Dade Battlefield Historic State Park

One of the bloodiest battles of the Second Seminole War was fought in this location.

The site of an 1835 massacre in which Seminole Indian warriors attacked and killed 105 of 108 U.S. soldiers, the Dade Battlefield Historic State Park offers visitors a chance to stand on the hallowed ground of one of the most brutal battles of the Second Seminole War. Those visiting around New Year's will have the chance to witness the battle's historical reenactment.

The battle that started the Second Seminole War is commemorated in January each year under the oaks of Dade Battlefield. On December 28, 1835, Seminole Indian warriors ambushed 108 soldiers at this site-only three soldiers survived. The park protects not only a historic battlefield, but also the natural communities as they existed when the soldiers and Seminoles battled over 180 years ago. Strolling a half-mile nature trail through pine flatwoods, visitors might see gopher tortoises, woodpeckers, songbirds, hawks, and indigo snakes. The park has a playground, picnic area with covered shelters, and a recreation hall. The visitor center has information and displays about the battle and visitors can watch a twelve-minute video history, This Land, These Men. The center is open 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. daily. Located off I-75, exit 314, west of U.S. 301. (from website.)