Fort Matanzas was built in 1742 by the Spanish to guard the Matanzas Inlet or the southern approach to the military settlement of St. Augustine. It was constructed on marsh land making it a difficult build requiring pilings for stability and coquina (sedimentary rock, fossilized shells and corals) for structure.
Once operational it was manned by four infantry men, one officer and two gunners. The fort only saw combat in 1742 when it fired upon 12 approaching British ships.
National Monument status was proclaimed in 1924. Fort Matanzas was transferred from the War Department to the National Park Service on August 10, 1933. As a historic area under the Park Service, the National Monument was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966.
We're a small workshop of 15 crew members in Wooster, Ohio who love our jobs of crafting replicas that hold deep meaning for you! Satisfy your St. Augustine decorating itch with this keepsake, and while you're at it, add more pieces to make a Village! Look for Casper, our mascot black cat, taking up residence within the design. This is the sign of an authentic Cat’s Meow!
