The area of Payne's Prairie is rich in history.The many archaeological sites within or adjacent to the prairie demonstrate that it was used by Native Americans at least 7,000 years ago. Cuscowilla, one of the largest and earliest (ca. 1740-1830) Seminole towns, was located on the rim of this prairie.

Nature trails through the park and prairie provide views of this environmentally and historically significant area.

The visitor center features exhibits on the area's natural and cultural history, including the pre-Spanish and Seminole periods.

Rancho de La Chua, on the Prairie's north rim, is believed to be the site of Hacienda de La Chua, the largest cattle ranch in Spanish Florida. Established before 1637, La Chua was managed by the politically powerful Menendez Marquez family, reached its zenith of prosperity between 1672 and 1695, and operated until the early eighteenth century.

Cattle and wild horses seen on the Prairie today are descendants of those brought over by the Spanish in the early 1500s and left to roam free after the British raids in the early 1600s.

Paynes Prairie is biologically, geologically and historically unique. This park became Florida´s first state preserve in 1971 and is now designated as a National Natural Landmark. Noted artist and naturalist William Bartram called it the great Alachua Savannah when he wrote about his visit to the prairie in 1774.

Over 20 distinct biological communities provide a rich array of habitats for wildlife and livestock, including alligators, bison, horses and over 270 species of birds. Exhibits and an audio-visual program at the visitor center explain the area´s natural and cultural history. A 50-foot-high observation tower near the visitor center provides a panoramic view of the preserve.

Content provided by Florida Division of Historical Resources and Visit Florida.

Photo courtesy of Florida State Parks.