Here at OnlyInYourState, we love new discoveries in our states that make headline news. Something about the fact that there are still mysteries out there in the world being uncovered is extremely fascinating! For instance, recently, archaeologists found the remains of an underwater hospital and cemetery at Dry Tortugas National Park, dating back to the 1800s. Just when you thought this incredible National Park couldn’t get any cooler, an incredible slice of history is unearthed. Check out this new archaeological discovery in Florida that is igniting the news.

Editor’s Note: This island discussed below had long since been submerged and eroded by rising tides and storms. Around two hundred years ago, 11 islands made up the Dry Tortugas National Park. Today, due to rising tides and storms, only seven remain.

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most beautiful attractions in the state of Florida. Located west of Key West, Florida, these seven small islands are some of the world's most exciting and unique eco-attractions.
Flickr Matthew Paulson
Dry Tortugas National Park shows up on many lists as one of the best national parks in our country. It is easy to see why and we would also agree that this national park is pretty amazing. Even though it will take a little bit of planning to get there, since you will need to take either a boat or seaplane, the experience is totally worth it. While you are there you can lounge on the pristine beach, snorkel in the crystal-clear water, or even camp on the island and watch the brilliant display of stars at night. One of the best things to do is explore the fort and dive deep into the fascinating history of Dry Tortugas. The history of the island just got a little more interesting with a newer discovery found in the water.
Recently, Dry Tortugas made headlines after an archeological discovery was made of a 19th-century quarantine hospital and cemetery submerged near Golden Key. Only one gravestone has been identified thus far. However, records indicate dozens more may be unearthed.
Flickr Matthew Dillon
According to historical research, Fort Jefferson Post Cemetery held dozens of people, most of whom were military members who either served or were imprisoned at the Fort.
Susan Smith/ Flickr

Related Stories

Few People Know There's A Beautiful State Park Hiding In This Tiny Florida Town

Few People Know There's A Beautiful State Park Hiding In This Tiny Florida Town

 Few People Know There's A Natural Wonder Hiding In This Tiny Florida Town

Few People Know There's A Natural Wonder Hiding In This Tiny Florida Town

 The Small Town Spring In Florida That's An Idyllic Summer Day Trip

The Small Town Spring In Florida That's An Idyllic Summer Day Trip
The gravesite that was uncovered was a civilian named John Greer, who died at the fort on November 5, 1861. Greer was employed as a laborer.
National Park Service
The details regarding Greer’s death remain unclear. However, the gravestone discovered was a large slab of greywacke, the same material that the first floor of Fort Jefferson was constructed out of.
National Park Service
The slab was carved and inscribed with Greer’s name and date of death.
National Park Service

So what do you think about this underwater archaeological site in Florida? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section! You can also learn more about this underwater hospital and cemetery by visiting the National Park Service website. We think this gives us just another reason to love Dry Tortugas National Park but to be honest there were already so many. If you want to stay the night and enjoy a mesmerizing blanket of stars in the sky then make sure you have a good tent for your journey.

Also, if you want to know more about Dry Tortugas, we have you covered. This is easily one of the most fascinating attractions Florida has to offer. Enjoy the ultimate guide to Dry Tortugas National Park.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

National Parks In Florida

Chris Dodge | April 04, 2024

What are the national parks in Florida?

There are three major national parks in Florida and with careful planning, you can pair them all into one trip. Here are the names of each park:

 

What are the best things to do in Dry Tortugas National Park?

Here are some of the best things to do in Dry Tortugas National Park:

  • Explore Fort Jefferson
  • Learn the history of the island
  • Lounge around on the pristine white sand beach
  • Swim in the crystal clear water
  • Snorkel around the coral reef
  • Camp on the island and look up at the amazing night sky after the sun goes down

Related Articles

Explore Florida

Featured Addresses
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida, USA