FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  February 19, 2004
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112                                

Collier-Seminole State Park Celebrates Annual Native American & Pioneer Festival

 --Battle reenactment commemorates Billy Bowlegs’ War--

NAPLES - Florida is bringing history alive at Collier-Seminole State Park with the annual Native American & Pioneer Festival, commemorating the 147th anniversary of the Battle of Royal Palm Hammock. The two-day festival features a reenactment of the historic battle between Seminole Chief Billy Bowlegs and American settlers, along with live folk music and Native American crafts and food.

“The Collier-Seminole Festival is another celebration of Florida’s rich historic past and cultural traditions,” said Florida State Park Service Director Mike Bullock. “This festival is a tribute to the Native Americans that lived and fought along what is now the Tamiami Trail.”

The Third Seminole War, also known as the Billy Bowlegs' War, began in 1855 when Seminole Indians led by Bowlegs attacked a military survey party of settlers. The three-year war ended after the Chief and more than 100 Seminole warriors surrendered. While captives were transported to Indian Territory west of Texas, a few hundred remaining Seminoles retreated deep into the Everglades -- the ancestors of today’s Florida Seminoles.

Visitors to the Festival will re-live history by witnessing active Seminole and soldier encampments along with the reenactment of the historical clash. The melodies of Mindy Simmons and Eddie Kinder, James Hawkins, Steve Blackwell and Friends, Ron and Bari Litschauer, the Roadside Review and Telegraph Creek will also fill the air. Native American crafts, exhibits and food as well as Seminole and Miccosukee tribal guests will entertain visitors at the annual event.