St Marks - San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park

The history of San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park began in 1528 when Panfilo de Narvaez arrived with 300 men. They had traveled overland from Tampa, Narvaez was impressed by the area located at the meeting point of the Wakulla and St. Marks rivers. They built and launched the first ships made by white men in the New World.

The first fort was built in 1679 and occupied for a short time during the 1800s by Andrew Jackson.

The museum at San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park has many exhibits and artifacts such as pottery and tools that assist in explaining the area's history. The visitor center is built on the foundation of the old marine hospital.