May celebration planned to celebrate Fort Pierce Inlet’s century

Fort Pierce Inlet 2021

JOE SEMKOW

A monthlong celebration to commemorate the opening of the Fort Pierce Inlet 100 years ago is being planned for May.

The opening of the inlet on May 8, 1921, and subsequent dredging projects led to the creation of the Port of Fort Pierce and created one of the safest inlet’s on Florida’s east coast, attracting both commercial vessels and recreational boaters and pumping millions each year into the Treasure Coast economy.

A centennial committee headed by Charles Hayek of Fort Pierce and including Fort Pierce Mayor Linda Hudson has been formed to oversee the celebration.

Before the inlet was dredged, boats used a small constantly changing passage known as the Indian River Inlet until tide and storms began obstructing passage in the late 1800s until finally closing it in 1910.

These are the events planned so far. Stay tuned to this site for any changes or updates.

Monday, May 3
6 p.m.— City proclamation, Fort Pierce City Hall

Tuesday, May 4
10 a.m. — County proclamation, Roger Poitras Building, 2300 Virginia Ave.

Friday, May 7
5 p.m. —Special Friday Fest on waterfront in Fort Pierce to celebrate inlet’s opening.

Saturday, May 8
10 a.m.— Flag-raising and prayer service at Smithsonian Marine Ecosystems Exhibit, 420 Seaway Drive.
11 a.m. — Boat parade/Blessing of the Fleet at Summerlin Dock, 320 Seaway Drive. Barbecue after parade at Museum Park featuring music, hot dogs and hamburgers.

Saturday, May 15
1921 cocktail party at Fort Pierce Yacht Club.

Saturday, May 22
Fishing Tournament/fish fry at Little Jim Bridge Bait and Tackle

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