The Florida Aquarium and The Florida Department of State Southeastern Archaeological Services, hosted the Historic Live Underwater Dedication Ceremony of the USS Narcissus on January 20, 2015.
The Program was held at The Florida Aquarium, Vinik Channelside Room, with a live interactive underwater Dedication Ceremony from the resting place of the USS Narcissus. This underwater broadcast offered a fun and unique dedication of this historic vessel. Live interaction with The Florida Aquarium SCUBA divers included an unveiling and official announcement of the USS Narcissus as Florida’s 12th State Underwater Archaeological Preserve. Attendees wereFlorida Department of State leadership including Secretary of State Ken Detzner; Florida’s State Historic Preservation Officer, Robert Bendus; State City and County officials; and The Florida Aquarium leadership team. Direct descendants of the USS Narcissus crew also participated.
ABOUT THE USS NARCISSUS:
The USS Narcissus is a Civil War tugboat that took part in the naval blockade of southern ports, and was present during the Battle of Mobile Bay. The tug was lost off Egmont Key during a storm in 1866, on her way to New York.
WHY: The dedication of the USS Narcissus as the 12th State Underwater Archaeological Preserve showcases the commitment of local organizations working together to preserve this important piece of Florida history as well as providing yet another reason for people to visit this great state.
The Florida Aquarium is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit institution whose mission is to entertain, educate and inspire stewardship about our natural environment.The Florida Aquarium is home to more than 20,000 aquatic plants and animals representing species from Florida and around the world.