The Building of Castello De San Marcosnational Park Service Interpretive Series, History No. 1

A historical account written in the mid-20th century. This book details the construction and significance of the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest existing masonry fort in the United States, emphasizing its strategic importance in defending Spanish interests in Florida during the late 17th century. It explores the complex interactions between colonial powers and illustrates the fort's role in the broader context of European military architecture adapted to the New World. The narrative unfolds with the backdrop of Spanish Florida's precarious situation due to increasing pirate attacks and English encroachments, culminating in the decision to construct Castillo de San Marcos. Manucy outlines the elaborate processes involved in the fort's construction, including the use of local materials and labor, notably involving Indigenous workers, convicts, and enslaved people. The book delves into the various challenges faced during its construction, such as funding shortages, labor shortages, and the ever-present threat of English invasions. It culminates in the fort's eventual completion and its role in multiple conflicts, including the Siege of 1740, before its transition from a military stronghold to a historical monument.