First Mass in Florida-April 16, 1528
Posted by: 
Markerman62
N 27° 47.317 W 082° 45.239
17R E 327193 N 3075020
Located at the end of Elbow Ln N at the boat ramp and dock.
Waymark Code: WMYEPH
Location: Florida, United States
Date Posted: 06/06/2018
Views: 4
In April 1528, The Spanish explorer Panfilo de Narvaez arrived here with 5 ships and 600 men in a quest for gold and power. Also with him were those who sought to spread Christianity, including eight diocesan and five Franciscan priests. One of those priests, Fr. Juan Xuarez, OFM, had received an appointment as Bishop of Florida. A few days after their arrival, Fr. Xuarez celebrated Easter Mass ashore on the morning of April 16th. After another ten days in the area which included several violent encounters with the native Tocobaga peoples. Narvaez along with half of the crew (including 5 priests) headed north on land in what would prove to be an ill-fated expedition. Eight years later in 1536, a mere four survivors made it to Mexico.
Marker Number: None
Date: None
County: Pinellas
Marker Type: Plaque
Sponsored or placed by: Diocese of St. Petersburg
Website: Not listed
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