FL H9129

Recognizes the Hernando de Soto Winter Encampment Site in Tallahassee as the location of America's first organized Christmas celebration in 1539

Site is located on the grounds of the Governor John Martin House and is currently a small, largely undeveloped state park being considered for nomination as a National Historic Landmark

Archaeologists B. Calvin Jones and Charles Ewan discovered early 16th-century Spanish artifacts at the site, including coins, chain mail armor pieces, crossbow bolt tips, distinctive pottery, and pig bones associated with the de Soto expedition

2013 marks the 500th anniversary of European arrival in the continental United States, with Spain's claim to Florida beginning in 1513

Viva Florida 500 commemorates how multiple nationalities and diverse cultures thrived together in Florida and continue to shape America