History comes to life

INVERNESS — The aroma of food being cooked over an open campfire and black-

powder smoke bursting through the air will greet spectators this weekend during a re-enactment of the Second Seminole War, which took place during the mid-1800s.

The annual Fort Cooper Days, hosted by the Friends of Fort Cooper, offers plenty of Florida history from 

9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Fort Cooper State Park, 3100 S. Old Floral City 

Road., Inverness. Re-enactments are scheduled both days at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

“During that time, Fort Cooper was utilized to house wounded soldiers, while others marched to Fort Brook in Tampa,” said park ranger Dianne Drye. 

Before and after the re-enactment, guests are encouraged to visit with men and women who portray U.S. settlers, soldiers and Seminoles. Period acts, living history demonstrations, crafts, food and exhibits will reflect Florida’s history and heritage.

“We recommend people get here at least 30 minutes prior to the re-enactment to allow for ample time to get to the fort site,” Drye said.

Drye said during the re-enactment of the battle between soldiers and Seminoles, cannons and guns featuring black-

powder smoke will be fired. Protective barriers will be in place and pet owners should consider their pet’s sensitivity to loud sounds.

Transportation will be available at the west end of the picnic area. 

Proceeds will be used to support other free events at the park, such as Nights of Lights. Funds are also used to make park improvements. 

For more information call Fort Cooper State Park at 352-729-0315.

Contact Chronicle reporter Eryn Worthington at 352-563-5660, ext. 1334, or eworthington@chronicleonline.com. 

* WHAT: Fort Cooper Days. 

* WHEN: Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reenactments at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Visitors encouraged to arrive 30 minutes prior to re-enactments.

* WHERE: Fort Cooper State Park, 3100 S. Old Floral City Road, Inverness. 

* COST: $6 for adults; children 12 years and younger free. 

* INFORMATION: www.floridastateparks.org/fortcooper, or 352-726-0315.