Fort Matanzas

This fort was constructed in 1742 by the Spanish military in order to protect their settlement of St. Augustine. It is situated on the Matanzas River near a virtually unnavigable inlet. This inlet during the 18th century was considered the back door to St. Augustine. Eight men and one officer spent 30 day tours here keeping an eye on the back door inlet for any French,British or pirates looking to invade. This fort didn't see much action (only 2 attacks) for all the years it stood guarded. However, one bloody massacre gave the fort its name. 250 French soldiers attempted to pass this area and were fired upon. The Catholic Spanish captured them and told them to convert from their Protestant faith or face death. The French opted for death. And thus, the Spanish word for massacre, matanza, is now the fort's namesake.

Many of you have commented that I haven't appeared in any of the photos, so here I am! I really am on this trip!! This photo was taken from the top of Fort Matanzas. We took the National Park Service tour and had our own private showing. We anchored in the river right across from the fort and had a very peaceful night. The temperatures are improving!! We are now ready for the big fort in St. Augustine, Castillo de San Marcos.