A former plantation Mala Compra means “bad bargain” an archaeological site founded by workers who were cleaning the site for Bing’s Landing Park at 5862 N Ocean Shore Boulevard in Palm Coast. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.
Walk up the paved walkway to the archaeological site and listen to a narrated story by Joseph M. Hernandez. The first Hispanic U.S. Senator a Minorcan born in St. Augustine in the late 18th century. His parents came to Florida from Minorca an island off the coast of Spain.
Walk throughout the site and read the plaques that depict the historical account of the daily lives of the enslaved people. Joseph Hernandez also owned San Jose and Bella Vista plantations. When he was away on business his wife Ana Maria ran the plantations.
Plantations were made of tabby and coquina. Push a button on the interpretive exhibits throughout the site that lights up the well, hearth in the kitchen, and the main hearth in the house.
Mala Compra was abandoned at the start of The Second Seminole War that started in 1835. The residents fled to St. Augustine. The army occupied the plantation and when the soldiers temporarily evacuated the Seminoles came back and burned down the buildings. Several slaves were captured, and the rest were let go. The war lasted over six years and ended in 1842. In 1845 Joseph Hernandez was elected mayor of St. Augustine.
After visiting the site sit on a bench and look out at the Intracoastal Waterway. and watch the boaters launch their boats. Bring a pair of binoculars for viewing wildlife, a playground for children, a pavilion for picnics with tables and grills. I recommend the park and archaeological site as a wonderful way to spend the day.
On The Road in Florida With Idelle! 