It's island living we seek on this episode of Travel Thru History! We visit a spectacular chain of islands off the Southern coast of Florida known as the Florida Keys. The keys have a rich history and culture distinct from the Florida mainland and her story is filled with pirate adventures, mystery and intrigue. The locals call it the Conch Republic and proudly hoist their flag in rebel defiance, just like their pirate past. First, we'll visit the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum, named for the famous Treasure. Mel and his dive crew discovered over $500 million dollars worth of Gold and Silver waiting patiently on the bottom of the Atlantic for over 450 years. Next, we'll set sail to the Dry Tortugas, a small group of islands discovered by the famous "Fountain of youth" seeker, Ponce De Leon. There, we'll tour the incredible Fort Jefferson. We'll learn how the Dry Tortugas got their name and what's become of it over the last half-a century. Finally American literature enthusiasts will enjoy a look at Ernest Hemmingway's Key West home, where some of his most famous works were penned.