Preservation of Okeechobee Battlefield

By Moses Osceola, President

HOLLYWOOD — On April 4, the governor and the state of Florida approved the purchase of 145 acres of land. This land is a portion of the site where a great battle between Seminoles and U.S. soldiers was fought on Christmas Day, 1837 in Okeechobee.

The acquisition of this site caps the efforts of many who have dedicated much time and effort towards the preservation of this site. I would like to thank State Representative Richard Machek, Shawn Henderson and the Friends of the Okeechobee Battlefield, Chairman Mitchell Cypress, the late Billy L. Cypress, Bill Steele, tribal historic preservation officer, Tribal citizens, Dowling Watford, Okeechobee city councilman, and others who have supported this effort.

The battlefield preservation memorializes our Seminole, Creek, and other Native Americans who fought against U.S. forces in order to preserve our right to stay in Florida. It gives me great pride after hearing and reading of the ferocity and determination of our people to defend our land and way of life.

I am both proud and honored to be a descendant of our ancestors who fought so hard for you and me; they accomplished their mission because we are still home. Today, we carry our ancestor’s efforts in the courtrooms and board rooms of America.

I am hopeful that the State of Florida will involve our Tribe in its efforts to establish a memorial park that will pay tribute to both the Seminole and U.S. warriors. Again, many thanks to the state for recognizing the importance of preserving this battlefield site.