Military

Ocracoke, a unique part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore with it's own dialect, captures a unique charm and spirit of community developed from its beginning in the 1580s as Wokokon Inlet.

Wokokon Inlet appeared on maps drawn by Englishman John White as early as the 1580s. The name evolved into Ocracoke, and by 1715, pilots were established on the island in order to safely navigate ships through the dangerous shoals. The village itself, once called Pilot Town, is rich with history that includes pirates, ponies, shipwrecks, hurricanes, and the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina. The infamous Blackbeard died here in 1718. Throughout its history, Ocracoke has been accessible only by mail boat, ferry, or private boat or plane. The Navy base established here during World War II and the Coast Guard have both made lasting impressions upon the island. Ocracoke grew into a vibrant fishing village for commercial and sport fishermen as well as a destination for hunters. The people of Ocracoke made this island a true treasure, having a distinctive brogue all their own. Today, the pristine, unspoiled beaches of Ocracoke remain part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and are maintained by the National Park Service. The village itself has retained its unique charm and community spirit.

For centuries, Florida's natural beauty and resources have caused countless tribes, nations and countries to cast a covetous eye on the verdant peninsula. One of Florida's most attractive natural features, though--its more than one thousand miles of coastline--have made it extremely vulnerable to attack and invasion by these competing influences.

To compensate for this geographic vulnerability, the controlling factions in Florida have, throughout history, set up a wide array of fortifications to reinforce their presence and protect their holdings. Over three hundred camps, batteries, forts and redoubts have been established in Florida, from the earliest days of settlement to the present. Many of these bastions grew steadily in size, and formed the foundation for numerous Florida cities that are named for the original outposts.

Featuring the history of Florida's forts from the colonial period, Seminole Wars, Civil War and twentieth century, Florida's Lonely Outposts--by military historian and Florida author Alejandro M. de Quesada--offers a thorough exploration of the fortifications and strongholds that have played a crucial role in shaping Florida's past.