Faraway Inn property was once the site of the Eagle Pencil Company Cedar Mill (circa 1870 – 1896).

The mill was damaged in the 1896 hurricane and storm surge. The once plentiful stands of red cedar were becoming sparse and brought the end of the enterprise.

Guest Amenities Include:

WiFi *Ground Floor Accommodations *Canoes *Kayaks

Bicycles *Covered Pavilion *Flowered Gardens *Grills *Cable

TV *Books *Games *On Site Vehicle and Boat Parking *Boat

Rinse *Fish Cleaning Area *Recycling

Responsible pet owners and well-behaved pets welcome. No size or breed restrictions for dogs.

Golf Carts Available for Rent

847 Third Street, P.O. Box 370 – Cedar Key FL 32625

1-352-543-5330 www.farawayinn.com

Reserve Online Booklet Prepared by Faraway Inn for the convenience of our wonderful visitors.

FREE Publication * Updated October 2017

Beautiful Cedar Key

Florida

Welcomes You

Restaurants * Shops * Hiking * Biking

Trails * Maps * Birding * Museums * Boating

On The Road * On The Water * In The Air

Public Restrooms * Fishing Piers

Refuge Maps * Community Resources

Booklet Prepared by Faraway Inn for the convenience of our wonderful visitors.

FREE Publication * Updated October 2017

FOOD and DRINK

Pets welcome in most restaurants with outdoor seating

Annie’s Café 352-543-6141

State Road 24 and 6th Street, Cedar Key

Away From the World Café 352-477-5008

360 Dock Street, Cedar Key

Big Deck Raw Bar & Grill 352-543-9992

331 Dock Street, Cedar Key

Bonish Studio and Bar 248-866-8425

582 2nd Street, Cedar Key

Carlin’s Waterfront Steakhouse 352-543-8004

490 Dock Street, Cedar Key

Cedar Key General Store (gas & more) 352-543-6417

7690 SW State Road 24, Cedar Key

Cedar Key Pizza 352-543-0860

598 2nd St, Cedar Key

Cedar Key Sugar Shack (jelly beans, Fudge & More) 352-543-8040

471 Dock Street

Dakotah Winery 352-493-9309

14365 N Highway 19, Chiefland, FL

1842 Daily Grind and Merchantile 352-543-5004 598 2nd Street, Cedar Key 83 West 352-543-5070 310 Dock Street, Cedar Key Island Jiffy Store 352-543-5475

MAP OF CEDAR KEY, FLORIDA

Map is Compliments of Cedar Key Paddling

Cedar Key Paddling is #1 in Rentals & Tours Call 352-665-1276

PUBLIC RESTROOMS / PORTI-POTTIES

City Park 2nd Street Public

Fishing Pier Dock Street Public

Inside Boat Ramp Dock Street Public

CK National Wildlife Refuge Atsena Otie Porti-Potty

Cemetery Point Park Gulf Blvd & Paroda Porti-Potty

Cedar Key Paddling Offers

Multiple Launch Sites

Railroad Trestle

Cemetery Point Park & Boardwalk

State Museum

Welcome Center

Historical Society Museum

CEDAR KEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

P.O. Box 222 - 609 2nd St, Cedar Key, FL 32625 352-543-5549

www.cedarkeyhistoricalmuseum.org

Founded in 1977 the museum contains exhibits and photographs depicting the history of Cedar Key from prehistoric times through the 20th century.

The museum is housed in two buildings.

Wheel chair accessible.

Visit The Cedar Key: Pencils, Lumber, Palm Fiber, and Brushes site

marker located at the corner of Third and G Streets (the current site of

Faraway Inn). This location was once the Eagle Pencil Company Cedar

Mill (circa 1870 – 1896).

Purchase our Cedar Key Walking Tour Guide Book and get to know

the history of the buildings as you walk, bike or cart along the

streets and explore our Beautiful Island City.

Also For Sale:

Books, Mugs, Maps, Whisk Brooms, Sterling Clam Pins

Museum is open 7 days a week – Come for a visit

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Sunday thru Friday

11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday

FOOD and DRINK

Pets welcome in most restaurants with outdoor seating

Holey Moley Donuts & More 352-477-5022

510 2nd Street, Cedar Key

Island Pizzaria (take out only) 352-543-5999

12720 Hwy 24, Cedar Key

Island Room Restaurant Re-opens Soon! 352-543-6520

192 2nd Street, Cedar Key

Island Hotel Restaurant & Neptune Lounge 352-543-5111

373 2nd Street, Cedar Key

Island Trading Post 352-543-5151

450 Dock Street, Cedar Key

Jiffy Food Store (gas, diesel, recreational fuel) 352-543-5626

SR 24 and Whiddon Avenue, Cedar Key

Kona Joe’s Island Cafe

4051 D Street (corner of SR 24 & 6th Street), Cedar Key

Market At Cedar Key 352-543-5354

Corner of SR 24 and 3rd Street, Cedar Key

Robinson Seafood 352-543-5051

6991 SR 24 (9 miles out on left)

Steamer’s Clam Bar and Grill 352-543-5142

420 Dock Street, Cedar Key

GALLERIES - GIFT SHOPS

Pets Welcome in some galleries and shop, please ask first.

Bonish Studio and Bar 248-866-8425

582 2nd Street, Cedar Key

Cedar Keyhole Artist Co-Op 352-543-5801

457 2nd Street, Cedar Key

Cedar Key Canvas 352-543-5198

4051 D Street, Cedar Key

Cedar Key Country Store 352-543-9697

598 2nd Street, Cedar Key

Cedar Key Pottery 352-215-2096

13951 S 77th Place, Cedar Key

(look for orange signs on State Road 24 and CR437)

Dilly Dally Galley 352-543-9146

390 Dock Street, Cedar Key

Flying Frog www.flyingfrog.com

12680 State Road 24, Cedar Key

CEDAR KEY SCRUB STATE RESERVE

Region: West County: Levy Location: 29.194100° N, -83.015173° W Phone Number: 352-543-5567 Open all year, 8 AM to sundown

Features/Amenities Tours, educational signage and/or nature center, Seasonal hunting, Birding by boat, Birding by foot/hiking, Birding by bicycle, Best time of day: Morning, Recommended length of visit: all day, Horseback riding, Butterfly viewing.

Habitats Freshwater Swamp, Freshwater Marsh/Wetlands, Pines, Scrub, Hardwoods/Mixed Forest, Salt Marsh.

Description The spectacular Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve is divided by CR 347 into east and west tracts. The east side has 4 miles of color-coded, multi-use trails and firebreaks available for exploration, and features flatwoods, sandhills and scrub. The latter provides habitat for the colorful Florida Scrub-Jay, the Sunshine State’s only endemic bird species. This reserve represents the northern end of its range on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Common Ground-Dove, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Indigo Snake, Gopher Tortoise and Florida Mouse also occur here, thanks to ongoing restoration and management activities. The west portion has 8 miles of multi-use trails and slopes down through Black Point Swamp to tidal creeks and salt marsh; listen for Clapper Rail, Marsh Wren and Seaside Sparrow. Look and listen for scrub-jays near the west entrance’s parking area, and along CR 347 and the Orange Trail.

Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve

.

GALLERIES - GIFT SHOPS

Pets Welcome in some galleries and shop, please ask first.

Frog Cottage Jewelry 352-443-9148

Wearable Art with “A Social Conscience”

Island Arts 352-543-6677

509 2nd Street, Cedar Key

Island Thyme Antiques 941-740-0045

4051 D Street, Cedar Key

Island Trading Post 352-543-5151

450 Dock Street, Cedar Key

Salty Needle Quilt Shop 352-543-9779

434 2nd Street, Cedar Key

Thank You To All The Cedar Key

Businesses Who Helped To Make This

Booklet Possible For Our Wonderful

Visitors To Enjoy!

FUN ON THE WATER

Cedar Key Paddling ( voted #1 in Cedar Key) 352-665-1276

(multiple kayak launch sites)

12292 State Road 24, Cedar Key

Bait & Tackle and Fishing Rod Rentals

Cedar Key Boat Rentals & Island Tour 352-231-4435

City Dock at Cedar Key Marina, Cedar Key

Cedar Key Marina II 352-543-6148

12780 State Road 24, Cedar Key

Boat Rentals & More…

Educate Yourself on

Water Craft Safety.

Where Your Lifevest! Put Safety First!

Tidewater Tours and Boat Rentals 352-543-9523

Dock 4 on Dock Street, Cedar Key

WACCASASSA BAY PRESERVE STATE PARK Cedar Key, Florida * Phone: 352-543-5567

Disturbance of sites or removal of any artifacts is prohibited.

History Of The Area Rich with cultural history dating from pre-Columbian to early pioneers to the Civil War to modern day timber harvesting. Florida’s early pioneers homesteaded and hunted deer, turkey and bear here. They cut timber and "cow hunted" as well. Yet their activities did not greatly alter the wilderness character of the land. The hammock played a major role in the development of Cedar Key, providing cedar for the pencil factories and palm trees for the fiber factory. Remnants of the boilers once used in the production of brushes and brooms made from the sable palm fibers can be found within the boundaries of the preserve. Another remnant of bygone industry is Salt Island, named for salt kettles found there which were used to extract salt from salt water during the Civil War. Numerous home sites of early settlers as well as Indian sites and artifacts have been found in the preserve. Canoeing - The numerous creeks and the shallow waters are perfect for canoeing and kayaking. There are no launches within the Preserve. Endangered and threatened wildlife sighted in the Preserve include manatee, bald eagle, and black bear. The bay and marsh attract large number of osprey, pelicans, rails, wading birds, and waterfowl. Boating - Boating is accessible only by private watercraft. Boat entrance is available from CR 40 in Yankeetown, CR 326 in Gulf Hammock, and the City Marina in Cedar Key. Fishing - Fishing is abundant with many varieties of salt and fresh water fish, including shellfish. Park's Hours and Fees - Open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365

days. Fees: No entrance fee is required to enter this park

Did You Know?

Cedar Key Bed & Breakfast was once the Eagle Cedar Mill House. Originally built as mill employee housing, later used as a boarding house. (The Cedar Key Bed and Breakfast is located at 3rd & F Street across from Faraway Inn the site of the Eagle Pencil Company Cedar Mill (circa 1870 – 1896).

)

MANATEE SPRINGS STATE PARK

11650 NW 115 Street, Chiefland, FL 32626

(352) 493-6072

The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year. Admission Fee: Visit website for entrance fee www.floridastateparks.org/park/manatee-springs For one thousand years Manatee Springs and the surrounding area have provided a home site and livelihood for humans. Artifacts found in the spring and adjacent areas indicate that people have been living and raising their families here for at least 9,000 years. The arrival of Spaniards during the 1500s brought an end to a series of cultures that lived in harmony with the earth for thousands of years. In 1774, William Bartram, a naturalist, botanist and artist, traveled through the area while exploring the Southeast. Later, he wrote a book about his travels, in which he described Manatee Springs in detail and noted the presence of manatees. Manatee Springs Rules for Pets Well-behaved dogs are welcome at Manatee Springs State Park. They must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times and cannot be left unattended for more than a half-hour. Dogs are not permitted in buildings or swimming area. Because the close proximity can lead to problems between dogs meeting on the boardwalk, pets are restricted from boardwalks. Pets on a leash and controlled by owners can wade into the spring run at the canoe launch facility.

FANNING SPRINGS STATE PARK

Fanning Springs State Park is a 14 mile drive from Manatee Springs and across US 19 from part of the Nature Coast State Trail. Fanning Springs is located on the Suwannee River, this inviting source of cool, clear water has attracted people for thousands of years. Fanning Springs now produces less than 65 million gallons of water daily, making it a second magnitude spring.

RENTALS AND TOURS

Cedar Key Adventures - golf carts/bicycles 727-410-2112

Dock Street, Cedar Key

Cedar Key Ghost Tours 904-718-1574

(usually responds within one hour)

Faraway Inn (golf carts) call to reserve 352-543-5330

847 Third Street (Corner of 3rd and G Streets), Cedar Key

Stay at Faraway Inn guests can use cart at night too!

Gulf Kart Company (golf carts) 352-543-5090

Corner of A Street and 2nd Street, Cedar Key

EZ Ride Bike Taxi 352-693-9099

Ask about our specialty tours

Island Air Tours 352-477-0105

6931 SW 105th Avenue, Cedar Key

Did You Know?

There are 3 site markers to read located on Cedar Key.

1. John Muir at Cedar Key located at Museum State Park

2. The Cedar Keys: Pencil, Lumber, Palm Fiber and

Brushes is located at Faraway Inn (3rd & G Streets)

3. Atlantic To Gulf Railroad is located at the City Park

Support Mom and Pop Small Local Business

Shopping * Dining Out * Overnighting

FISHING PIERS IN CEDAR KEY

1. No. 4 Bridge and Fishing Pier (Open all year, sunrise to sunset)

Directions: From US 19/US 98, take SR 24 southwest for 19.7 mi. towards

Cedar Key. After crossing the first bridge to the keys, take the first left

(east) onto SW 153rd Ct. and immediately turn left again (north); follow

this road north past the marine lab to the fishing pier and boat ramp at

the end.

2. City Fishing Pier Cedar Key (NOAA Cedar Key, FL 8727520)

Pier is about 250 feet in length over Gulf of Mexico waters.

SEAFOOD MARKETS

Adkins Seafood 352-543-5669

8291 SW Co Rd 347, Cedar Key

Cedar Key Seafood Distributors 352-543-6000

1125 Palmetto Drive, Cedar Key

Cooke's Oysters & Seafood 352-543-5334

1133 Whiddon Avenue Cedar Key

Robinson Seafood Market 352-543-5051

6991 FL-24, Cedar Key

Southern Cross Sea Farms 352-543-5980 12170 FL-24, Cedar Key

LOWER SUWANNEE RIVER BAT HOUSE

Location: Lower Suwannee River National Wildlife Refuge

Date completed: July, 2002

Footprint: Initially 4 ft. X 8 ft. The bat house became full and

additional roosting space was added.

The footprint is now 8 ft. X 8 ft.

Height to bottom: 13 ft.

Roof material: Green metal

Estimated capacity: 50,000

Occupancy: 40,000 As of 2008

www.floridabats.org

The first bat occupants were several hundred evening bats

(Nycticeius humeralis), which had the run of the place for four-six

months, at which time Brazilian free-tailed bats (Tadarida

brasiliensis) took over. The free-tails came in by the thousands

within a short time. Soon the entire house appeared to be packed

full. Another advantage to our house design was the ability to easily

add additional roosting quadrants. In early 2005, two additional

roosting quadrants were added on both sides of the original house,

making the house 8‟x8‟x4‟, in effect doubling the original size.

University of Florida /

Institute of Food And Agricultural Sciences

UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station

552 1st Street, P.O. Box 878, Cedar Key, FL 32625

RIVER TRAIL AND BOTTOMLANDS BOARDWALK Located off Highway 347, adjacent to Headquarters drive, the trail is a short, shaded 3/10 of a mile to the historic Suwannee River. You will travel past Prothonotary warbler boxes, a bat house/wooden duck condo, and a shaded bench, before you reach the observation deck over the river. There are approximately 60,000 bats that reside in our bat houses. Get there about 45 minutes before sunset to see them. The adjacent Bottomlands boardwalk runs 1000 feet across a cypress swamp (maybe in drought season), and back to the parking area. Barred owls, Pileated and red-bellied woodpeckers have been seen.

DENNIS CREEK TRAIL Located adjacent to Shell Mound, it has its own parking area. The One mile loop trail crosses Three bridges over the salt barren and takes you through a dense population of sweet smelling Carphepherous (Vanilla Plant). Shaded benches are located near the freshwater pond and the creek, so you can watch the birds watching the fish jump.

SHIRED ISLAND TRAIL Located off Highway 357, at the Shired boat ramp parking area. Follow the trail to

the "Beach" that was constructed 7,000 years ago by ancient Coastal cultures. From

the shoreline, the shell midden is evident as you look back to the tree line. This is

one of the finer beaches for picnicking and photography in the area.

NOTICE

Unless an area is posted as CLOSED or NO ADMITTANCE, you are WELCOME TO HIKE OR BIKE BEHIND ANY LOCKED GATES.

www.tidewater-florida.com/stateparks/waccasassa-bay-preserve.htm

FISHING CHARTERS

Cedar Key Marina II 352-543-6148

12780 State Road 24, Cedar Key

Hooked Up Charters (inshore/offshore) 352-949-0721

Cedar Key

Grouper Therapy (offshore) 352-363-0244

Cedar Key

Lady Pirate Fishing (inshore) 352-328-6411

slip #18, City Marina, Cedar Key

Robinson Seafood (charters and seafood seller) 352-543-5051

6991 State Road 24 (9 miles out on left) of Cedar Key

Saltwater Assassin (inshore) text/phone: 352-535-5083

658 4th Street, Cedar Key 352-745-2262

Saltwater Outlaw (inshore/offshore) 352-843-4067

Cedar Key

Southern Salt Charters (inshore) 352-215-3686

Located at City Ramp, Cedar Key

Voyles Guide Service (inshore/offshore) 352-339-2034

Located in Cedar Key

Did You Know?

A historical marker about the Rosewood

Massacre is located on State Road 24 in

Rosewood, FL

Emergency: Fire, Ambulance, Police 911

Non-Emergency Police: 352-543-5180

Cedar Key Volunteer Fire and Rescue 352-543-5192

Cedar Key Airport: KCDK - George T Lewis Airport Information 2300 foot hard surfaced runway, dusk to dawn lighting, uncontrolled airspace.

City Marina: Cedar Key City Marina offers 2 launch ramps (launch fee required). Boat slips in the marina are available from 5 minutes to 24 hours on a first come, first served basis. Private marinas are available, but provide service and supplies only; there are no on-water slips.

Cedar Key Lions Club cedarkeylionsclub@gmail.com

Cedar Key Women’s Club 352-543-0335

Cedar Key News www.cedarkeynews.com

Cedar Key Post Office 2nd St. 352-543-5477

Cedar Key Pubic Library 460 2nd St. 352-543-5777 Hours:

Friday 1–4PM Saturday 10AM–1PM Sunday Closed Monday 10AM–4PM Tuesday 4–8PM Wednesday 10AM–4PM Thursday 10AM–4PM

LOWER SUWANNEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1979, is located along the southern edge of the Big Bend region of Florida's west coast, approximately 50 miles southwest of Gainesville. This 54,000 acre refuge is one of the largest undeveloped river delta - estuarine systems in the United States and was established to protect natural ecosystems of the Suwannee River's lower reaches and coastal marsh, as it empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

This diverse mixture of uplands, freshwater, saltwater and their associated wetlands, creates a great variety of wildlife habitat and scenic vistas. Osprey and bald eagle nest in early spring, while graceful swallow-tailed kites arrive in March for breeding and remain through July. In March and April migrating shorebirds cover the oyster bars; thousands of knots, dowitchers, oystercatchers, sandpipers, turnstones, and plovers fatten up for their northward trip to their breeding grounds.

Wading birds are most abundant during the summer and they can be found feeding in the freshwater and salt marshes. White ibis, great, snowy, and cattle egrets along with great blue, little blue, green, and tricolored herons are among the birds that roost and nest on nearby Cedar Keys refuge. Rare Limpkins and endangered wood storks are occasionally seen prowling the water's edge during the warm months.

Directions From Cedar Key, follow SR 24 north out of town, and veer left onto CR 347. The west entrance is 1.0 mi. ahead from this intersection, on the left (west) side of the road. The east entrance is located on SR 24, 2.5 mi. northeast of the intersection with CR 347, on the left (west) side of the road.

The library hosts many

exciting events such as

talks, lectures, yoga class

and more.

LOWER SUWANNEE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Visit www.friendsofrefuges.org

Emergency: Fire, Ambulance, Police 911

Non-Emergency Police: 352-543-5180 Cedar Key Volunteer Fire and Rescue 352-543-5192

Fish & Wildlife Law Enforcement 1-888-404-3922 Violations or Injured Wild Life

Cedar Key Welcome Center 352-543-5600 Chamber of Commerce www.cedarkey.org 2nd St., Cedar Key, FL

City of Cedar Key City Hall 352-543-5132

Senator George Kirkpatrick Marine Lab 352-543-9219

11350 SW 153rd Ct, Cedar Key, FL 32625

Florida’s Nature Coast Conservancy 352-543-6715

Fraternal Order of Eagles 352- 543-9789

7010 B St., Cedar Key, FL 32625

Healthy Cedar Key Healthy Gulf Resource Guide:

www.healthycedarkeyhealthygulf.com

Created to promote and sustain the physical, spiritual, mental,

economic well-being of the community and the protection of the

natural environment and all of its resources.

ON-Island Taxi service 352-949-2127

BAIT & TACKLE, ROD RENTALS

and

FISHING LICENCES

Cedar Key Paddling 352-665-1276

12292 State Road 24, Cedar Key

Bait & Tackle and Fishing Rod Rentals

Kayak/Canoe Rentals, Tide Table

Cedar Key Marina II 352-543-6148

12780 State Road 24, Cedar Key

DW & D Bait and Tackle

Corner of Hwy 24 and Whiddon

Marina Hardware of Cedar Key 352-543-5804

409 1st St., Cedar Key

Bait and Tackle, Fishing License, Tide Table

Niko’s Bait Bucket 352-543-6060

490 Dock Street, Cedar Key

Bait & Tackle and Fishing Rod Rentals

Souvenirs, Snacks, Coolers, Cold Drinks

SHELL MOUND COUNTY PARK

17650 Southwest 78 Place, Cedar Key, FL 32625

Open Year Round

The Shell Mound Unit of Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge is adjacent to Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. This unique feature was created by archaic period Eastern Woodland Indian cultures by discarding oyster and clam shells they used as a food source. The area was inhabited by this culture for at least 1,000 years from about 450 to 1,800 years ago. Once used as a source of materials for road construction (prior to Refuge ownership) the mound is now protected from all but foot traffic, attracting about 60,000 visitors per year, yet it never seems like anyone else is there.

This is a sea kayaker’s playground, a shallow ocean area often only inches deep over hidden oyster bars, located among barrier islands and thick with wildlife. For inexperienced sea kayakers, these serene waters are a safe, accessible place to get comfortable with ocean kayaking without the interference of constant motor boat traffic. Experienced kayakers will love the area for its tranquil beauty or as a jump off point for greater adventures, such as paddling five miles up the coast to the Suwannee River, or wilderness camping on Clark Island, just an hour paddle north of Shell Mound. From Cedar Key - 14 min (8.7 mi) via FL-24 E, County Rd 347 and County Rd 326

CEMETERY POINT PARK / BOARDWALK

Gulf Blvd. and Paroda Ave. Cedar Key, FL 32625

This boardwalk starts just outside the Cedar Key Cemetery and

ends at the Cemetery Point Park.

Cemetery Point Park is a three-and-a-half-acre park located on

coastal upland with 400 feet of sandy shore. Bordering a channel

of the Gulf, the park provides a place to fish on the shore, swim

and kayak. A fitness trail, a picnic shelter and a small play area

invite visitors to spend a few hours.

The 1,200 foot boardwalk, which gives access to the park, offers

great views for birding and observing life in a thriving tidal

marsh.

Physically Challenged Accessible?: yes

Amenities • Comfort Areas • Observation Pier • Park Benches • Picnic Areas • Playground • Restrooms • Swimming Area • Tables • Trails • Unpaved Hiking/Walking Trails • Water Access • Wildlife Observation Areas

BIRDING IN CEDAR KEY

Cedar Keys Audubon

numbers to call for bird rescue help

615-337-3213 OR 352-949-1995 OR

352-262-6665

Injured Birds/Wildlife Call 352-621-5575 or 352-302-8644

American Wood Stork Osprey

Bald Eagle Red-wing Blackbird

Black Skimmer Roseate Spoonbill

Boat-tailed Grackle Snowy Egret

Brown Pelican Tri-Color Heron

Great Blue Heron Turkey Vulture

Great White Egret White Ibis

Little Green Heron White Pelican

Magnificent Frigate Bird Yellow Crown Night Heron

These are just a few birds you may see while visiting

beautiful Cedar Key.

VETERINARY CLINICS AND EMERGENCY

PET SERVICE

Suwannee Valley Veterinary Clinic 352-493-0123 2630 N. Young Blvd., Chiefland, FL 32626 Family Pet Vet 352-493-7923 107 N. Young Blvd., Chiefland, FL 32626 Affiliated Pet Emergency Services 352-373-4444 7314 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32607 Located off S.W. 75th Street (Tower Road) www.affiliated-pet.com Provides professional critical and emergency veterinary medical care outside the routine office hours of area hospitals and clinics. Open 24 Hours on All Major Holidays Chiefland Animal Hospital 352-493-2000 2630 N Young Blvd., Chiefland, FL 32626

CEDAR KEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1929 by President Herbert Hoover to protect a breeding ground for colonial nesting migratory birds during a time when market hunters, desiring feathers for the ladies' apparel industry, were slaughtering millions of birds. Today, the threat is much different - coastal islands are being rapidly developed and habitat is lost forever. Congress strengthened the refuge in 1972 when it designated four of the original refuge islands as National Wilderness Areas under the Wilderness Act. Presently, the refuge is comprised of 13 islands ranging in size from 1 to 120 acres and totaling 762 acres.

The most recent addition to the refuge was Atsena Otie Key, which was purchased in 1997 by Florida's Suwannee River Water Management District and managed as part of the refuge through a partnership agreement.

Cedar Keys Light Station – Located on Seahorse Key

The historic Cedar Keys Light Station was established to protect ships that came into Florida's first port.

The historic Cedar Keys Light Station was established to protect ships that came into Florida’s first port.

Be Responsible and Have Your Pets Spayed /

Neutered and Vaccinated. Help End The

Overpopulation.

Visit Cedar Key Welcome Center for

Information and Unique Gifts. Located on 2nd

Street across from Cedar Key Arts Center.

CEDAR KEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Boat Access Only The Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge is part of the United

States National Wildlife Refuge System, located near Cedar Key, at the western end of SR 24. The 891-acre refuge was established in

1929.

TRAP NEUTER RETURN (TNR)

Cedar Key is a Volunteer TNR Community

Are you feeding outdoor cats? You’ve also got to fix them.

Providing food, water and shelter for outdoor cats is important, but it’s also equally important to make sure all of the cats in the group or colony are spayed and neutered. Cats can have two to three litters per year of five to six kittens each. And then those kittens can become pregnant at about six months of age…and so the cycle continues. Spaying and neutering the cats will not only stop the breeding cycle, but it will also eliminate problematic behaviors such as howling, fighting and spraying.

What is Trap Neuter Return (TNR)? Trap-neuter-return (TNR) is a program through which free-roaming cats (not belonging to particular humans) are humanely trapped; sterilized and medically treated; and returned to the outdoor locations where they were found. If those locations are deemed unsafe or otherwise inappropriate, feral cats (unsocialized to humans) are relocated to farmyard homes. Kittens still young enough to be socialized and friendly adult cats are typically placed in foster care for eventual adoption into homes as companion animals rather than returned to the outdoors. Cats found suffering with terminal or untreatable illnesses or injuries are humanely euthanized.

What does it mean when a cat's ear is clipped? Eartipping is the universal sign of an altered feral cat. While the cat is sedated for spay or neuter surgery, a quarter of an inch is removed from the tip of the ear in a straight line cut. The procedure is swift and painless and healing is rapid.

Sheltering Hands, Inc.

PO Box 843, Williston, Fl 32696

Voicemail: 352-840-0663

shelteringhands@embarqmail.com

CEDAR KEY COMMUNITY GARDEN CONSERVATION CORNER

Citizens began a community garden conveniently located on 2nd Street next the Island Hotel and Restaurant. Inspired by the land owners, and countless volunteers who constructed raised beds and organized and transformed the property into a beautiful space for rest, contemplation, and growing wonderful crops.

The plaques on each bed represent friends, businesses and individuals

who contributed $250 seed money to build this peaceful growing place.

Please! Keep Cedar Key Clean

CEDAR KEY RAILROAD TRESTLE NATURE TRAIL

Florida's Nature Coast Conservancy PO Box 401 Cedar Key, FL 32625 email: info@floridasnaturecoastconservancy.org

The trail's path is an easy walk (0.6 miles) beneath towering pines, beside aromatic cedars, and among dozens of varieties of native plants and wildflowers From State Road 24 southbound (approaching Cedar Key), turn onto Grove Road; a small parking area is immediately on the right at the trailhead.

Migratory songbirds stop to rest among the swaying grasses. Butterflies dance atop the flowers. Ospreys swoop and cry overhead as they hunt for fish in the quiet backwaters. Ibis and rare roseate spoonbills dredge the shoreline for their morning feast.

The area is perfect for a contemplative walk, and offers a multitude of opportunities for photographers and artists. Birding enthusiasts will be thrilled by the number and variety of species that flock to this serene back marsh. Railroad historians can tread the path of the old Fernandina to Cedar Key rail line, and look across the marsh to where the line once connected with the main shipping dock. Some of the old trestle posts are still visible at the water's edge.

3

The FNCC

developed this trail

in Cedar Key and

maintains it along

with the very

welcome help of

the City of Cedar

Key.

Native plants along the trail are identified with markers and a bit of history about each plant. The City of Cedar Key also provides for public protection along the trail.

A Brief History of the Old Rail Line

The first train arrived in Cedar Key on March 1, 1861 and brought with it a new era of prosperity to this island community. Daily passenger and freight services from Fernandina Beach continued until the early 1880s when Henry Plant's railroad bypassed Cedar Key for the larger port of Tampa. Service to the island gradually declined until the last train departed from Cedar Key on July 7, 1932. The abandoned rail line was quickly reclaimed by native vegetation and wildlife. When development mushroomed again in the late 1990s it became readily apparent that action was needed to preserve some of the pristine habitat areas. The trail project became a viable solution to that need for preservation. Not only did it create a habitat refuge, it also preserved a small piece of Cedar Key's history.

Trail Surface: Dirt / Grass / Sand, Trail Activities: Fishing / Walking

Bicycles are not permitted on the path, use is restricted to pedestrians only.

CHURCHES

Cedar Key Church of Christ www.cedarkeychurchofchrist.com Corner of E and 3rd Streets, Cedar Key

Cedar Key United Methodist Church 352-543-0011 HWY 24, Cedar Key

Christ Episcopal Church 352- 543-6407 Cedar Key

First Baptist Church Cedar Key 352-543-5000

717 2nd Street, Cedar Key

St. Andrew’s Chapel Mass on Sundays at 3 pm 12513 S.R. 24, Cedar Key

AA and NA Meetings in Cedar Key Florida Visit the sites below for meeting locations and times www.sober.com www.recovery.org/browse/cedar-key-fl

Two Unique Educational Day Trips:

1. Treasure Camp Fowlers Bluff

15249 NW 46th Ln, Chiefland, FL 32626

(352) 493-7607

2. Two Tails Ranch and All About Elephants

18655 NE 81st St, - Williston, FL 32696

(352) 528-6585 - Cell (352) 359-6676

3. Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary (EARS)

Lions, Liger, Tigers (Orange & White) Bears, Leopards,

Bobcats, Cougar, Monkeys and more!

Citra, FL 32113 - http://www.earsinc.net

CLAM AND OYSTER FACTS

In 1995 the citizens of the state of Florida voted to ban the use of gill nets in state waters. As a result many commercial fishermen were out of work. Some found work away from the fishing industry. Others became part of a newly formed clam industry in Cedar Key. The state of Florida helped train fishermen through several clam training programs. Fortunately local fishermen have been able to continue to work on the water. Due to Cedar Key’s rural location and exceptional water quality, our little island quickly became one of the largest producers of farm raised clams in the country! - Florida oysters are available year round, but harvest really gears up in fall as water temperatures begin to drop. Fall and winter are the perfect time to enjoy Florida’s famous oysters. The cool months are when oysters taste the best. Florida’s oyster industry is based on the Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica), which is found from the Yucatan Peninsula in the Gulf of Mexico to the St. Lawrence River in Canada. In the warm, nutrient-rich waters of the bay, oysters grow quickly and can reach market size in less than two years. - Oysters play a critical role in their ecosystems, filtering and cleaning the water, helping to stabilize the coastline, and providing habitat for fish, shrimp, crabs, and other animals. Oysters feed mainly on single-cell plants. When feeding, a single oyster can pump and filter 25 gallons of water in 24 hours. - In Florida, shell or “cultch” planting -- the placement of processed oyster shell on depleted oyster reefs and suitable bay bottom areas -- is an important resource management tool for maintaining and enhancing productive oyster habitat. Shell plantings provide an excellent base upon which free-swimming oyster larvae can attach and grow. - Fresh oysters are sold live or shucked. Live oysters should have a mild sea-breeze aroma, and their shells should be free of cracks. Live oysters should close tightly when their shells are tapped, and oysters that do not close should be discarded. Live oysters should be stored in the refrigerator at a constant 41 degrees Fahrenheit in a container with the lid slightly open. Excess liquid should be drained daily. Live oysters should be eaten within seven days of purchase and washed thoroughly before cooking. - Fresh-shucked oysters should also have a mild sea-breeze aroma. They can be stored on ice or in the coldest part of the refrigerator for up to five days from the date of purchase. Expect to see a clear or slightly milky, light gray liquid in the container.

From the main building, a brick walkway leads past outdoor exhibits that include an iron kettle once used by Confederates to extract salt from local waters. The path ends at perhaps the most fascinating part of the museum, the historic St. Clair Whitman House.

Restored to how it appeared in 1920, the house is a beautiful and charming way to step back in time and experience Cedar Key of old. The home's former owner, Mr. St. Clair Whitman, was an avid collector of shells, prehistoric Indian artifacts and other items of historical interest. Many of his unique shells are on display in the house, which appears much as it did when he lived there

Cedar Key Museum State Park also offers a short nature trail that offers visitors the chance to experience the natural life of the islands.

Cedar Key Museum State Park is located at 12231 S.W. 166th Court in Cedar Key. Signs guide visitors to the museum from the main road leading onto the island.

For Sale at the State Museum

T-shirts Books Post Cards Maps Pins Collectibles

Museum Hours: Thursday - Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission fee per person

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

NOTE: There are two Cedar Key Museums, the state facility and a second one

operated by the local Cedar Key Historical Society. Be sure to see both!

Looking To Move To Cedar Key?

CedarKeyHomes.com 352-477-0007 Nickie Rucker (Fun Fact: Nickie Rucker’s parents originally built Faraway Inn)

CedarKeyRealty.net 352-543-9899

NatureCoastRealty.com 352-543-6323

PelicanRealty.com 352-543-5581

CEDAR KEY MUSEUM STATE PARK

Established in 1962, Cedar Key Museum State Park offers a fascinating collection of exhibits and artifacts that date back to the earliest days of human habitation on the islands. From ancient Native American artifacts to exhibits explaining the Civil War and subsequent cedar industry of the keys..

As the historical marker standing by the walkway leading to the main museum building notes, Cedar Key was the end point of the famed walk from Kentucky to Florida of noted naturalist John Muir. His historic journey produced some of the finest observations on Southern botany ever recorded.

Also along the walkway can be seen two iron cannon dating from the Civil War era. It is thought that these guns were the ones placed in the battery on Seahorse Key by Confederate troops in 1861.

Inside the main museum building, visitors can explore a number of exhibits that talk them on a walk through the history of Cedar Key. From early Native Americans to the use of the islands during the Second Seminole and Civil Wars, the exhibits carry through to the years when cedar trees were harvested from the keys to make Cedar Key a famed source for wooden pencils.

One of the exhibits features a diorama of the Battle of Station Four,

fought between Union and Confederate forces in 1865. The

fight was led on the Southern side by the famed "Swamp Fox" of

Florida, Captain J.J. DIckison.

CEDAR KEY INTERESTING FACTS

- Cedar Key’s Elevation: 9.843′ Area: 2.124 mi²

- Cedar Key is a city in Levy County, Florida, United States.

- Levy County is located in north-central Florida.

- The county seat is Bronson.

- The county is named after David Levy Yulee, a planter and political

leader in Florida during the 1800s.

- Levy County was created in 1845 by the Florida legislature from

lands formerly occupied by the Seminole Indians.

-Levy County was a major center for pencil manufacturing in the

United States from 1866 to the early 1900s, when all its coastal

cedar trees had been sawed into pencil lumber.

- Cedar Keys are named for the Eastern Red Cedar, Juniperus

virginiana, once abundant in the area.

- In the first week of January, 1923, the infamous Rosewood Massacre occurred in Levy County. - Rosewood was settled in 1845, nine miles east of Cedar Key. Most of the local economy drew on the timber industry; the name Rosewood refers to the reddish color of cut cedar wood. - Prior to the massacre, the town of Rosewood had been a quiet, primarily black, self-sufficient whistle stop on the Seaboard Air Line Railway. - Construction of the new cross-state railroad began in September, 1855 and was completed in 1860. - On March 1, 1861, the first train arrived in Cedar Key. - In 1932 all passenger and freight service was discontinued.

What is the difference between a key and an island?

A cay (/ˈkiː/ or /ˈkeɪ/), also spelled caye or key, is a small, low-elevation, sandy island on the surface of a coral reef. Cays occur in tropical environments throughout the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans (including in the Caribbean and on the Great Barrier Reef and Belize Barrier Reef). An island or isle is any piece of sub-continental land that is surrounded by water. Very small islands such as emergent land features on atolls can be called islets, skerries, cays or keys. An island in a river or a lake island may be called an eyot or ait, or a holm.

STATE TRAILS ETIQUETTE

Bicyclists and in-line skaters yield to other users; all trail users yield to equestrians. Obey all trail rules posted at trailheads. Stay to the right except when passing. Pass slower traffic on their left; yield to oncoming traffic when passing. Give a clear warning signal when passing. Always look ahead and behind when passing. Travel at a responsible speed. Keep pets under control on a maximum 6-foot leash; walk them along the edge of any shared-use trail. Do not trespass on private property. Move off the trail surface when stopped to allow others to pass. Yield to other trail users when entering and crossing the trail. Do not disturb wildlife. All animal and plant life is protected in Florida State Parks. Watch out for traffic at road crossings. Obey all traffic signals. Helmets are required by Florida law for cyclists and equestrians under the age of 16 and are recommended for all ages. Equestrians should carry a copy of the negative Coggins test. (Chapter 5C-18.010, F.A.C.). Without documentation, you could be subject to fine.

FLORIDA STATE PARK RULES

Florida State Parks are open from 8:00 a.m. to sunset every day of the year. Many museums, visitor centers and historic sites may be closed two days per week, usually Tuesday and Wednesday. Hours may vary. Check the park's Web site for details.

Most state parks require an entrance fee. Additional user fees may apply for such activities as camping, canoe rentals and tours.

All plants, animals and park property are protected. The collection, destruction or disturbance of plants, animals or park property is prohibited.

Pets are permitted in designated areas only. Where allowed, pets must be kept on a hand-held leash, no longer than six feet and well behaved at all times. Service animals are welcome in all areas of the parks.

Fishing, boating, swimming and fires are allowed in designated areas only. A Florida fishing license may be required.

Fireworks are prohibited in all Florida state parks. Hunting is prohibited in Florida State Parks. State Reserves offer special hunting seasons. Alcoholic beverage consumption is allowed in designated areas only. Hammock use and any other associated lines may be attached to trees that are minimum of 12 inches in diameter measured at chest height and using a minimum of 2 inch wide flat web straps. Some parks may provide hammock posts instead of trees. Become a volunteer. Inquire at any ranger station, visitor center or museum.

Florida's state parks are committed to providing equal access to

all facilities and programs. Should you need assistance to enable

your participation, please contact staff at any ranger station or call

(850) 245-3076 (Voice) or 711 (Florida Relay Service).