Anchored next to a multi-purpose treasure

On the shore where the Manatee River enters Tampa Bay in Bradenton, FL, is a sign announcing “De Soto National Memorial”. A nature trail with markers describing the indigenous plants leads to the Visitor’s Center with its movie chronicling the conquistador tactics of De Soto in the mid-1500‘s. A captivating living history portrayal of the native peoples and their conquerers is carried out by Nat’l Park Rangers throughout each day. But what about the towering cross and obelisk back in the cove? Now that’s the Venice Catholic Diocese’s tribute to the priests and friars who came with De Soto to bring the locals into the fold. This dog-friendly park encourages lots of two-foot and four-foot walking. And here we sit, on the hook, in the middle of it all!