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De Soto National MemorialTheme(s): Early Explorers | Hispanic American | |
Description:
The mission of De Soto National Memorial is to commemorate Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who landed on the southwest Florida coast in 1539. With an army of 600 soldiers, Soto had come to the new world with a license from the King of Spain to explore, colonize and pacify the Indians of the area known as "La Florida". The expedition faced many hardships throughout the four-year, 4000-mile journey. Programs at the park explain the prevailing 16th century Spanish cultural values and the inevitable clash with the native cultures the expedition encountered. This expedition was the first large scale European mission into the interior of North America. Survivors of the expedition reported the abundance of rich natural resources found in "La Florida".
Accessibility:
Park facilities are wheelchair accessible. A regular wheelchair is available for visitor use on a free loan basis.
Activites:
Educational Programs | And more.
Directions to De Soto National Memorial
Plane:
Sarasota-Bradenton Airport
Car:
De Soto National Memorial is located at the northern terminus of 75th St. NW, Bradenton, Florida. Visitors can reach the park from I-75 or I-275.
From I-75 exit 42, follow State Road 64 west, for approximately twelve miles to 75th Street NW. Turn right (north) onto 75th Street NW, and proceed two and five-tenths miles to the park.
From I-275 exit 1, follow US-19 into Bradenton. Turn west onto State Road 64, for approximately five miles to 75th Street NW. Turn right (north) onto 75th Street NW, and proceed two and five- tenths miles to the park.
Public Transportation
Several commercial bus lines serve the area
Attractions:
Gamble Mansion State Historical Site
South Florida Museum
Lake Manatee State Recreation Area
Myakka River State Park
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Contact Information for De Soto National Memorial
P. O. Box 15390
Bradenton, FL
34280-5390
Phone: (941) 792-0458
Fax: 941-792-5094
Located in Bradenton, FL
For more information on De Soto National Memorial
Information on this page provided by the NPS.
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