Conch Republic Independence Celebration - Keys people are very proud of the fact that in 1982 they seceded from the United States. It was over a Border Patrol's decision, which turned out not to be very well thought out, to set up a blockade in Florida City, gateway to the Keys. Keys residents felt insulted, and withdrew from the country. The rebellion lasted exactly one minute! Then the Conch Republic surrendered to the local Navy Admiral and demanded money for recovery from the war.
Like many things in the Keys, it eventually became a money issue! Well, every year in April the anniversary is celebrated, during one week of festivities called Conch Republic Days. Here are some re-enacters at Mallory Square. It's right before the start of the most fun activity of the whole week of Conch Republic Independence Celebration, the Bloody Battle, fought between boats on the harbor. It's like a huge food fight on boats. |
