Florida, usually known for golf, shark bites, and lightning, is now in the news for a new strange history. An ancient wooden canoe was discovered in 2022 while digging in the backyard of a Fort Myers resident. It is believed to have been washed up from the bottom of the river by Hurricane Ian.

State archaeologists have added the canoe to their collection after a long period of preservation. The Florida Department of Historic Preservation already has more than 450 ancient canoes, but the newly discovered canoe is of particular importance because it is made of mahogany wood and is likely not native to Florida, but rather from the Caribbean.

Inside the boat were found parts of a 19th-century ship, broken pieces of a kerosene lamp, and two coconut shells, which were probably used to store drinks. Scientific tests are underway to determine the age of the canoe, which is about 9 feet (2.7 meters) long. Researchers believe it was built by Spanish explorers in the 16th century.

"It's not like a typical canoe," said Florida Deputy State Archaeologist Sam Wilford. "It's not like a typical canoe. The wood and shape are not native, but it shows signs of iron tools, which are only seen after the arrival of Europeans."

Florida has more than 200 ancient canoes in its history. They were mainly used by the Miccosukee and Seminole tribes. Since one-fifth of the state is wetlands, canoes were an essential part of their lifestyle.

The oldest canoe found in Florida is near Orlando, which is believed to be 7,000 years old. Florida can therefore be called a treasure trove of ancient canoes in the Western Hemisphere.