A waterfront ceremony commemorating the Florida Keys’ symbolic “secession” from the United States began a 10-day celebration that marks the 40th anniversary of the formation of the Conch (pronounced KONK) Republic.
The republic’s birth on April 23, 1982, was motivated by a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint set up unexpectedly at the top of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. As agents searched departing cars for illegal drugs and other contraband, the checkpoint stopped traffic on the only road connecting mainland Florida with the island chain.
The Border Patrol’s action infuriated Florida Keys officials, residents and visitors caught in the miles-long traffic jam. After pleas to federal officials were denied, a group led by Key West’s then-mayor, Dennis Wardlow, protested by staging the “secession,” announcing the creation of the Conch Republic and raising its royal blue flag.
“If they’re going to treat us as a foreign country, we’re going to become a foreign country — and it’s just been amazing that here we are, 40 years later, and it’s still going strong,” said Wardlow, who became the republic’s first prime minister.
Today the offbeat, welcoming republic is recognized around the world as the Florida Keys’ irreverent alter ego.
Wardlow and other Conch Republic dignitaries took part in Friday’s events, including a flag raising and conch shell salute, that began the annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration.
“Forty years later, we still open our arms to everyone,” said Wardlow. “And the government has not put up any border checkpoints and they haven’t messed with us.”
The celebration continues through Sunday, April 24. Other planned highlights include a lighthearted sea battle showcasing the maritime skills of the republic’s “Navy,” a drag race for female impersonators and an open-air bed race billed as “the most fun you can have in bed with your clothes on.”
Disclaimer
The information contained in South Florida Reporter is for general information purposes only.
The South Florida Reporter assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the contents of the Service.
In no event shall the South Florida Reporter be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages or any damages whatsoever, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other tort, arising out of or in connection with the use of the Service or the contents of the Service. The Company reserves the right to make additions, deletions, or modifications to the contents of the Service at any time without prior notice.
The Company does not warrant that the Service is free of viruses or other harmful components
