Defending The Republic...
From Key to Shining Key!

History of the Conch Republic

Also known as Key West and the Florida Keys, the Conch Republic, like many nations was born from trouble. The trouble started back in the dark days of March 1982, when the U.S. Federal Government placed a Border Patrol Roadblock at the Last Chance Saloon in Florida City.

On April 23rd, the Conch Republic flag was raised over city hall and the Schooner Western Union, under command of Captain John Kraus, went forth into the harbor and attacked the US Coast Guard Cutter DILIGENCE with water balloons, Conch fritters and stale Cuban bread. The DILIGENCE fought back with fire hoses and thus commenced the Great Battle of the Conch Republic.

Prime Minister Wardlow surrendered and demanded foreign aid from the United States (which we are still waiting for!) The road block was quietly removed and the glorious Conch Republic was born. This was not an act of revolution against the United States of America. It was a protest against the folly of zealotry resulting in the people of the Florida Keys being literally alienated as Americans.

Each year the Conch Republic Military Forces come together to celebrate their independence by re-enacting the GREAT BATTLE of the Conch Republic in Key West Harbor. Today, the Conch Republic exists as a sovereign State (of mind!) which signifies our vision of the America which we are proud to be part of. Humor, warmth and respect are among our highest values and are those values by which we measure our actions. LEARN MORE >>