Cocoa Village

Participants discover Cocoa Village through documented history, historic landmarks, maritime stories, and the local lore connected to the community.

• • Introduces the Ais people and the Indigenous history of Florida’s Atlantic coast.
  • Explores how Cape Canaveral, the Gulf Stream, shoals, and storms shaped early navigation.
  • Connects the region to Spanish exploration, the 1715 Treasure Fleet, shipwrecks, piracy, and maritime trade.
  • Examines the Indian River Lagoon’s role in transportation, settlement, commerce, and the local environment.
  • Highlights Cocoa’s citrus industry, early businesses, banking history, and growth during Florida’s land boom.
  • Introduces architectural styles and preservation through the Porcher House, Cocoa Village Playhouse, Village Tower, and historic bank buildings.
  • Encourages critical thinking by comparing documented events and primary sources with community legends and reported experiences.
  • Builds listening comprehension through history presented by professional storytellers.