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Our Florida Podcast
Our Florida Podcast is a deep dive into the Sunshine State’s rich history and fascinating ecology. Join 6th-generation Floridian sisters Kaylee Betts Johnson and Maegan Betts as they uncover the stories and natural wonders that make Florida unique.
Florida is one of the most popular states for a reason. Whether you're a longtime local, a snowbird, or a new resident, we hope you'll discover something new that deepens your appreciation for this beautiful and diverse place.
🎙️ Mondays – Kaylee explores Florida’s history, from conquistadors to conservationists, sharing the stories of those who shaped the state.
🌿 Fridays – Maegan dives into Florida’s wildlife and ecosystems, revealing the incredible biodiversity that makes it so special.
Our Florida Podcast
EP #5 Fort Mose – The First Free Black Settlement in America
In this episode, Kaylee and Maegan explore the remarkable history of Fort Mose, the first legally recognized free Black settlement in what would become the United States. Located near St. Augustine, Florida, Fort Mose was a sanctuary for Africans escaping slavery, offering a new life under Spanish rule.
The discussion covers the settlement’s founding, the different approaches to slavery in Spanish and British territories, the role of Catholicism in granting freedom, and the resilience of maroon communities. The episode also highlights the British siege, the cultural and social structures that defined life in Fort Mose, and the ongoing efforts to preserve its legacy.
Episode Timestamps:
📍 00:00 – Introduction to Florida's Unique History
📍 01:05 – The Establishment of Fort Mose
📍 03:03 – The Journey of Africans to Florida
📍 06:00 – Differences in Slavery: Spanish vs. British
📍 11:55 – The Role of Catholicism in Freedom
📍 18:03 – Maroon Communities and Their Significance
📍 24:30 – The Historical Context of Fort Mose
📍 30:13 – The Community and Leadership at Fort Mose
📍 35:02 – The British Siege and Aftermath
📍 40:08 – Cultural Dynamics and Social Structure
📍 45:02 – The Legacy of Fort Mose and Its Rebirth
Resources & Links:
🔹 Learn more about Fort Mose- Website: Fort Mose Historic State Park
🔹Facebook: Fort Mose Historical Society | Saint Augustine FL
🔹 Nation's Oldest City: In 1687, Florida offered asylum to 11 refugees who sought freedom from slavery
🔹Fort Mose: The first free Black town in the US
🔹The English Menace & African Resistance
🔹Fort Mose Historical Society | Saint Augustine FL
Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.
https://www.instagram.com/ourfloridapodcast
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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at ourfloridapodcast@gmail.com