The Matheson History Museum will host archaeologist and historian Dr. Judith Bense for a presentation on her book, “Early Spanish Florida: Unearthing the History of America’s Oldest Colony,” on Wednesday, Aug. 5.
The free program begins at 7 p.m. at 513 E. University Ave. in Gainesville. Click here to register to attend the event.
During the presentation, Bense will discuss the history of early Spanish Florida through the perspectives of the Spanish, Indigenous and African communities whose interactions shaped the region. The book explores the cultural exchanges that defined Florida’s earliest colonial history and includes maps, artifact photographs, excavation images, historical sites, original documents, suggested readings and places to visit.
The book was recently selected to represent Florida literature at the 2026 National Book Festival in Washington, D.C.
Following the presentation, attendees will have an opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session with Bense. Copies of “Early Spanish Florida: Unearthing the History of America’s Oldest Colony” will also be available for purchase.
Bense is president emerita and professor of anthropology at the University of West Florida. She is the author of numerous books, including “Unearthing Pensacola” and “Presidios of Spanish West Florida,” and is the recipient of the Southern Anthropological Society’s James Mooney Award. She also founded the Florida Public Archaeology Network.