2007-2008 Living History Camp Schedule

Date: December 18, 2007

Come Experience History at CampUzita

BRADENTON, FLORIDA -- De Soto National Memorial will be running its annual camp season starting on December 15, 2007, and ending March 30, 2007. Programs will be held everyday except Christmas Day and New Years Day due to the park being closed.

Camp Uzita at De Soto National Memorial brings visitors back in time to 1539, when 650 Spanish conquistadors came to Tampa Bay and changed the lives of its native inhabitants forever. Programs will focus on the meeting of two very different cultures, as guest will listen to talks, watch demonstrations on Spanish and Native weaponry. Watch living history interpreters demonstrate Native and European arts and crafts. Bring the children out on Saturdays, were they can learn about Native American mask painting and paint one to take home for themselves.

Daily Schedule for activities at CampUzita: Portrayed by living history rangers, and local volunteers at De Soto National Memorial

De Soto The Untold Stories – Come explore with us the differences in Spanish and Native Southeast cultures as they were thrust together upon the land known to the Spanish as La Florida. Hear about some of the lesser known stories of people involved in the events of 1539. Learn about the unique events and individual histories that helped shape Florida and North America for the next 500 years.

Times: 10:00, 11:30, 1:00, 2:30

Weapon demonstrations follow each presentation.

Daily Camp demonstrations will include*

Blacksmithing              16^th Century Cooking              Native Arrowhead Crafting

Heraldry                      Pottery/ Basket making           16^th Century Camp Life

*Daily demonstrations offered are subject to change, due to staffing and weather.

Our Visitor Center offers a short 22 minute film Hernando De Soto in America about the expedition, a bookstore, restrooms, and a staffed information desk. The park also has over one mile of trails, beaches, and a scenic picnic area.

De Soto National Memorial is located at the end of 75^th Street NW in Bradenton.  Entrance to the park is free, as are all activities.  The Park is open from sunrise to sunset; the Visitor Center and parking area close at 5:00 p.m.   The camp will be open daily this season from December 15^th through March 30^th. The park is closed Christmas, and New Years Days.

The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage. EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA