Fantastic Archaeology: Florida Frauds, Myths, and Mysteries is a talk at the Elliott Museum in Stuart, presented by the Historical Society of Martin County. It takes on a question that comes up often in Florida history: how do you separate real archaeological evidence from legends, hoaxes, and historical misconceptions?
The speaker is Robbie Boggs, Public Archaeology Coordinator for the East Central Region of the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN). Her office is based at Flagler College in St. Augustine. She has worked with FPAN full-time since 2013. Her work includes leading volunteers in cemetery documentation projects, running educational workshops, building community partnerships, and developing archaeology programs for both children and adults.
The presentation covers what archaeology actually is and how archaeologists investigate the past. It also covers why it matters to understand what archaeology is not. Along the way, it looks at questionable claims and some of the more fantastic stories that have shaped how people think about Florida’s past, with an emphasis on why evidence matters.
This talk suits history buffs, curious locals, and anyone who has heard a tall tale about buried treasure or ancient visitors and wondered if it holds up. Seating is limited and tickets are sold through the Historical Society, with a separate member rate that requires a valid membership card. If you are making an afternoon of it, browse more Martin County events or explore the shops in downtown Stuart.