Islamorada in Monroe County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)

Rafters

Photographed By Marsha A. Matson, May 16, 2015

1. Rafters Marker

Inscription. This plaque is in memory of the many Cubans who were desperate to leave Castros' communist Cuba. They left their homes and families trying to cross the 90 miles of sea in rafts, innertubes or anything that would float.

Not knowing what rough seas and storms would be encountered, hundreds or even thousands were lost and never heard from again.

This is in memory of those who lost their lives, and those who made it to this country. They are now free, contributing to their new homeland here as teachers, business people, political leaders and the economy of our state.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Hispanic Americans • War, Cold • Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the Lost at Sea series list.

Location. 24° 53.365′ N, 80° 40.567′ W. Marker is in Islamorada, Florida, in Monroe County. Marker is on Overseas Highway (U.S. 1 at milepost 78), 1.9 miles south of Old State Road 4a, on the left when traveling south. The marker is on the center boulder of three boulders on the ocean side of the Overseas Highway near Indian Key. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Islamorada FL 33036, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Spanish Treasure Fleet of 1733 (here, next to this marker); Juan Ponce de Leon

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(here, next to this marker); Florida East Coast Railroad Oversea Extension (within shouting distance of this marker); Triangle of History (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Indian Key Historic State Park (about 300 feet away); San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve (about 400 feet away); Tea Table Key (about 500 feet away); Indian Key (approx. 0.3 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Islamorada.

Photographed By Marsha A. Matson, May 16, 2015

2. Rafters Marker

Center boulder

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on May 21, 2015, by Marsha A. Matson of Palmetto Bay, Florida. This page has been viewed 462 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 21, 2015, by Marsha A. Matson of Palmetto Bay, Florida. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.