Every day, people driving along the Tamiami Trail west of Miami and east of Shark Valley unknowingly pass near the spot of one of the most brutal episodes during the 2nd Seminole War. Chekika's island hammock hideout. For military historians, this was also the location of what is considered one of the first Special Forces Operations in December 1840.
The Miccosukee stay away from there and don't visit the hammock island. According to Sturevant, in the Mikasuki language the place is called, "Yatcasaski," or "Hanging People." (Tequesta, 1953/Vol. 13, pg. 59.)
Chekika's Island can be seen in the distance, as a fortress of trees. A hammock Island in the Everglades. It reminds me of the castle or fortress.
Read the rest of this article at my main blog at http://seminolewar.livejournal.com
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