LIVE WEBCAMS FOR AMELIA ISLAND, FL AND FERNANDINA BEACH

Amelia Island, located in Nassau County in northeastern Florida, has a rich and diverse history spanning over 4,000 years. Often called the “Isle of Eight Flags,” it is the only location in the United States to have been under the dominion of eight different national flags. Here’s a concise look at its fascinating past:

 

Pre-Colonial and Native American Era

Originally inhabited by the Timucua people, who lived in the region for centuries before European contact.

 

They thrived through fishing, hunting, and agriculture and left behind shell mounds and other archaeological traces.

 

Colonial Rule: The Eight Flags

French (1562–1565)

 

French Huguenots briefly settled the area, though their presence was short-lived.

 

Spanish (First Rule: 1565–1763)

 

Spain claimed Florida and established missions in the region, including on Amelia Island.

 

The island was named “Amelia” by the Spanish in honor of Princess Amelia of Great Britain.

 

British (1763–1783)

 

After the Treaty of Paris (1763), Britain gained control and developed plantations using enslaved labor.

 

Spanish (Second Rule: 1783–1821)

 

Spain regained Florida after the American Revolutionary War, though control was weak and contested.

 

Patriots (1812)

 

American settlers backed by U.S. forces briefly took the island during the "Patriot War" before abandoning it.

 

Green Cross of Florida (1817)

 

A short-lived rebellion led by Scottish adventurer Gregor MacGregor, who claimed the island for revolutionary Latin America.

 

Mexican Rebel Flag (1817)

 

Pirates under Louis Aury took the island shortly after MacGregor, claiming it for revolutionary Mexico.

 

United States (1821–Present)

 

The U.S. formally acquired Florida in 1821. Amelia Island became part of the new U.S. territory and later the state of Florida in 1845.

 

Civil War and Postbellum

Occupied by Union troops early in the Civil War due to its strategic port and rail connections.

 

After the war, the island transitioned from a plantation economy to one centered around shipping, tourism, and lumber.

 

Modern Era

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Fernandina Beach, the main town on Amelia Island, became a bustling Victorian seaport.

 

Today, Amelia Island is known for its historic preservation, beaches, resorts, and annual events like the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival.