Our family traveled to Washington, D.C., a few years ago and like most people visiting the nation’s capital, we set our sights on the many famous monuments and memorials the city is known for. It was educational and fun for the whole family, which got me thinking about monuments here in our own backyard.
Although most people visit our area for its beautiful beaches, Pensacola has a rich history dating back to the 16th century, much of which is depicted in statues and memorials around the city. A new idea for a staycation day – or a vacation day for those visiting our city – was born.
Here are a few highlights of the must-see stops to help you explore Pensacola’s trail of monuments. Palafox Street, which runs through the heart of downtown Pensacola, is filled with historical monuments and a good place to begin your tour.
Erected in 1992, a monument and bust of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., honors the revolutionary Civil Rights activist in a dedicated plaza that occupies the median of Palafox between Garden Street and Wright Street. A plaque at the base of the bust is inscribed with a quote from King’s 1964 Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech. It reads, “Man must evolve for all human conflict a method which rejects revenge, aggression and retaliation. The foundation of such a method is love.” The plaza is frequently the site of peaceful protests for numerous causes, and many people gather here during Pensacola’s annual celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. A popular farmer’s market, Palafox Market, takes place here on Saturday mornings.
Dedicated to the memory of service men and women who sacrificed their lives defending the United States, Veterans Memorial Park is a multi-acre public space near the Pensacola Bayfront. It is home to Wall South, the first permanent replica of the National Vietnam Wall Memorial, as well as memorials for lives lost in the Revolutionary War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the War on Terror. Other statues and plaques honor courageous individual efforts and local heroes. Special ceremonies are frequently held in the park, and it is a good place to take children or anyone who wants to learn more about honoring the U.S. military.
Across from Veterans Memorial Park, on the south side of Bayfront Parkway, visitors can cross a pedestrian bridge over Hawkshaw Lagoon to observe “The Sanctuary,” a bronze sculpture by artist Sam Nettles. The surrounding park and monument, built in 2002, serve as the National Memorial for Missing Children, while also providing an observation point for the natural beauty and wildlife in and around the lagoon.If you’ve never visited these monuments, you may not have realized how much history is preserved right in front of our eyes here in Pensacola. Which monument will you explore first?
The Pensacola Lighthouse – Shining a Light on Pensacola’s History
Since 1859, the Pensacola Lighthouse has been guiding ships safely through Pensacola Pass. It has survived multiple hurricanes, endured shots from a cannon during the Civil War and has even sustained an earthquake, making it almost legendary. Over the years, the lighthouse has held many keepers who made their living walking up and down the 177 steps, day in and day out, lugging heavy oil cans all the way.
Step Back in Time: Explore Pensacola’s History Along the America’s First Settlement Trail
Are you ready to take a stroll through history? Literally. When you walk around Downtown Pensacola, not only are you surrounded by some of the best restaurants, shopping and nightlife in Florida, but you are literally standing in the footprint of America’s First Settlement.
Historic Pensacola Hotspots
Your fast track to 460 years of history.
We’re Number 1: Things Pensacola Had First
Born and raised in Pensacola, I am clearly a big fan of my city and all it has to offer. As I’ve grown up and been able to travel around the country, I’ve realized just how special my hometown is. Not just because it’s where I call “home,” but also because of the culture, character and rich history. In fact, Pensacola is known as the first for many things…you just might not realize it. For your history lesson of the day, here’s a walk down memory lane to share some of what makes Pensacola number one…
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