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At Indian Key Historic State Park, in the year 1831, Jacob Housman embarked on the journey to establish his wrecking empire, challenging the existing monopoly in Key West. In that era, salvaging cargo from shipwrecks was not only lawful but also immensely profitable. Housman’s empire boasted a store, a hotel, residences, cisterns, warehouses, and wharves. Renowned for his dubious business dealings, he engaged in frequent disputes with fellow salvagers.

By 1836, seeking autonomy from Key West, Housman petitioned the Legislative Council to declare Indian Key as Dade County’s inaugural county seat. Regrettably, Housman’s prosperity dwindled as he encountered legal defeats and ultimately lost his wrecker’s license.

Subsequently, in December 1838, Dr. Henry Perrine relocated to Indian Key alongside his family, anticipating the conclusion of the war. Dr. Perrine aspired to utilize a government grant to cultivate beneficial tropical flora on the mainland.

In the fateful year 1840, the island fell under attack by indigenous peoples, attracted by its well-stocked depot. With the exception of one edifice, the structures of Indian Key lay in ruins. Tragically, Dr. Perrine lost his life in the conflict, but many residents, including Housman, successfully escaped.

Presently, only remnants of stone foundations stand as silent witnesses to bygone events.

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