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Author Makes the Case for Florida's Springs as Archaeological Anchor

Photo: Wikimedia Creative Commons via Public Domain
Three Sisters Springs near Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.

The state of Florida is dotted with natural springs that have attracted visitors since long before they became 1950’s roadside attractions. And while many preservationists who study Florida’s springs focus on their ecology and the symbolism of a pure, pristine font; one author is connecting the social role springs have played throughout history for a more realistic look at their evolution and possibly their future.

Archaeologist and author Jason O’Donoughue joins Gulf Coast Live to about his new book, “Water From Stone,” which takes readers through the thousands of years that Florida’s springs have served as magnets for people, socialization, settlements, rituals, and monuments.

Matthew Smith is a reporter and producer of WGCU’s Gulf Coast Live.