
his dogs, he was
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ing to their masters, at the same time unnerving
the courage of the bravest hunter. A look of su-
perstitious awe was depicted upon every counte-
nance, and none dared advance a step farther except
Matt. Driggers, who, bolder than the rest, led the
way, saying, "Come, boys; if the dogs are scared,
we will follow by the sound!"
Winding their course cautiously through the val-
ley, they followed in
direction
of the strange
sound, until they reached the basin of Silver Springs,
where they
ing cargo.
ies if they h
ing through
and trying
ability. Th
found a curious-looking
The hunters commenced
lad heard that great mon:
the valley, at the same t
to imitate, its voice to ti
le Captain. to their ere
AI
then told and illustrate
about which they were
steam-boat whistle!
Sometimes, the wate
above Silver Springs, v
pleasure
barges al
common
soon be
Large p
yet open
i
I
t
d to them that
so much exci
r being too cl
visitors are dep
in not seeing this portion
nd slow coaches being the o
ication. However, thy incc
overcome by a contemp
ortions of the country in t
to homestead settlers, where
craft discharg-
making inquir-
ster while pass-
me describing,
he best of their
at satisfaction,
the great noise
ted was only a
w for steamers
rived of a great
of the country,
inly medium of
nvenience will
lated railroad.
his locality are
e all good peo-
pie will receive a hearty welcome.
As we leave the river and springs, the' scenery
changes from trees and foliage to fertile prairies and
long marsh-grass, which sways in the breeze like
troubled waves. Here the huge alligators luxuri-
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
ate and crawl about in peaceful security, swallowing
their light-wood knots before commencing to hiber-
nate in winter, which precaution is said to be neces-
sary, that their diaphragms may not contract during
this torpid state.
In these wilds the palmetto rears its crowned head
in solitude, and the wild orange matures its golden
fruit, kissed by an eternal spring-time. This is the
home of the curlew, plume-crane, blue heron, fish-
hawk, royal king-fisher, mocking-bird, paroquet,
red-bird, blue-peter, water-turkey, limkin, and duck
-all of them God's free birds.
Our steamer 1
pathway through
hundred and fifth
waters are found
bream, perch; wh
the black bear, w
all kinds, and wil
The first body
commenced
making its
wide, deep lakes, and we are one
y miles above Pilatka. In these
a great variety of fish-pike, trout,
ile in the surrounding country live
ild cat, deer, gray fox, squirrels of
d hogs.
of water is Lake Griffin, twelve
miles
Lake
wide,
The
lake
Th
curre
tion
waiti
matri
A
arran
long; Lake Eustace, of less dimen
Harris, fifteen miles in length,
with an average of water thirty fe
tide of immigration is concentrate
very rapidly.
e following incident is related as
d among the primitive inhabitants
of the country, when priests were
ng in the church to administer t
imony to willing lovers:
devoted suitor, having made the
rements for the celebration of his
visions; then
seven miles
et in depth.
ing on this
having oc-
in this por-
not always
:he rites of
preliminary
nuptials, set
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
out in search of an official to perform the ceremony.
He, never having been initiated into the mysteries
of matrimony before, ignorantly inquired of the first
person he met where he could find a sheriff. The
man replied there was no sheriff nearer than Pilatka.
"Why do you wish for him
married, sir."
"I'm going to be
" O you want the squire, or preacher."
"Do
you know where a preacher lives,
then ?
thought
the sheriff
would
as well."
preacher has gone on the circuit." Knowing a
good deacon lived near, he repaired thither as a last
resort.
Finding the deacon at home, he related to
him, in tremulous tones, his disagreeable condition.
deacon informed him
that marrying did
come within
the pale of his
jurisdiction.
"But I
must be married,
deacon
repl
" replied the intended bridegroom.
led, "Impossible, sir!" Well,
deacon,
can't you
marry
us just a
little
preacher comes home?
Leesburg,
fronting partly on
Lake
Harris, is a
thrivingtown; has a post-office, court-house, Masonic
hall, hotel, private
boarding-houses, church, steam
cotton-gin, grist-mill, lumber dressing machine, etc.
A sugar-cane mill is in
operation, connected with
which is a centrifugal sugar-dryer, the only one in
the State. This mill can turn out fifteen barrels per
day. Every thi g produced here finds
market, as boatV pass almost daily, which
a ready
enables
the settlers to change all their surplus into money,
from a bale of cotton or moss to a dozen
eggs.
When Colonel Hart's little open boat and engine
first came up to dredge out the barnets and swamp-
"The
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
grass,
the natives gathered around him, thinking it
was a cook-stove.
The Indians traveled through these swamps by
wading in the water, and using a cow-hide fastened
at the
ends to transport their provisions,
women,
and children,
which
drew
after them,
making a trail that
asted several days, which en-
abled their friends or foes to follow them.
In
proac
this vicinity we find historical relics, and ap-
h
tragic
log mentioned
grounds.
by De
A portion of the cypress
Soto in his travels through
Florida is still to
be seen; also an artificial cause-
way, several hundred-yards in length, made of shells
from which the Indians extracted food and pearls,
near which
vet remains a portion of one of those
immense mounds, supposed to be the residence of
the Cazique.
Lake Dunham is the last in the chain of these in-
waters, upon
which
is situated
Okabumkee,
two hundred and twenty-five miles above Pilatka.
It is the terminus of navigation.
The Ocklawaha River was the mem-drable place
where the Payne's
Treaty Landing was drawn
and between the terminus of this chain of lakes and
Withlacoochee
River
are located
tragic
grounds of
General
Thompson
's murder and the
Dade Massacre.
5
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
CHAPTER
HE early history of Florida Territory, soon
L after it ca
1 United Sta
of blood f
appropriate
a sprinkling of histo
authenticity of which
The Indians were
ing West, as that c
means of idleness as
as little solicitude as
i 1
me into th
i *
,tes, Deing writt
or years, it is c
e and interesting
rical facts in tl
Some now livi
intensely oppo
country offered
Florida, where
Sthe buzzards
losses
sion of the
en in characters
red both
tersperse
k, to the
testify.
emigrat-
no such
they lived with
that lazily flew
r heads-while i
ork They were
with no habits
Sof lakes and riv
the watery inha
The movements of the
troops, encumbered with
piece, compared unfavorab
had to meet in warfare, wh
and leap ovV
like the wh(
far from the
flowers and
One of th
own late st
er the logs of
)oping crane,
spot where
grass in the
e occasions o
ruggle, was
tt
1
Arkan
race
indus
t
li
ers, with as li
bitants they ci
Indians and
heir wagons,
y with the agi
o could
the wide
that mad
it dashed
morning.
f the Sem
on accoul
hey won
inters ai
gliding
ttle idea
captured.
Americ
lid
nd
on
of
or a field-
le foe they
swim the streams
forest, and vanish,
e its nest at night
the dew from the
inole war, like our
nt of the fugitive
above their
have to w
fishermen,
the surface
locating as
i
I
Y
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.4 91
slaves, which the Indians harbored, instead of re-
turning to their owners, or permitting theif masters
to come and get them.
The following is a correct copy of an interesting
document, to which frequent reference was made
during the Florida war, as a compact which had
been violated. We have transferred it as an item of
interest. As the whites found the Indians becom-
ing troublesome neighbors, this treaty was drawn
up in order to rid the country of them-its violation
being the true cause of the war:
Treaty of Payne's Landing, concluded May 9, 1832, and rati-
fied April 12, 1834.
ARTICLE I. That the Seminole Indians relinquish to the
United States all claim to the lands they at present occupy in
the Territory of Florida, and agree to immigrate to the coun-
try assigned to the Creeks, west of the Mississippi River-it
being understood that an additional extent of territory, pro-
portioned to their numbers, will be added to the Creek coun-
try, and that the Seminoles will be received as a constituent
part of the Creek Nation, and be readmitted to all the privi-
leges as a member of the same.
ART. II. For and in consideration of the relinquishment of
claim in the first article of this agreement, and in full compen-
sation for all the improvements which may have been made on
the lands thereby ceded, the United States stipulate to pay to
the Seminole Indians fifteen thousand dollars, to be divided
- among the chiefs and warriors of the several towns, in a ratio
proportioned to their population, the respective portions of
each to be paid on their arrival in the country they consent to
move to: it being undei-stood their faithful interpreters, Abra-
ham and Cudjo, shall receive two hundred dollars each of the
above sum, in full remuneration for the improvements to be
abandoned, now cultivated by them.
ART. III. The United States agree to distribute, as they ar-
92 Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
rive at their homes in the Creek Territory, west of the Missis-
sippi River, a blanket and home-spun frock to each warrior,
women and children, of the Seminole tribe of Indians.
ART. IV. The United States agree to extend the annuity
for the support of a blacksmith, provided for in the sixth ar-
ticle of the treaty at Camp Moultrie, for ten years beyond the
period therein stipulated; and in addition to the other annui-
ties secured under that treaty, the United States agree to pay
three thousand dollars a year for fifteen years, commencing
after the removal of the whole tribe-these sums to be added
to the Creek annuities, and the whole sum to be divided, that
the chiefs and warriors of the Seminole Indians may receive
their equitable portion of the same, as members of the Creek
Confederation.
ART. V. The United States will take the cattle belonging
to the Seminoles, at the valuation of some discreet person ap-
pointed by the President, and the same shall be paid for in
money to the respective owners, after their arrival at their
new homes; or other cattle, such as may be desired, will be
furnished them, notice being given through their agent of
their wishes on this subject, before their removal, that time
may be afforded to supply the demand.
ART. VI. The Seminoles being anxious to be relieved from
certain vexatious demands for slaves and other property, al-
leged to have been stolen and destroyed by them, so that they
may remove unembarrassed to their new homes, the United
States stipulate to have the same property investigated, and
to liquidate such as may be satisfactorily established, provided
the amount does not exceed seven thousand dollars.
ART. VII. The Seminole Indians will remove in three years
after the ratification of this agreement, and the expenses of
their removal shall be paid by the United States; and such
subsistence shall also be furnished for a term not exceeding
twelve months after their arrival at their new residence, as in
the opinion of the President their numbers may require, the
emigration to commence early as practicable in A.D. 1833, and
with those Indians at present occupying the Big Swamp and
other parts of the country beyond, as defined in the second
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes. 93
article of the treaty concluded at Camp Moultrie Creek, so
that the whole of that proportion of Seminoles may be re-
moved within the year aforesaid, and the remainder of the
tribe, in about equal proportions, during the subsequent years
1834 and 1835.
Done at Camp at Payne's Landing, on the Ocklawaha River,
in the Territory of Florida, May 9, 1832.
JAMES GADSDEX, Commissioner, [L. S.]
and fifteen Chiefs.
Osceola figured
conspicuously
during
early
history of our
Florida
trouble
es; indeed,
consider the following statements connected with
his movements as items of unsurpassed interest to
those-who are
more fond
of facts without fiction
than the wondrous legends of any day-dreamer.
The mother of Osceola belonged to the Red
tribe of Indians, a branch of the Creeks. SI
Stick
ie was
married to Powell, who was an English trader among
the Indians for twenty years, and for this reason he
is sometimes called Powell instead of Osceola. He
was born in the State of Georgia, on the Tallapoosa
River, about the year 1800.
In 1808 a quarrel oc-
curred among the Indians of the Creek tribe, when
the mother of Osceola left, taking him with her, and
retiring to the Okefinokee Swamp.
Powell
remained
in Georgia, with his two daughters, and emigrated
to the West with them.
In 1817 Osceola retreated before General Jackson,
with a small party, and settled on Pease Creek. A
few years afterward he removed to the Bi
g Swamp,
in the neighborhood of Fort King, uniting himself
with the Micosukees.
The greater portion of his
life was spent in disquietude, when there was nei-
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
peace
nor war,
depredating
in various
ways. He was opposed to the Payne Treaty, de-
claring he would fight before signing it, or kill any
of his followers who made a move toward its ratifi-
cation.
When
the Indians held a council at Fort King,
consisting of thirteen chiefs, only eight of them were
willing to leave for the West. Hoithlee Mattee, or
Jumpei
called
a sworn
enemy
in their language
of the
"The
whites,
Lawyer,"
was
and for
whom General Jackson had offered a reward of five
hundred dollars, rose in tfeir council, with all the
dignity of a Roman orator, after which he announced
his intention in thundering tones:
"I say there is
no good feeling between Jumper and the white man.
Every branch he hews from a tree on our soil is a
limb lopped from Hoithlee's body.
Every drop of
water that a white man drinks from our springs ia so
much blood from Hoithlee's heart."
After the return
of Charlie
Emaltha from
West, who was the most intelligent of their chiefs,
he met with th
give expression
e whites in council,
that he might
to his opinion: "Remain
here,
" said he to the whites,
"and be our father;
the relation
of parent and
child
to each
ot
peace-it is gentle as arrow-root and honey.
;her is
The
disorderly among us have committed some depre-
dations, but no blood has been spilled. We have
agreed that if we met a brother's blood on the road,
or even found his dead body, we should not believe
it was by human violence, but that he had snagged
his foot, or that a tree had fallen upon him;
that if
r,
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
blood was spilled by either, the offender should an-
swer for it."
Previous to this period the Indians were lords of
the soil
and considered themselves located i
n a land
of undisputed titles, as
by right of possession, as
deeds.
entirely their own property,
though they held registered
The following is an effort at Indian
script
poetry,
ve of their condition previous to hostile denm-
onstrations
were
a happy people then,
Rejoicing in our hunter, mood;
No footsteps of the pale-faced men
Had marred our solitude.
Osceola was not tall, but of fine figure and splen-
did physique, his head being
always encircled wit
a blue turban, surmounted by the waving tafa luste,
or black-eagle
plumes, with
a red sash around his
waist.
was a time-server, a self- constituted
agent, and a dan
rouis
enemy when enraged.
1834 the United States survey corps, while camping
at Fort King, was visited by Osceola, Fred L.
g the captain.
Ming
Indians always show their friend-
ship by eating with their friends.
he refused all solicitations to par
On this occasion
take of their hospi-
tality, and sat in silence, the foam of rage resting in
the corners of his mouth.
Finally he rose to retire,
at the same time assuming a menacing
manner, and,
seizing the surveyor's
chain, said:
"If you cross my
land I will break this chain in as many pieces as
there are links in it, and then throw the pins so far
you can never get them again.
Like most of his
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
race, he waw
following of
Landing Tr
the chiefs:
people have
have uttered
be bro
mains
let th,
forest
tower
ken.
nothi
e flow
will 1
ing an
s possessed
which is a
eaty was fra
"There is
agreed in
I it; it is w
I speak; w
ng worthy
ers be crus
ift its head
d unsc
of a native eloquence, the
speci
ined
little
counc
ell; it
'hat I
)f wor
m
an
m
il;
t i
sa
rd
. t.
en, aft
d sign
ore to
; by th
s truth,
v I wil
. If t
ihed; the stat
to the sky and the storms,
athed.
The whites
the treaty to be
ued opposi
nature that
this reason
as their fri
Thompson,
that they h
come up
moved tl
pitch of
General
the Big
better.
than for
treaty, E
Is if
continued
to
through the pai
was seized, man
urging the stipulations of
very way. it
should suspect
oles did not r
feared them.
t, kept remain
ad made a promise
to le
SIndians contin-
is a law of our
t the strong; for
egard the Creeks
Captain Wiley
ding the Indians
ave for the West.
nopy, who, after
said he would not go. Some time
al Thompson ordered Osceola to
n the emigration list, which request
nation of this savage to the highest
tion, and he replied, "I will not."
on then told him he had talked with
Washington, who would teach him
ied, "I care no more for Jackson
nd, rushing up to the emigration
make his mark, stuck his knife
:er. For this act of contempt he
acled, and
confined
in Fort King.
enforced, whi
ng it in e
the weak
the Semin
.ends, but
the Agen
Messages were a
much debating,
afterward Gener
lso sent to Micai
and siga
he indigo
desperal
Thomps
Chief, in
He repl
you1." a
er the Payne's
ed by some of
be said. The
eir chiefs they
and must not
I do; there re-
he hail rattles,
ely oak of the
I
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
When Col. Fannin
arrested him he was heard
mutter,
the hour
After he was first
soon manifested
interpreter, prom
come back when
ty
ol
impr
signs
isin g,
the
bring with him one h
paper-which promise
take was made in relea
he had then been sent
ure woi
the whi
strange
After
have th
with pi
menced
sleeping
The
on Jun
Town
killed,
wound
whippil
caught
dispatch
carrying
uld
te
c
his
eir
en
c
lave been
isoned
of pen
if his i
sun wa
hundred
was ful
sing hi
West,
spared.
of powder in their pou
ecting a strong force,
g until it was done.
first direct demonstration
e 19, 1835, near what was c
settlement, at which time
another fatally injured; a
ed. The fray commenced
ng a party of five Indians,
in the act of stealing. I
h-rider, was kil
g the mail from
led August
Fort Broo
ad,
I shall
c
remember
"The sun is overhe;
; the Agent has his d
red-being a
d superiority.
is warriors to
rifles in order,
ihes, and corn-
not eating or
of
;alle
one
lso
by
wh
?riva
11,
ke t
This was an act of revenge for an Inc
a former encounter. Dalton was found
i
from Fort King with his body cut open and si
a pond. The Indians commenced snapping
5*
hostili
d the
SIndi
three
some
they had
ay, I will have mine."
he became sullen, but
itence, and called the
rons were taken off, to
s high overhead, and
warriors to sign the
filled. The great mis-
m from Fort King. If
much blood and treas-
He had one talk for
man, and another for the
compound of duplicity an
release he commanded h
knives in readiness, their
ite Dal
1835,
o Fort
ian kil
twenty
ton, a
while
King.
led in
miles
nk in
their
I
?
)m
Petals Plucked from Sunny Climes.
guns in the face of the Government, at the same time
expressing their contempt for the
aws, and threat-
ening the country with bloodshed if any force should
be used to restrain
them.
November 30, 1835, the
following order was issued by the Agent: "The cit-
izens are warned to consult their safety by guarding
against Indian depredations." Hostilities were soon
inaugurated
in a most
shocking
manner,
tragedy of deep in
Emaltha, November
cold-blooded murdc
port the
killing
Charlie
6, 1835-which act was only a
7V
sceo
a heading this band of
savages.
favored
Charlie
Emaltha
immigration, and
was shot
because
was preparing
move
West.
Osceola afterward selected ten of his boldest war-
riors,
which
were
to wreak vengeance on General
Thompson.
The General was then camping at Fort
King, little dreaming that the hour of his dissolu-
tion was so near, or that Osceola was lying in wait to
murder him.
Although
a messenger was sent to
tell Osceola of the
ing in
?n
Wahoo Swamp engagement be-
readiness, no laurels won on other fields had
any charms for him until Thompson should be vic-
timized by his revengeful machinations.
After lin-
gering about for seven days, the opportune moment
presented
from th
1836, as
e
itself, when Thompson was invited away
ort. On the afternoon of December 28,
he and Lieutenant Smith, who had dined
out that day, were unguardedly walking toward the
sutler's store, about a mile from the post, the say-
ages discovered
Agent for me;
them.
Osceola said,
manage
"Leave the
" They were
|