Battle of Bloody Mose 2022
Historic reenactors bring the 1740 battle of Fort Mose to life during an all-day event that includes demonstrations and children's activities.
The 1740 Spanish victory at the Battle of Bloody Mose will be re-enacted by members of Florida Living History Inc. on Saturday, June 25, 2022 — in the exact location of the original battle.
On this 282nd anniversary of the battle, visitors can see firsthand how the skirmish unfolded and how the inhabitants at Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose (Fort Mose) forced the British to retreat from Spanish Florida. British troops had captured the Spanish forts in the area and were making plans to overtake the Castillo de San Marcos. They were vanquished in a surprise early morning attack by an alliance of Spanish troops, Fort Mose militia, and native allies.
Reenactments of the battle itself will take place at 11:00 a.m. and at 1:00 p.m. Other activities throughout the day include musket demonstrations and colonial Florida craft-making stations, as well as a variety of free children's activities, plus food and craft vendors.
Admission: The event is free. Admission to the park grounds is also free. Children under 6 are always free. Donations are appreciated. There is a $2.00 fee to enter the Visitor's Center.
When: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 25, 2022. The opening ceremony of the event is at 10:00 a.m., and the two Battle re-enactments are at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. The event ends with a closing ceremony at 2:00 p.m.
Where: Fort Mose Historic State Park is located just north of the historic district, at 15 Fort Mose Trail St. Augustine, FL 32084.
Participants: The Fort Mose Historical Society appreciates the support and participation of its partners, including the Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine Garrison, and the reenactor groups who serve as "opposing forces."
Call (904) 823-2232 or visit here for more information.
History of the Battle of Bloody Mose: This battle was a part of the larger conflict between Spain and Great Britain, who were vying for control of la Florida. The British were attempting to take the Castillo de San Marcos, and already occupied Fort Mose. An English militia consisting mostly of farmers seeking their runaway slaves occupied Fort Mose. Two days later, Mose's men returned with some Spaniards and native allies to reclaim their fort. They ambushed the sleeping intruders at four o'clock in the morning. By the end of the attack, the fort was burned and the English survivors returned home to tell about "Bloody Moosa." The rest of Oglethorpe's troops continued to assault St. Augustine from the harbor, but the Mose ambush turned the tide. The Spaniards and Africans stood their ground from the Castillo de San Marcos.
Please note: Parking at Fort Mose Historic State Park is limited. Satellite parking with a shuttle service is available at the County Health Department lot, 200 San Sebastian View. Coastal Transportation will begin a free shuttle service at 9:30 a.m. Tipping is appreciated. The last shuttle from Fort Mose will be at 2:30 p.m.
