Discovery Series Ornament – Jacksonville
I have to admit that some of the color combinations from the new series look better than others. The design of the brand-new Discovery Series Ornament – Jacksonville is a great example, where the mix of red, blue, and green just works and makes it appealing, at least to me.
Jacksonville’s rich history spans over 6,000 years, beginning with the Timucua people who originally inhabited the area along the St. Johns River. In 1564, French explorers established Fort Caroline near present-day Jacksonville, creating one of the earliest European settlements in North America and the first Protestant colony in America. The first permanent settlement was founded in 1791 and called Cowford due to its location at a narrow river crossing where cattle once forded the waters. In 1822, a year after the United States acquired Florida from Spain, the city was renamed Jacksonville in honor of Andrew Jackson, the first military governor of the Florida Territory who later became President. Today, Jacksonville stands as a thriving metropolis with over a million citizens and holds the distinction of being the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States.
– The Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins are among Jacksonville’s most beloved marine residents, frequently spotted playing in the waves along the city’s pristine beaches. These intelligent mammals have made the coastal waters their permanent home, often delighting visitors and locals alike with their acrobatic displays near fishing piers and boat tours. Their presence serves as a living symbol of Jacksonville’s healthy marine ecosystem and its commitment to preserving coastal wildlife.
– Jacksonville’s famous Mayport Shrimp have become legendary along the coast, with the Mayport Shrimp Trail showcasing the best local seafood establishments throughout the area. Local restaurants like the Shrimp Shack have been serving Northeast Florida’s finest seafood since 2010, specializing in fresh, fast preparation of these prized crustaceans. From coconut shrimp to traditional fried preparations, Jacksonville’s shrimp dishes represent the authentic taste of coastal Florida cuisine and remain a must-try experience for any visitor.
– The St. Johns River flows as Jacksonville’s defining geographic feature, one of the few major rivers in the United States that flows northward toward the Atlantic Ocean. This ancient waterway served as the primary reason for the city’s founding, providing fresh water, transportation, and abundant fish for both Native American settlements and later European colonists. Today, the river continues to be the heart of Jacksonville’s identity, supporting commerce, recreation, and the city’s role as a major southeastern port.
– Jacksonville’s extensive coastline and inland waterways make it a paradise for jet skiing and sailing enthusiasts who flock to the area year-round. The convergence of river and ocean provides unique opportunities for both high-speed jet ski adventures through winding waterways and peaceful sailing excursions along the Atlantic coast. Whether racing through the St. Johns River channels or catching ocean breezes on a sunset sail, Jacksonville’s waters offer endless possibilities for aquatic recreation and unforgettable maritime experiences.
