ORLANDO, Fla. (Nov. 3, 2025) — From shrimp boats and barrier islands to colonial battlefields and the rhythms of the Gullah Geechee, Nassau County’s rich past takes the spotlight in the season finale of Florida Road Trip, airing 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6 on WUCF and 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, on Jax PBS.
Hosted by Emmy® Award-winning journalist Scott Fais, this episode uncovers centuries of influence and identity at Florida’s northern gateway, where Callahan’s railroad roots meet the coastal culture of Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island’s storied history under eight different flags.
Featured interviews include:
- John Hendricks, West Nassau Historical Society
- Helen Meyers, Amelia Island Museum of History
- Carol J. Alexander, A.L. Lewis Museum at American Beach
- Charles Tingley, St. Augustine Historical Society
- Roger Smith, Ph.D., Author & Historian
- David Head, Ph.D., Author & Historian
- Marsha Dean Phelts, Author & Historian
- Saundra Morene, Jacksonville Gullah Geechee Nation
- Keith Post, St. Marys Submarine Museum
Episode highlights include:
- A journey through Callahan’s early days shaped by timber, turpentine and trains
- The rise of Amelia Island — the famed “Isle of Eight Flags” — and Fernandina Beach’s golden age of shrimping
- The inspiring story of American Beach, built by Florida’s first African-American millionaire, A.L. Lewis, as a haven “for recreation and relaxation without humiliation”
- A visit to the St. MarysSubmarine Museum, where stories of service and sacrifice come to life
From Revolutionary War skirmishes to the soul of the Gullah Geechee corridor, Nassau County stands as a living timeline of Florida’s past and a testament to the communities that continue to preserve it.
Now in its eighth season, Florida Road Trip is WUCF’s original series showcasing the stories, cities and culture that define the Sunshine State. From steamboat towns to space labs, the series connects audiences to Florida’s past and present, one road trip at a time.
Stream the episode for free the day after broadcast on wucf.org or binge early with WUCF Passport.
To explore episodes and learn more, visit floridaroadtrip.org. Media kit and episode images available here.
To request interviews with featured guests or producers, contact:
Christine Dellert Mullon, christine@sondersays.com, 407.718.0199
About WUCF: WUCF serves as the region's trusted source for educational programming, arts, culture and local storytelling. As Central Florida's only PBS affiliate and home for jazz, WUCF offers free, accessible content that enriches lives, fosters curiosity and strengthens the community. Guided by the mission "We Change Lives," WUCF is committed to connecting, inspiring and empowering audiences across all platforms. To explore WUCF's impact and programming, visit www.wucf.org.