Florida Archives and Manuscripts Repositories

Called the Dade Massacre site, it preserves the Second Seminole War battlefield where Seminole Indian warriors fought soldiers under the command of Major Francis L. Dade on December 28, 1835. Each year, on the weekend after Christmas (as close to the original date as possible), the Dade Battlefield Society sponsors a reenactment of the battle that started the Second Seminole War Dade Battlefield Historic State Park includes the preserved battlefield area, reconstructed log breastworks and a museum/visitor center as well as picnic areas and walking trails. Park visitors can get acquainted with the battle history by viewing a twelve minute video, " This Land, These Men." Mannequins provide a glimpse of the clothing worn by the soldier and Seminole and the muskets each used. There are other audio exhibits and displays of artifacts related to the battle. Visitors can purchase a variety of books related to Dade's battle with the Seminoles, as well as books about the Seminole Wars, Seminole Culture and more.