Fort Pierce, Florida, is a city with a rich history that dates back thousands of years, starting with its earliest inhabitants, the Ais Native American tribe. Here’s an overview of its historical development:
Pre-European Settlement
The Ais people lived along Florida’s east coast, including the area now known as Fort Pierce, for centuries before European contact. They were skilled fishers and navigators who utilized the region’s abundant waterways for sustenance.
Early European Contact
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, but permanent European settlement did not occur immediately. The Ais people gradually declined due to diseases brought by Europeans and conflicts during colonization.
Seminole Wars and Fort Establishment
The modern history of Fort Pierce began during the Second Seminole War (1835–1842), when the U.S. Army built a military outpost named Fort Pierce in 1838. It was named after Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Kendrick Pierce, the brother of President Franklin Pierce. The fort was used as a base for operations against the Seminole people and helped establish control over the region.
Post-Seminole War Era
After the Seminole Wars, settlers began arriving in the area to establish small agricultural and fishing communities. Pineapples, citrus fruits, and cattle ranching became important industries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Development in the 20th Century
Fort Pierce was incorporated as a city in 1901. Its economy grew with the development of the Florida East Coast Railway, which connected the area to other parts of the state and brought an influx of residents and businesses. During this period, the fishing industry, particularly for commercial fish and shrimp, became a cornerstone of the local economy.
Role in World War II
During World War II, Fort Pierce gained national attention as the site of the U.S. Navy’s amphibious training base. Soldiers trained there for beach landings, preparing for operations like D-Day. This contributed to the city’s growth and established it as a military hub.
Modern Fort Pierce
In recent decades, Fort Pierce has worked to preserve its historical character while embracing modernization. The city’s downtown area has been revitalized with restored historic buildings, cultural landmarks, and museums like the A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery and the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum, which honors the Navy’s special operations forces.
Fort Pierce is also known for its natural beauty, including the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most biodiverse estuaries in the Northern Hemisphere. It retains its charm as a small coastal city with strong ties to its cultural and historical roots.
