St. Petersburg in Pinellas County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)
First Mass in Florida
April 16, 1528
Photographed By Tim Fillmon, June 2, 2018
1. First Mass in Florida Marker
In April 1528, The Spanish explorer Panfilo de Narvaez arrived here with 5 ships and 600 men in a quest for gold and power. Also with him were those who sought to spread Christianity, including eight diocesan and five Franciscan priests. One of those priests, Fr. Juan Xuarez, OFM, had received an appointment as Bishop of Florida. A few days after their arrival, Fr. Xuarez celebrated Easter Mass ashore on the morning of April 16th. After another ten days in the area which included several violent encounters with the native Tocobaga peoples. Narvaez along with half of the crew (including 5 priests) headed north on land in what would prove to be an ill-fated expedition. Eight years later in 1536, a mere four survivors made it to Mexico.Erected by Diocese of St. Petersburg.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Churches & Religion • Exploration. A significant historical date for this entry is April 16, 1528.
Location. 27° 47.317′ N, 82° 45.241′ W. Marker is in St. Petersburg, Florida, in Pinellas County. Marker is on Elbow Lane North, 0.1 miles
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 5 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Jungle Prada Site (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Panfilo de Narvaez (about 500 feet away); Stetson University College of Law (approx. 3.1 miles away); Rattlesnake Curve (approx. 3.8 miles away); Pioneering Pinellas Park (approx. 4.3 miles away); Gulfport Casino (approx. 4˝ miles away); Steven Jay Robin (approx. 4.6 miles away); Veterans Memorial (approx. 4.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in St. Petersburg.
Also see . . . Catholic Church in Florida. (Submitted on July 18, 2018, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida.)
Photographed By Tim Fillmon, June 2, 2018
2. First Mass in Florida Marker and entrance to pier.
Credits. This page was last revised on July 20, 2018. It was originally submitted on July 18, 2018, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida. This page has been viewed 654 times since then and 157 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 18, 2018, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.
