Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

Summary

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is a Florida State Park located at mile marker 85.5 near Islamorada. It was a former quarry used by Henry Flagler in the early 1900s to help his building of the Overseas Railroad. Following the railroad's completion, it was a source for decorative stone pieces called Keystone. Now on display are exposed sections of fossilized coral, as well as some of the original quarry machinery. The Hurricane Monument at Mile Marker 82 in Islamorada is constructed of keystone from the quarry.

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
IUCN category V (protected landscape/seascape)
Map showing the location of Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Map showing the location of Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Map showing the location of Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Map showing the location of Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
LocationMonroe County, Florida, United States
Nearest cityIslamorada, Florida
Coordinates24°56′57″N 80°35′46″W / 24.94917°N 80.59611°W / 24.94917; -80.59611
Established1999
Governing bodyFlorida Department of Environmental Protection

Hours edit

Florida state parks are open between 8 a.m. and sundown every day of the year (including holidays). The visitor center is open Thursday through Monday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Gallery edit

 
Example of fossil Brain coral (Diploria) at the park. US Quarter near top for scale.

References and external links edit

  • Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park at Florida State Parks