Why Key West Was Originally Named "Bone Island

The fierce Calusa Indians were said to leave the remains of their enemies on the beaches of Key West, thus creating Key West's first name, Cayo Hueso... Island of Bones.

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Conch Republic Independence Celebration

 

"Dedicated to the fundamentally American spirit of a people unafraid to stand up to 'government gone mad with power'

 

Conch Republic Independence Celebration FAQ's:



Question: What is the Conch Republic Independence Celebration?

Answer: In order to understand the Celebration you must first understand what the celebration is for.

In 1982 the U.S. Border Patrol began setting up road blocks on Highway 1 at Florida City just to the north of the Florida Keys. Vehicles were stopped and searched for narcotics and illegal immigrants. After the complaints from the Key West City Council went unanswered by the Federal Government and attempts to get an injunction against the "blockade" failed in court, Key West mayor Dennis Wardlow and the city council declared the independence of the Conch Republic on April 23, 1982.

Question: What can I expect to see at the celebration?

Answer: The celebration has a wide variety of events, so go to our Editor's Choice link for a schedule of events.

Question: When is the Conch Republic Independence Celebration?

Answer: The celebration is held annually in late April.

Editors Choice:
Conch Independence Celebration
Check out the official Conch Independence Celebration page featuring a complete schedule of events.

Further Conch Republic Information:
Conch Republic
Conch Republic FAQ's, general, official site, and more.

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