De Soto National Memorial

De Soto National Memorial, located on the south shore of the Manatee River, commemorates the first major European exploration of the North American interior. A visitor center contains historic displays of armor and weaponry, maps, and a replica of one of de Soto's ships; a short film depicting the expedition is shown throughout the day. An outdoor exhibit on the north porch outlines probable archaeological sites associated with the four-year expedition.

Crossbow and arquebus (matchlock musket) demonstrations are given at Camp Ucita (a reproduction of the 16th-century Indian village that the de Soto expedition used as a base camp), open from from late December to early April. Park rangers also demonstrate blacksmithing, cooking, and armor repair. Special films or demonstrations can be arranged for groups by pre-arrangement.

The park is open daily, year-round; located 5 miles west of Bradenton.

Location: PO Box 15390, 75th Street NW, Bradenton Beach Florida 34280 Telephone 941-792-0458 Fax 941-792-5094

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