The sights and sounds of 1565 will return to the grounds where St. Augustine’s story began during the 461st St. Augustine Founders’ Day Celebration Saturday, Sept. 12, at Mission Nombre de Dios.
The public is invited to experience a day that brings together the city’s Spanish colonial history and Catholic heritage through historical reenactment, a civic proclamation outdoor Mass and procession.
The celebration begins at 10 a.m. at Mission Nombre de Dios, 101 San Marco Ave., with the Historic Florida Militia reenacting the landing of Pedro Menéndez de Avilés and his crew. Their portrayal brings to life the arrival of the Spanish settlers, their encounter with the native inhabitants and the founding of St. Augustine. Mayor Nancy Sikes-Kline will deliver the traditional Founders’ Day proclamation.
The Historic Florida Militia has reenacted the landing at Mission Nombre de Dios since 2016. Members research the people and events they portray, paying careful attention to period clothing and other details that help transport spectators back to 16th-century St. Augustine.
Following the reenactment, Bishop Erik Pohlmeier of the Diocese of St. Augustine will celebrate Mass at the Rustic Altar. The liturgy continues a tradition of giving thanks to God that began with the Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated after the Spanish expedition arrived in 1565. Guests should bring folding chairs for the outdoor Mass.
At noon, participants are invited to join the annual procession from Mission Nombre de Dios to the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, retracing a route associated with the city's earliest days.
Among the civic and community leaders expected to attend are St. Augustine City Commissioners Cynthia Garris and Jim Springfield, City Manager David Birchim, Communications Director Melissa Wissel and Honorary Consul General to Spain Sonia San Juan.
Founders’ Day commemorates the Sept. 8, 1565, founding of St. Augustine and celebrates 461 years of faith, history and community at the place where the Catholic faith took root in what is now the United States.
Admission and parking at Mission Nombre de Dios are free. Regular admission rates apply for those entering the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park following the procession.
Event Schedule
For more information, go to the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios website at https://missionandshrine.org or call 904-824-2809.
