Cliff Stearns: “Today I will introduce a bill of historical importance. My home, Ocala, Florida, is home to Fort King. This Fort played…”

“Today I will introduce a bill of historical importance. My home, Ocala, Florida, is home to Fort King. This Fort played a direct role in the founding of Florida as a state. On December 28, 1835, Fort King was the site of an outbreak of hostilities between the United States Government and the Seminole Indians. The Seminoles, were led in this attack by Chief Osceola. This attack began the Second Seminole War, which lasted longer than any other United States armed conflict, except for the Vietnam War. Fort King and the surrounding area contain artifacts used in the attack and in the life of the Seminole Indians. This bill would help preserve Seminole history in Florida. My bill authorizes a study by the Interior Department to identify a means of preserving and developing Fort King. Preserving our past for our children and grandchildren is imperative. Fort King is a historical gem that should be accessible to all. I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting this important, historical bill.”