Just over one week into Black History Month in 2024, hundreds of people came to the historic Fort Mose in St. Augustine to listen to one of hip-hop’s most legendary acts: Common.

Fort Mose was established as the first free black community by Spanish decree in the 1700′s. It’s original intent was as an early warning system for the Spanish in St. Augustine against the British forces further north. Many may have heard the name of the fort but know very little of its history since the fort was destroyed and eventually buried underwater. You can see remnants depending on the tide flow. To ensure, future generations understand the importance and history of Fort Mose, the Fort Mose Historical Society and St. Johns Cultural Council have implemented a plan to build a replica of the fort and its buildings. Rance met with FMHS board members to get a bit more insight into the history and future plans.

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – Black culture stretches further back in St. Augustine history than many may know. “It is a story that needs to be told by everyone and anyone that will listen,” said Fort Mose Historical Society President Charles Ellis. News4Jax's Kent Justice speaks with historian and re-enactor James Bullock and Fort Mose Historical Society President Charles Ellis. “Fort Mose is the birthplace of freedom,” Ellis said. We just need to acknowledge it and to see how that changed people’s lives.”AdTo learn more about Fort Mose, visit the historical society’s website.

If you have enjoyed the outdoors in St. Johns County, you likely spent time at Vilano Beach Oceanfront Park, Canopy Shores Park, or Fort Mose. Saving land from development in St. Johns County will become more attainable this year with new county funds on the way. But a decision will be made Jan. 19 to determine how much money is allocated for land conservation. LAMP sets aside a special revenue fund to help St. Johns compete with other counties for matching state and regional land conservation funds, such as Florida Forever. According to St. Johns County Soil & Water Conservation Group 3 representative Nicole Crosby, Dean requested $500,000 in seed money, which was later lowered to $370,000 per year.