Ponce de Leon
A man of many accomplishments
Who?
Simply, he was a Spanish explorer and conquistador. However, he was also a the first Governor of Puerto Rico, Founder of Florida, and passenger on Christopher Columbus' second voyage to the new world. Ponce de Leon was not just a great man of Spain history, but rather, a great man of World history. His actions created European influence on places that were not yet affected, and contributed to the Age of Exploration greatly.
The Mythical Foutain of Youth
A coin from the Santa Maria de la Consolacion
Bahamian Love Vine
The Story Behind the Man & These Items
First Major Exploration
Appointment
The Exploration
Florida, the new "Island"
Last Voyage
Are we to let this man who influenced the world so much simply be forgotten? Or will this museum incorporate these items to keep his memory alive?
A letter of His
Dearest Leonor,
We have landed safely with ease onto this new landscape, called San Juan Bautista. I have decided to settle the crew about two or so miles from shore. We were quite eager to explore, but have taken the time to build a store shed and house, as those are simply necessary shelters. I do not mind the lack of space, because frankly, this expedition is very much worth it. You see- we have planted a few crops, but most of our time has been spent mining the mounds of Gold in this soil. Yes my dear, the natives were not telling tales! And how glad I am! Nothing can really chip my elated soul, this raw gold is worth fortunes and there is so much more to be found. They aren’t many things to worry about here either, the natives are not to much of a problem, and I believe I have a way to put them to use. The worst thing we fear is our lack of food supply, but once we have enough gold I assure you we will return to gather food and other resources that may become scarce. The Crown will have to be pleased and proud of our work, and I’m certain he’ll ask us to return to the island to mine. I wish for you, if he does ask and the children to come with me to San Juan Bautista. We will live happily and rich with little worries and the land will be only ours, only Spain’s.
Leonor, this land has already given me so much, and now I believe it wishes to gift our family. Will you travel with me back to this plentiful island if our Crown so wishes?
From your dearest,
Juan Ponce de León