Jacksonville’s Spanish-American war fort has been saved

On Thursday, the North Florida Land Trust announced it acquired a Jacksonville Spanish-American war fort that was almost lost forever.

The fort will be added to the Fort Caroline memorial, and will become part of the National Park Service’s educational programming.

The property had been purchased at a tax deed sale, and the buyer had considered demolition. However, a combination of $162,500 in city funds, a $100,000 donation from the Delores Barr Weaver fund, and other support combined to meet the $400,000 purchase price.

“The Spanish-American Fort is a treasured piece of North Florida history, one that could not be duplicated if the land it sits upon were to be developed,” said Delores Barr Weaver. “I’m delighted that with the City of Jacksonville’s help, and the willingness of other donors, the Spanish-American Fort will be preserved once and for all.”

The fort is one of four that was erected along the river at various times. The French Huguenots, the Spanish Empire, and the Confederacy all had forts that came and went.