In the 1830s, the Seminole nation fought to remain in its Florida homeland, and their 3,500 descendants celebrate their forebears’ courage and determination at an annual reenactment of the Second Seminole War. This year’s Big Cypress Reenactment takes place Feb. 26 through 28.

The Seminole Tribe of Florida fought the loss of their freedom and relocation to Oklahoma when the United States pursued the policy of Indian removal. They waged a fierce seven-year war that involved 52,000 soldiers fighting against fewer than 2,000 warriors. Incidentally, it cost our fledgling nation more than the American Revolution.

Three days of events at the Big Cypress Reservation, located just north of I-75 on exit 49, are highlighted by authentic soldier and warrior attire and demonstrations of the tactics typical during the Second Seminole War. Reenactments begin at 2 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Costumed ‘settlers’ will hew wood, work with iron and silver and depict trading techniques from the era.

Okefenokee Joe, Cowbone and Benjamin ‘The Cracker Tenor’ Dehart are the featured musical acts. The family-friendly program also includes Seminole food and pioneer artisans, tomahawk throws, and a primitive archery competition, venomous snake shows and alligator wrestling. 

To learn more about the Seminole history in Florida, read this informative article, learn about the history personally at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, or experience it at the reenactments.

More details are available at www.bigcypressshootout.com or by calling 800-GO-SAFARI.