Monday, January 14, 2013

Seriously St. Augustine

Bay front on the Mantanza
For over four centuries the beautiful shores of St. Augustine have been welcoming people. In fact, since 1565, people of all walks of life have been traveling to the scenic city. As America's first city, St. Augustine has been a safe harbor for all who will come, regardless of social standing, wealth, ethnicity or religion.


From early missions and places of 
Mass to later day sturdy fortifications, this enchanting city has well stood the test of time. The city has also retained its calling and allure. Picturesque scenes such as this little Mission, the beautiful bay front, and historic Castillo de San Marco offer tourist, artist and historians alike something of interest. Early Spaniards, Pirates, British, Minorcans, and a host of other nationalities came and were greeted by the native american indians who were already here. Just as they came, hundreds of thousands continue to visit each year making St. Augustine one of the most popular tourist destinations in the State of Florida.

Hurricanes and tropical storms have battered it. Cannon Balls have been fired upon it. The flames of raging fire have tried to destroy it and dishearten its inhabitants. In 1821, Florida became a U.S. Territory, it was also the year that Yellow Fever tried to wipe out the City of St. Augustine. Through years of uprisings and onslaughts, St. Augustine has always arisen victorious. 

She offers to those who will come, a peace and serenity that is found in lush tropical foliage, hundreds of years of history that you can reach out and touch, and longtime inhabitants who welcome you with open arms. She never turns anyone away and says to all who will come, this is a place where a new life begins. This is the strength of the city. It is what keeps it alive and vibrant. With the past so close at hand, the future is easily found and embraced.  Loving St. Augustine is easy. Leaving her is hard. Coming back is the only way to survive. 

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