InUSA Tour Guide

Kingsley Plantation

Jacksonville, Florida

In the early years of the 19th century, many people came to Spanish Florida. Some, like Zephaniah Kingsley, sought to make their fortunes by obtaining land and establishing plantations. Others were forced to come to Florida to work on those plantations, their labor enriching the men who owned them. Some of the enslaved would later become free landowners, struggling to keep their footing in a dangerous time of shifting alliances and politics. All of these people played a part in the history of Kingsley Plantation.

Kingley Plantation symbolizes a time and a place in history. More than that, Kingsley Plantation represents people, free and enslaved, ordinary and extraordinary, and their efforts to survive in a changing land. The stories of these people, often heroic, and their contributions to history can be explored at Kingsley Plantation.

Planter's Residence. Zephaniah Kingsley and other owners lived in this house which may date to 1798. The original floorplan is unusual, consisting of a 2-story central area with four square corner rooms. The visitor center and historical exhibits are located in this structure.

Kitchen House. On many plantations cooking was done in a separate building to keep accidental kitchen fires from spreading to other structures. Additional exhibits are located in this house.

Garden. Most of the year visitors can see Sea Island cotton growing in the garden and learn about cultivation of plantation crops. The primary crop of the plantation, Sea Island cotton fields once covered much of Fort George Island.

Barn. Tabby was an oyster shell concrete used on many coastal plantations. Both tabby brick and poured tabby were used in the construction of this barn.

The Slave Quarters. Ruins of 23 tabby cabins stand as reminders of the enslaved men, women and children who once lived and worked on the plantation. One cabin has been restored to its original appearance.

LOCATION: 11676 Palmetto Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32226. Phone 904-251-3537.

HOURS: Daily 9 AM to 5 PM except Christmas Day.

ADMISSION: Operated by the National Park Service by donation.

DIRECTIONS: Kingsley Plantation is located on Fort George Island north of the Mayport Ferry landing on Route A1A. Turn as directed and follow read 3 miles to the Plantation.