The U.S. Marines in the Second Creek and Second Seminole Wars

Most people do not know that the Marines were involved in some of the Indian Wars of this nation. They were called upon by President Andrew Jackson to assist the Army to deal with both the Creeks and Seminoles. They proved to be a versatile force as many varying duties and challenges were given them. This is the most complete compilation of their duty in these conflicts. Most of the documentation of the Marines was lost in a wagon fire, so this proved to be a difficult search for information on their participation in these conflicts. They were put in charge of forts, including the Tampa Bay area, port, fort and surrounding area. They patrolled the interior both on foot and on horseback. They had charge of Creek Indian volunteers who had agreed to go to Florida to assist in the conflict with the Seminoles. They protected wagon trains of supplies, and they along with sailors of the West Indies Squadron were the first non natives to cross the Everglades from the east coast to the west coast. Some of their officers were put in charge of taking groups of both Creek and Seminoles to the Arkansas Territory. Theirs truly was an inspiring story of their hardships and dedication to their service.