Abandoned Florida: Sunshine Sentinels

Abandoned Florida: Sunshine Sentinels by Thomas Kenning, published by America Through Time in 2020, offers a visual exploration of Florida’s historic coastal defenses. This 96-page book presents a collection of 140 images that capture the remnants of these structures, showcasing their transition from symbols of conquest to crumbling relics along the state’s beaches. The work highlights various sites, including Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine and Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas, illustrating the state’s complex history through its architectural remnants.

Readers will find a detailed account that intertwines history with urban exploration, revealing Florida’s evolution from its early days of Spanish colonization to significant moments such as the Civil War and the Cold War. The book emphasizes the stories behind these coastal fortifications, documenting both their decay and restoration. With a focus on themes of history and local heritage, this edition provides a unique perspective on the Sunshine State’s past, inviting readers to reflect on the layers of history embedded in its landscapes.