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 The Timucuan Indians were the
first inhabitants of Hontoon Island. Snails gathered from the shallows
of the St. Johns River were a staple food of these people. Through the
years, the discarded shells accumulated to form the two large mounds we
see today.
A large owl totem and a frog/otter, carved by
the Indians more then 600 years ago, was discovered nearby in 1955. A
replica of this totem stands in the picnic area as a tribute to the
artistry and craftsmanship of the extinct culture.
In later years, the 1,650-acre island was a
pioneer homestead, a boat yard, a center for commercial fishing and a
cattle ranch before being purchased for use as a state park in 1967.
The scenery of the island varies with the
elevation. Pine Flatwoods occur on the higher areas, while palm/oak
hammocks, cypress swamps and marshes border the St. Johns River and its
tributaries. The abundant wildlife found here is as varied as the
scenery and the seasons.
Hontoon Island is
cared for by the Hontoon
Island CSO.
Please visit their web site!
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For more information on the evolution of this area please visit:
WEST VOLUSIA AND THE ST. JOHNS RIVER
- A 15,000-YEAR LOVE AFFAIR -
For more information about other
state parks please visit:
The
Planet DeLand Encounter's State Park Section
Other West Volusia State
Parks:
Deleon
Springs I Blue
Springs
- Welcome
| Park
Features | Highlights
| Fee's &
Rentals | Virtual
Tour -
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