Paynes Prairie Preserve, the state s first preserve, is a National Natural Landmark.
Paynes Prairie s history dates to the Timucua and Seminole tribes
The prairie had settlements dating back at least 15,000 years ago, with American Indian tribes choosing it because of the sinkhole-fed water resources and the game that was attracted to it.
The Timucua Indians, prevalent in Florida in the 1500s, made Paynes Prairie a major settlement.
“They were very powerful,” Andersen said. “They controlled the prairie. There were a lot of rocks they could make tools or weapons out of, so it s just a very important spot. There are a lot of battles fought over this different factions of the Timucua.
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