Historical Markers in
Nassau County, Florida

6-Pound Cannon A Dune System Called "NaNa" Amelia Island Lighthouse American Beach at the Crossroads Battle of Thomas Creek Bryant Academy David L. Yulee Egmont Plantation Ervin’s Rest Evans’ Rendezvous Fairbanks Home Fernandez Grant First Home on American Beach First Missionary Baptist Church of Fernandina First Presbyterian Church Florida Honors and Remembers our POW’s and MIA’s Florida House Florida's First Atlantic to Gulf Railroad Florida's First Cross-Peninsula Railroad Fort Clinch Fort Clinch Military Road Fort Clinch Military Road Fort San Carlos Franklintown Chapel Historic American Beach Historic Florida Railroad Italia John Muir's Walk on the Florida Railroad Kings Ferry Martha's Hideaway McClure's Hill Memorial United Methodist Church Mount Olive Baptist Church Nassau County American Revolutionary War Memorial Nassau County Historic Courthouse New Zion Baptist Church Old Town Peck High School Phelan-Verot House Built Prior to 1866 Pine Forest Community High School Plaza San Carlos Post Office Lamp Posts Revolutionary War Invasion of British East Florida Shipwreck, Slavery and Survival Skirmish of American Revolution St. Peter's Church The Battle of Waterman's Bluff The Good Shepherd Church 1887-1966 The Lesesne House The Old Nassau County Jail The Plaza The UNESCO Slave Route Project: Resistance, Liberty, Heritage U.S. Post Office–Customs House-Courthouse William Bartram Trail
The name "Florida" actually comes from the Spanish word "florido," which means "full of flowers."
Florida random facts
Nassau County, located in northeastern Florida, has a rich history spanning centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Timucua Native Americans, whose presence can be traced back thousands of years. In the late 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in what is now Nassau County, establishing missions and trading posts. However, European settlement did not start until the 18th century.

The first European settlers in Nassau County were British colonists, who established plantations along the St. Marys River. The county was officially formed in 1824 and named after the duchess of Nassau in Germany. During the early 19th century, Nassau County thrived economically due to its fertile lands and abundant natural resources. The area became known for its timber industry and was a major hub for lumber mills and sawmills.

In the late 19th century, Nassau County experienced a boom in tourism and transportation. The opening of railroads and steamship lines connected the county to other parts of Florida and beyond, attracting visitors and fostering economic growth. Amelia Island, within Nassau County, became a popular destination for wealthy vacationers from northern states.

Throughout the 20th century, Nassau County continued to evolve and develop. It played a role in World War II as home to several military bases, contributing to the local economy and population growth. The county also saw advancements in agriculture, with citrus and shrimping becoming important industries.

Today, Nassau County remains a popular tourist destination, known for its pristine beaches, historic sites, and natural beauty. The county's economy is diverse, with sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, and healthcare contributing to its growth. Despite its modernization, Nassau County still cherishes and preserves its historical landmarks and cultural heritage, making it a fascinating place to explore and learn about Florida's past.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Nassau County, Florida.

  • 1539 - Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto visits what is now Nassau County
  • 1562 - French Huguenots establish Fort Caroline along the St. Johns River
  • 1565 - Spanish forces under Pedro Menéndez de Avilés destroy Fort Caroline
  • 1702 - English forces capture Spanish-held St. Augustine and gain control over Nassau County
  • 1763 - Treaty of Paris cedes Florida to the British, including Nassau County
  • 1783 - Treaty of Paris returns Florida to Spanish control
  • 1811 - Georgia seizes control of Amelia Island, including Nassau County
  • 1817 - United States restores control over Amelia Island and Nassau County
  • 1824 - Duval County is created, encompassing present-day Nassau County
  • 1827 - Nassau County is established as a separate county
  • 1851 - The city of Fernandina Beach is incorporated
  • 1861-1865 - Nassau County supports the Confederacy during the American Civil War
  • 1920s - Prohibition era leads to growth of illegal alcohol smuggling in Nassau County
  • 1941-1945 - Nassau County contributes to the war effort during World War II with military installations and shipyards
  • 1954 - The construction of the Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base begins in southern Nassau County
  • Present - Nassau County is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and natural attractions