The Putnam County Historical Society was incorporated in June of 1966. As stated in its articles of incorporation "the general purposes and objects of this corporation shall be to aid in the discovery and preservation of historical objects and events; to obtain funds for the erection of historical monuments and museums; to promote the interest of all people in the history of our area, particularly Putnam County."

Our Society pursues these goals through several outlets, including: operating the Bronson-Mulholland House and the Putnam Historic Museum, hosting historical programs, and its involvement in historical preservation.

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U.S. NAVY AND COAST GUARD IN WORLD WAR II – NORTHEAST FLORIDA

The November 2024 membership meeting of the Putnam County Historical Society will be held on Saturday November 16th at 11 AM at the Bronson-Mulholland House, 100 Madison Street, Palatka.

Our presenter will be Rob Mattson, Society secretary. Many of you know Rob as a Civil War Navy living historian/reenactor. Rob has also been working on an impression of a World War II U.S. Navy seaman. He will be dressed in the “dungaree” uniform of a sailor and will display some of the period artifacts he has been collecting.

In World War II Florida was important as a training area for soldiers, sailors, and airmen due to its mild climate. A number of training bases and airfields were established throughout the state, including here in northeast Florida. Florida was threatened by the activity of German U-boats off its coast during the war. The U.S. Coast Guard and its civilian auxiliary maintained coastal watch stations to detect submarines and rescue the crews of ships torpedoed by them.

We hope you can attend this informative program, and we encourage you to bring a friend with you. Light refreshments will be served following the presentation.