Perhaps you thought mermaids were just a cartoon character for your children or that, like Sasquatch, Lochness or Champ, unless you see it for yourself or at the very least some DNA evidence that proves their existence you would never believe it. Well, come to Florida and see real live mermaids in a peaceful, quiet community known as Weeki Wachee on the west coast of Florida.

Actually, they have been available for you to see since 1947 when former U.S. Navy Frogmen trainer, Newton Perry, found the perfect property at the corner of what was then a small two lane road at the corner of U.S. Hwy. 19 and S.R. Hwy 50 that consisted of a freshwater spring and more alligators and bears live in the area than humans did. The spring was littered with debri such as automobiles and appliances when Perry purchased the property. Perry developed an underwater breathing hose that allowed more freedom for divers that would give the illusion of thriving underwater without being encumbered by SCUBA equipment.

Perry turned the property into an underwater theater where the public could view shows from sixteen feet below the water as the “mermaids” he hired and trained to appear as though they were actually living and thriving in the underwater beauty of the natural spring. The first show opened on October 13, 1947.

The attraction became so popular by the 1950s that there were movies filmed on the location and ABC actually purchased the property in 1959. ABC rebuilt the the theater to accomodate up to 500 guests and promoted the mermaid haven heavily which made the attraction one of the nations most popular tourists stops.

Then, and now, girls come from all corners of the earth to tryout for a part as a mermaid. To be a real live mermaid is an honor and in no way is an easy part to obtain as the rigors of being a mermaid (or merman) demand  beauty, elegance and good physical conditioning.

The park opened Buccaneer Bay with water slides and white sand beaches in 1982. You can also enjoy a boat ride down river or rent a canoe or kayak to travel the approximate six miles and experience all the beauty and wonders of the natural spring and nature.

I myself am a kayaker and recently traveled upriver from Rogers Park to the mouth of the river and then floated back down for a round trip of about 12 miles. I have posted some pictures and videos for you to experience the wildlife and river as I seen it including an otter after some mullet for lunch, a Great Blue Heron and even the wonderful fall colors. How many places in the U.S.A. can you go on the water in November?

In recent years the park has had some of it’s own financial issues and could really use your support by simply visiting them to enjoy all that the park has to offer. Your patronage at their online store would also be helpful.

Help save the mermaids and this great piece of history by believing in the mermaids - they are here in our great state of Florida for you to view. Help keep them alive by showing your support for this piece of great history!

Scott McClain - REALTOR®
Realty Agent Professionals Team
Future Home Realty, Inc.
Cell: (727)463-1383
Office: (727)784-7488 Ext. 514
Fax: (727)729-4301
Email: scott@realtyagentpro.com
Web: www.realtyagentpro.com