Indian Key was the first county seat for Dade County in 1836. At that time, this tiny island salvaged cargo from shipwrecks in the Florida Keys - a lucrative business.

In 1840 Chakaika, leader of the Spanish Indians, led a raid on the settlement at Indian Key burning all but one building of this prosperous town. Oral traditions of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida assert that some members of their tribe are descendents of Chakaika's group.

The county seat for Dade County was moved to Miami in 1844 and the upper Keys, including Indian Key, were returned to Monroe County.

The Indian Key town ruins are on display, along with interpretive panels of the town's history. Accessible only by boat, visitors come here to swim, sunbathe, and hike. Boat and kayak rentals are available from Robbie's Marina at (305) 664-9814. Located on the oceanside of U.S. 1 at Mile Marker 78.5.

Information provided by the Florida Division of Historical Resources, a division of the Florida Department of State.