Forgotten Florida Series
by Richard Procyk

Palm Beach County purchased the land in l978, but were unaware of the historical significance of the park until several historical advocates advised them in the early l990's. Acting on this information, the county brought in archaeologists who were impressed with the density of prehistoric material. They also suggested that there was "evidence of a continual time line of use of the area by historic and prehistoric civilizations as far back as the Paleo-Indian period." (10,000 B.C. to 6500 B.C.) Their survey resulted in the assessment of 50 historic, archaeological and architectural sites which include: prehistoric villages and camps, two 19th century Seminole villages, evidence of the two battles fought in the Second Seminole War (January, l838), pioneer homesteads, farms, packing houses; In fact, almost every aspect of human history and inhabitation of Palm Beach County is represented in the park. The correct location of this history may have remained unknown as the state had the Battle of the Loxahatchee in the wrong place- Martin County.

Preserving History:

To protect and preserve this store-house of multi-level history, the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners recently designated Riverbend Park a historic district. Almost lost to history, the true location of the Battle of the Loxahatchee was finally confirmed and hopefully the park will be placed into the National Register of Historic Places.Visitors that come to Florida often complain that we have no history. Unfortunately, some long time residents are also unaware of the significant history that surrounds us. A case in point is Riverbend Park, located in west Jupiter. Early pioneers and citrus grove planters dug, drained, filled, and in general contaminated the archaeological treasure trove of history that lies along the Loxahatchee River at Indiantown Road.

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