The History of Fort Pierce

1000 BC — Region is inhabited by indigenous people known as the Ais, who live along the Indian River lagoon, including what would become the original site of Fort Pierce.

1715 — A hurricane sinks Spanish ships laden with silver and gold off the Treasure Coast, including what would become Fort Pierce, on the night of July 31.

1838 — U.S. Army builds Fort Pierce during the Second Seminole War, naming it after commander Lt. Col. Benjamin K. Pierce.

1842 — With the end of the Second Seminole War, Fort Pierce is decommissioned, and Dr. Frederick Weedon begins leasing the fort as an inn.

1843 — A fire originating in the fort’s kitchen the night of Dec. 12 destroys all the buildings, closing down Weedon’s inn.

1843 — Eight settlers establish the community of Susannah on the Indian River 3 miles south of modern-day Fort Pierce.

1870s — More Euro-American settlers begin arriving. Commercial fishing, pineapple farming, cattle raising and lumber harvesting are the main industries.

1874 — Settler Alfred Lagow arrives and names the area north of Moore’s Creek Edgartown, after his grandson, Edgar Bowman.