BobRingReflections

Two family members suggested topics that led to my writing this article on the history of the Florida Keys.  A few years ago, Pat recommended a book about an old railroad that used to run along the length of the Keys - a book that proved both illuminating and fascinating.  Then, more recently, my brother Al suggested that I write about the little-known Fort Jefferson at the southwestern end of the Keys.   So, after a short introduction, I will talk about the landscape of the Florida Keys, the first native peoples in the Keys, Spanish and English exploration and occupation, and then the United States history of the Keys, including Fort Jefferson, the overseas railroad, and the overseas highway.   I will close by discussing selected events in the 20 th and 21 st centuries, today’s economy and tourism in the Florida Keys, and protected marine reserves and wildlife refuges . My principal resources include The Greatest Railroad Story Ever Told:   Henry Flagler & the Florida East