Time Sifters Archaeology Society presents: Mocama (Timucua) Indians and Spanish Missions: Life Beneath the Bell

Admission is Free. When most people think of Spanish Missions, they think of California, New Mexico, or even Texas. What many do not realize is that the Spanish Mission system in La Florida occurred earlier and lasted longer than it did in any of those other areas. Among the Mocama-speaking Timucua of northeastern Florida, mission communities existed between 1587 and 1702. This lecture discusses Mocama life under the mission bell, with emphasis on archaeological excavations at San Juan del Puerto and Santa Cruz de Guadalquini in Jacksonville, Florida. Keith Ashley holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from the University of Florida. His current research focuses on the histories and cultures of Native Americans in Florida before and after European arrival. Beyond research and teaching, his aim is to draw UNF students into “hands-on” archaeology through fieldwork and laboratory analysis in an effort to prepare them for graduate school and a career in archaeology. Check out the UNF Archaeology Lab Facebook page www.facebook.com/pages/UNF-Archaeology-Lab/189192697784752