Ahoy Matey! I recently spent a girl’s weekend getaway with two dear friends of mine in Amelia Island in Northeast Florida. Not only was I extremely happy to catch up with Kelly and Kim, but I got to go back to this wonderful destination full of history, legends and Southern Charm.  

One of our first stops during our trip was “The Palace Saloon” in Fernandina Beach (the historic district) which has welcomed patrons from the elite class and the illicit since 1878. 

Known then as the “Ship’s Captains Bar,” it caught my attention because I loved that this place, which bills itself as a true “gentleman’s establishment,” was also a favorite of smugglers, buccaneers and bandits. Ask the bartender tell you some great lengends of this place.

For those interested in history as I am, Amelia harbors a treasure trove of history …

Playground of Pirates
Although Amelia now has a simple innocence, she once simmered with depravity as smugglers and ruffians sought to seize the “prima donna” of Florida land. As the border town between Spanish Florida and American territory, the island’s colorful period began during Jefferson’s Embargo Act of 1807.

With all U.S. ports closed to foreign shipping, the island’s Spanish harbor of Fernandina became the nation’s smuggling center for slaves, liquor and foreign luxuries.

What is now known as Old Town attracted racketeers from around the world. The bluff overlooking the San Carlos Military Site was lined with bordellos. Eventually Fernandina, survivor of three more flag usurpations, was forced to relinquish its illegal ways when it ceded to the U.S. in 1821.

In my next blog posts, I will share more trip details and hopefully tempt you to visit this unique destination.

  Ciao!