Hey there!

A new week is a good reason to look at a familiar place with fresh eyes. Today we’re making room for a powerful local history story, a simple change to your coffee routine, and a weekend worth putting on your calendar. Pull up your chair—let’s discover something close to home.

Today’s First Coast Trivia

Which Saint Augustine historic site became the first legally sanctioned free Black settlement in what is now the United States?

Start your week with the story of Fort Mose

Fort Mose tells a story of people pursuing freedom and building a community. In 1738, Florida’s Spanish governor chartered the settlement for people escaping slavery in the English colonies. Its history deserves a place alongside the stories we tell about downtown Saint Augustine.

Consider making your next history outing a conversation: what did freedom require, who made the journey, and how do we remember them today? The state park’s history page is a useful starting point before you visit.

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Change one thing about your coffee stop

A favorite morning routine can make the day feel settled. This week, try one small variation: ask what beans are brewing, choose a different preparation, or invite someone you haven’t caught up with lately.

Relámpago Coffee Lab lists its downtown shop at 74 Spanish Street and its roastery inside DOS at 300 San Marco Avenue. You don’t need to know the vocabulary to ask a good question. Tell the staff what you usually enjoy, then see what they suggest.

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Save Saturday for a local outing

Put October 17 on your calendar for the Amphitheater Farmers Market, which runs Saturdays from 8:30 AM–12:30 PM. Bring a reusable bag, and check the organizer’s page before you go.

Also note the Greek Festival’s corrected weekend: October 17–18. Our Thursday edition will help you plan that visit. An older October 10–11 listing should not be used for this week.

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Your trivia answer

Fort Mose. Florida’s Spanish governor chartered the settlement in 1738. It became a sanctuary for people fleeing slavery in the English colonies. Read the source

Know a neighborhood gem, interesting local person, or small business we should feature? Hit reply and tell me about them.

Talk soon,
Bill Marks
Your First Coast Team at Coast & Home

P.S. Your next favorite might already be someone else’s best-kept secret. Share this edition with a friend and compare notes.