Newcomers to Florida are often surprised by the depth and breadth of Florida history, which stretches from prehistoric Indians to Spanish conquerors to pioneers from all over the world.

Archaeological artifacts from Native American burial, middens and temple mounds provide evidence of human habitation from 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. European exploration of the Southwest Florida region began with the arrival of Hernando DeSoto in 1539, although another 300 years would pass before the first American settlers came to the area. Among them was Robert Gamble, whose antebellum plantation house is the oldest in South Florida. Later, in 1911, Mrs. Potter Palmer's arrival from Chicago marked the beginning of the region's emergence as a cultural center.

Prehistoric Florida changed forever with the arrival of the European explorers. At DeSoto National Memorial (northern end of 75th St. in northwest Bradenton; 941- 792-0458), the expeditions of Conquistador Hernando DeSoto are commemorated at what is believed by many to be his original landing site. A visitor center and a self-guiding nature trail are located here as well.

The lives of later pioneers are evoked with a visit to the Manatee Village Historical Park (604 15th St. E., Bradenton; 941-749-7165), featuring nine restored buildings from 1860-1918. including a general store, farm house, boatworks, church, courthouse and school.

Not to be missed is the Gamble Plantation State Historic Site (3708 Patten Ave., Ellenton; 941-723-4536). The 1844 Greek-revival-style house was the centerpiece of Robert Gamble's sugarcane plantation. Today, it is a museum with period furnishings and exhibits about the history of the site, which is also a memorial to the Confederate Secretary of State, Judah P. Benjamin, who hid here in the final days of the Confederacy. There is also the Patten House, a restored Florida farmhouse, on the grounds.

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