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Hernández–Capron Trail facts for kids

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Hernandez–Capron Trail
Length 200 mi (320 km)
Location Volusia County and Brevard County, Florida, United States

The Hernández–Capron Trail, also known as the Hernández Trail, is a very old and important path in Eastern Florida. It stretches about 200 miles between New Smyrna in Volusia County and Fort Pierce in St. Lucie County. This trail was the very first road connecting St. Augustine to the Fort Pierce area. It was originally created by Joseph Marion Hernández through a natural landform called the Atlantic Coastal Ridge. Today, much of the trail goes through wild areas, but some parts are in developed towns.

The Hernandez–Capron Trail

What is This Trail?

The Hernandez–Capron Trail is a historic path in Florida. It was built a long time ago, during a period called the Seminole Wars. The trail helped connect different forts and settlements along Florida's east coast. It was a vital route for soldiers and supplies.

Who Was Joseph M. Hernandez?

The trail was named after Joseph Marion Hernández. He was born in 1792 in St. Augustine, Florida. Hernández was a very important person in early Florida history. He was the first person from Florida to serve in the United States Congress. He also held many other important jobs in East Florida. During the Seminole War, he was a general. In 1837, he captured the famous Seminole chief, Osceola.

Finding the Trail's History

You can find a special historical marker about the Hernandez Trail in Cocoa. This marker helps people remember the trail's importance. It is located on West King Street (which is also Florida Route 520). The marker tells us that the trail was used during the Seminole War. It connected forts along the east coast to places like Fort Dallas in Miami. It also linked Fort Pierce and Fort Capron to Fort Brooke near Tampa.

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