Sure, I’m a Key West/Conch Republic dual citizen, and here is how it all began! In 1982, Key West residents were dismayed when they discovered a United States Border Patrol blockade on Highway U.S.1, the only route residents could use to enter the mainland.  That’s when all the trouble started . . .

 

The mayor of Key West, Dennis Wardlow, gathered a few other Key West citizens and attempted to get an injunction from the Federal Court in Miami to remove the blockade. The Federal Court would not order an end to the blockade.  Thus, the famous cry was heard on the steps of the Federal Courthouse as TV cameras rolled, “Tomorrow at noon the Florida Keys will secede from the Union!”

On April 24th, as announced, the official proclamation of secession was read at Mallory Square in Key West. The Conch Republic was created as an independent nation.  After the “rebellion” which lasted about one minute, the now Prime Minister Wardlow surrendered to Union Forces.  He submitted his surrender to the U.S. Admiral in charge of the Navy Base at Key West. In the next minute, Prime Minister Wardlow declared that the Conch Republic was entitled to $1 billion in foreign aid and war relief for the citizens’ suffering during this tedious rebellion.

Sir Peter Anderson, Secretary General of the Conch Republic, stated that, “. . . the Conch Republic (is) a sovereign state of mind, seeking only to bring more humor, warmth, and respect to a world in sore need of all three”. We Key West residents consider ourselves citizens of both the United States and the Conch Republic and in true Key West spirit, the anniversary of the secession is celebrated every year.

The 29th anniversary of the Conch Republic’s independence started April 22 and will continue through May 1. Many festivities and flags proudly display the slogan, “We Seceded Where Others Failed”.  Events include a reception aboard the USS Ingham Memorial Museum ship, the Conch Republic royal family investiture party, the Great Battle for the Conch Republic in Key West Harbor and the Annual Conch Cruise Car Show.  You can find the complete schedule on the Conch Republic website.

My enthusiasm never dims for this island with so much spirit, humor, and respect.  Truly the words spoken by our “Secretary General” ring true for Key West and this spirit creates a wonderful place to call home.  Let’s get started on your move to the Conch Republic! Margarita Villoch 305-304-8505.