Florida in the Civil War
Torreya State Park
The Gregory House
Once the center of life on a large
Florida plantation, the Gregory
House now can be toured daily.
The Apalachicola River
Confederate cannon once
frowned down on the
Apalachicola from the bluffs at
Torreya. Earthworks from the
batteries can still be seen.
Torreya State Park is one of Florida's more unique places. Rich in history, the park
also is a botanical marvel complete with towering bluffs, rare plants and a wide
variety of animal life.
Named for the extremely rare Torreya tree, which grows only along the
Apalachicola River bluffs and primarily within the park, Torreya offers hiking,
camping, picnicking, historic sites and a wide range of outdoor activities.
The centerpiece of the park, in addition to the Torreya tree and the even more rare
Florida Yew, is the white-columned Gregory House. Constructed by Jason Gregory
during the 19th Century and originally located across the river from the park, the
home was moved to Torreya shortly after its establishment. Authentically
furnished, the house can be toured on a daily basis and provides a glimpse into
the lives of an antebellum Florida family.
Just down the hill from the house can be seen the earthwork remains of a series
of Confederate artillery emplacements. The fortifications were never attacked,
although soldiers from here did participate in the Battle of Olustee in 1864.
For more on the Civil War in Florida,
be sure to visit our book store by pressing
the "Books" button above.
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