Convocation of Seminole War Historians
Seminole Wars Foundation Organizes Convocation of Seminole War Historians
Although historians speak of three Seminole wars, the Seminole people think of the years 1817 to 1858 as the time of a single conflict. While the general public’s knowledge of this key period in our nation’s history is limited, there is persistent scholarship and strong, but localized, interest in it.
This fragmentation of interest and effort inspired the Seminole Wars Foundation to organize the first Convocation of Seminole War Historians as an event open to all.
The Convocation in St. Augustine was the exciting inaugural of this concept—gathering people of varying backgrounds throughout Florida and beyond who share the common goal of increasing knowledge in, and enthusiasm for, the lessons of the Seminole Wars.
St. Augustine Ushers in First-Ever Convocation in 2017
The event incorporated an annual commemoration, organized by the West Point Society of North Florida—a simple, yet poignant, remembrance of the 1842 re-interment ceremony that closed the Second Seminole War. We designed a Convocation that expanded the commemoration’s scope and duration into a multi-day event, to attract all interested in the history of the Seminole Wars, a history so important for both Florida and the nation as a whole.
Many attendees did not consider themselves historians, yet their presence and participation showed that they were! Regardless of education, vocation, books read or sites visited, anyone caring enough to attend was by definition a Seminole Wars historian. There was no mistaking the successful, exciting outcome.
Just think of it. A unique stage was set for those representing a host of occupations and backgrounds to convene, interact, and mutually benefit to pursue common historical interests. Attendees included a teacher, firefighter, pediatrician, author, electrician, archaeologist, professor, attorney, editor, land developer, retired army colonel, retailer, tribal court justice, singer, public relations professional, and architect. Collectively they made the Convocation an exciting success, advanced public interest in this critical period, and laid the basis for future gatherings—the primary goals of its organizers.
A total of 137 people registered for the first Convocation with attendance varying by event. The Saturday parade/ceremony about 80; at least 120 for the lunch program in Trinity Hall. The Saturday evening talk by John and Mary Lou Missall at the Ringhaver Student Center drew about 70 listeners, with their talk about the life of Captain John Vinton and his new biography, “The Army Is My Calling.” Eighty-five attended the Sunday session at the Mark Lance Armory which included the presentation of the Frank Laumer Legacy Award that was presented to Frank at the meeting. The total estimated economic impact to the county for the event was $23,000. 87% of the attendees came from 31 different counties outside of St. Johns. The long-term plan is to have this as a biennial (every other year) event.
Here’s to Future Convocations Across the State of Florida!
