Jonathan Dickinson (1663-1722) was an English Quaker merchant and mariner born in Port Royal, Jamaica. He is most famous for his harrowing experience after being shipwrecked off the coast of Florida in 1696. Dickinson and his family, along with other passengers and crew, were on a voyage from Jamaica to Pennsylvania when their ship, the Reformation, ran aground near what is now Jupiter Island. His companions included his wife, their six-month-old son, commander Joseph Kirle, the mariners, ten slaves, and other passengers and merchants.
After the shipwreck, the group encountered the local Jaega Native American tribe. Although initially threatened, they were eventually allowed to continue their journey. Dickinson kept a detailed journal of their ordeal, documenting the treacherous conditions, interactions with the indigenous people, and the journey up the coast to St. Augustine, which was then a Spanish settlement. His journal, later published as God's Protecting Providence, became a valuable historical account of early colonial life and the indigenous people of Florida.
Dickinson and his family eventually reached Philadelphia, which had been their original destination. He served twice as Philadelphia's mayor in the early 1700s.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Martin County, Florida is named in his honor because the area near Jupiter, where the park is located, was close to where Dickinson and his party were shipwrecked and began their challenging journey northward. The park preserves the natural environment and serves as a reminder of this significant historical event.
Comments