We discovered this small park while driving around near our hotel just east of the Bridge of Lions. Located in the neighborhood north of Anastasia Blvd on the Matanzas River, the obelisk & three cannons stick out rather awkwardly in this residential area. Away from the historical plaques and monuments, we spotted a small play ground at the far end of the park. Parking is free, and on the street around the park.
Several historical markers explain that this is the site of El Fozo, the main battery led by General James Oglethorpe against the Castillo de San Marcos in a failed siege of St Augustine from late June through mid July, 1740. The nearly impenetrable coquina walls of the Castillo during the weeks-long battle, along with a desperately-needed provisions delivery from Havana to St Augustine, resulted in a military stalemate. This no-win situation, plus the impending hurricane season, forced General Oglethorpe to retreat back to Georgia. I was intrigued to learn this anecdote of (pre) Florida history!
[Review #30 of 2021] read more