Community Corner

Learn History Of Cuban Fishermen In Manatee County; Tour Perico Preserve Thursday

Cuban fishermen called Ranchos lived in thriving communities along FL's shores, including in what is now Manatee County, in the late 1600s.

Cuban fishermen called Ranchos lived in thriving communities along FL’s shores, including in what is now Manatee County, in the late 1600s.
Cuban fishermen called Ranchos lived in thriving communities along FL’s shores, including in what is now Manatee County, in the late 1600s. (Courtesy of Manatee County Government)

MANATEE COUNTY, FL β€” In the late 1600s, Florida’s shores β€” including the area that is now Manatee County β€” hosting thriving communities of Cuban fishermen known as Ranchos, the county shared on its Facebook page.

The county will host a bilingual tour of the coastal habitat of Perico Preserve, a wildlife sanctuary at 11700 Manatee Ave. West in Bradenton, Thursday, 6 to 7 p.m. The tour will meet at the preserve entrance.

The tour guide will discuss the history of the Ranchos in Manatee County, including the preserve’s namesake, Perico Pompon, and the obstacles these communities faced, the county said.

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The free program is suitable for teens and adults. Reservations, which are required, can be made online here. Call 941-742-5923 ext. 6044 with any additional questions.

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