06/19/2026
So many connections and ways within our Historic City of St. Augustine to celebrate Juneteenth and freedom!
Today, on , we celebrate freedom for all Americans.
Did you know?💡 The journey to freedom in the U.S. spanned centuries. In 1738, more than 125 years before Juneteenth, Fort Mose in St. Augustine was established as the first free Black community in what would become the United States. Historians estimate 100 formerly enslaved people traveled south to Spanish Florida and made their homes at Fort Mose.
Fort Mose’s incredible story of freedom, courage and resilience is preserved and told for all time at Fort Mose Historic State Park.
As part of its mission to share the inspiring story of Fort Mose with the world, the Fort Mose Historical Society each year hosts a reenactment of the Battle of Bloody Mose. Donning full militia gear and operating replica fi****ms, the militia depicts the 1740 British invasion of St. Augustine and the brave, surprise raid mounted by an alliance of Spanish, Natives and the Fort Mose militia at Fort Mose Historic State Park.
This year’s event is set for Saturday, June 27, with reenactments scheduled for 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Admission is free.
Whether you are already familiar with Fort Mose or are just discovering this story for the first time, the Battle of Bloody Mose reenactment is a perfect occasion to honor and reflect on the meaning of freedom.
Learn more: https://fortmose.org/battle-of-bloody-mose-2022/
