Attraction Guide: Sugar Mill Ruins, New Smyrna Beach, United States

Sugar Mill Ruins Guide

Sugar Mill Ruins: Echoes of Florida's Plantation Past Guide

Discover a piece of Florida's history at the Sugar Mill Ruins, a state historic site that preserves the remnants of a 19th-century sugar plantation. Wander through the ruins of the coquina rock structures, imagine the bustling activity of the mill, and learn about the lives of those who worked and lived here. It's a poignant reminder of Florida's complex past. The Sugar Mill Ruins date back to the early 1830s when a man named Cruger and Depeyster built a sugar plantation and mill on this site. The plantation produced sugar, molasses, and rum, relying on the labor of enslaved Africans. The plantation was destroyed during the Second Seminole War in 1835, and the ruins have remained as a silent testament to this period in Florida's history. Later, in the 20th century, the site was briefly turned into a tourist attraction called "The Bongoland" before becoming a state park. Visitors can explore the ruins of the sugar mill, including the grinding mill, the boiling house, and the chimney. Interpretive signs provide information about the history of the plantation and the lives of those who lived and worked here. The site also features picnic areas and walking trails, making it a pleasant place to spend an afternoon. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the site, consider exploring local restaurants in New Smyrna Beach to sample the flavors of the region.