Just off the coast of Islamorada lies Indian Key, a tiny island with a huge story to tell. Today, it’s quiet — home to seabirds, mangroves, and whispers of the past. But nearly 200 years ago, this now-deserted key was buzzing with life, trade, and a little bit of danger.
A Bustling Island in the 1800s
In the early 1800s, Indian Key was one of the busiest places in the Upper Keys. Ships often wrecked on the nearby reefs, and brave “wreckers” would race to salvage the cargo. The island became a thriving little community with homes, shops, and even a courthouse.
Believe it or not, for a short time Indian Key was the county seat of Dade County — even though Miami didn’t exist yet!
The Attack That Changed Everything
The island’s golden age ended in 1840, during the Second Seminole War. A surprise attack left the settlement in ruins, and many residents fled by boat. Since then, no one has ever rebuilt Indian Key. Nature took over, leaving only stone foundations and stories that refuse to fade away.
Ghosts of the Past
Visitors say the island still holds the energy of its early settlers. Some claim to hear distant footsteps or the sound of waves against wooden docks that vanished long ago. Others just feel that unmistakable “presence” — a mix of mystery and history that gives the island its ghostly charm.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, it’s hard to deny the feeling that Indian Key remembers.
Exploring Today
Today, Indian Key Historic State Park is a peaceful spot for kayaking, picnicking, and walking the old streets where a town once stood. You can still see the outlines of homes and warehouses, framed by sea grape trees and coral rock. Bring your curiosity — and maybe a camera, just in case something unexplained appears in your photo!
A Piece of Keys History
Indian Key may be uninhabited now, but its story is woven into the fabric of the Florida Keys. It’s a reminder that these islands hold both beauty and mystery — sometimes in the very same tide.
Fun Fact: The original founder of Indian Key, Jacob Housman, dreamed of turning the island into a tropical empire. Instead, it became one of the Keys’ most fascinating ghost stories.
