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Take A Trip Back In Time

A four-day event features the re-enactment of pioneer life.

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By Joyce McKenzie of The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 7, 2008

Thonotosassa - Thonotosassa - Organizers tout it as a chance for guests of all ages to witness how Florida history unfolded more than a century and a half ago.

The public is invited to the Fort Foster Rendezvous, an annual four-day event beginning Thursday that features the re-enactment of pioneer life during the mid-1800s Seminole Wars period in a military garrison at Fort Foster.

History buffs dressed in period costume portray soldiers, American Indians, craftsmen and food vendors, re-creating the historical happenings at the fort, a replica of the original garrison that served as a supply outpost between Tampa's Fort Brooke and Ocala's Fort King during the Second Seminole War.

When militia troops booby-trapped and abandoned the original fort two months after its construction in March 1836, the Seminoles invaded the site and ignited an explosion that destroyed the fort and nearby bridge over the Hillsborough River.

Originally called Fort Alabama after soldiers from Alabama who constructed it, the garrison was later rebuilt and named Fort Foster, after Lt. Col. William S. Foster, who supervised its construction.

For several years, Steve Saunders, a retired Hillsborough County sheriff's major, has served as the soldiers' quartermaster, the officer responsible for the troops' food, shelter, clothing and equipment.

"It's fun for those of us who like to play cowboys and Indians, but of course there is a much more serious side," Saunders said. "If you want to see a wonderful example of history where it actually happened, a store that's portrayed by settlers selling their wares, craft demonstrations and eateries with all kinds of food, this is the place to be. Kids love it."

Veterans Memorial Park curator Archie Marshall, a volunteer Fort Foster Rendezvous re-enactor since 1994, concurred.

"There is a certain degree of camaraderie among us, and we all share the goal of reinterpreting history," said Marshall, who noted the event is the only rendezvous of its kind in Florida that takes place at an actual fort. "It's a place that we can completely immerse ourselves in its history; we like to bring the site to life."

On Saturday and Sunday, in addition to the other attractions, a mock skirmish between the U.S. soldiers and Seminole Indians will be staged in the early afternoon.

Staff members will assist with parking at Hillsborough River State Park, and trams will transport guests to and from the event.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Fort Foster Rendezvous

WHERE: Fort Foster State Historic Site at Hillsborough River State Park, 15402 N. US 301

WHEN: From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 14-17

HOW MUCH: Public admission is $5 for ages 13 and older and free for ages 12 and younger. There is a $2 fee for students attending Thursday and Friday; teachers and chaperons are admitted free Thursday and Friday.

INFORMATION: Visit www.floridastateparks.org or call (813) 987-6771.

Reporter Joyce McKenzie can be reached at (813) 865-4849 or jmckenzie@tampatrib.com.

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