• -

more on site agreement

16th Century Boat building agreement signed
Posted on October 26, 2011 by john
St Augustine, Florida

Sail Chalupa

16th Century sailing vessels will soon be constructed at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in St. Augustine, Florida in partnership with the St. Augustine Maritime Heritage Foundation supported by extensive research conducted by The Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program.
The 1565 Birthplace of St Augustine and Colonial European America at the Park site offers sweeping views of the water and a 15 acre historic location to build these vessels.

“We are very pleased to continue bringing 16th Century history to life here with this ship building project” says Park General Manager, John Fraser, “It’s a great addition to our daily programs and important historic site.”

The St. Augustine Maritime Heritage Foundation is dedicated to showcasing the important maritime history of St. Augustine, Florida and works extensively with Dr. Sam Turner at the Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program to ensure authenticity. Plans are to begin construction of a traditional 16th Century Landing Craft called a “Chalupa” prior to building a much larger ship known as a “Caravel”
“This will be a great partnership” states Maritime Heritage President Maury Keiser. “We want community involvement in this historic project leading up to the important 2013, 500th Anniversary of Spanish Explorer Ponce De Leon’s arrival in Florida and the 2015, 450th Anniversary of the Founding of St. Augustine at this site.”

For more information visit Maritime Heritage website now available at staugmaritimeheritage.org or www.fountainofyouthflorida.com.