Florida Historical Markers Programs - Marker Detail
FIRST CHRISTMAS SERVICE
Location:North of Tallahassee off U.S. 27 near Lake Jackson
County: Leon
City: Tallahassee
Description: In this vicinity was the Indian village of Anhayea. Here the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto and his men spent the fall and winter of 1539-40. Since twelve priests accompanied the Spaniards, it is probable that the first Christmas service in the United States was celebrated here.
Sponsors: In Cooperation with Leon County Commissioners