An Underwater Hospital And Cemetery Was Just Discovered At Dry Tortuga National Park

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The slab was carved and inscribed with Greer’s name and date of death.

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.