Author Dr. Daryl Ferguson
AMERICAN CONQUISTADOR
New Read on Beaufort’s Earliest History
story by MEGAN THIBAULT MORRIS
It is often stated that “history is written by the victors.” For those who do not know the first European settlements were French and Spanish, and that they took place in modern-day Beaufort County, that ol’ saying may be the reason why.
The full story of America’s early history begins before Plymouth Rock and includes harrowing tales of culture wars and monarch competition. Finally, school history books are beginning to include this information in more detail, and local museums, like the Parris Island Heritage Society, Beaufort History Museum, and Coastal Discovery Museum, are sharing exhibits and artifacts with visitors. Meanwhile, one man is making a big move in elevating this story.
Dr. Daryl Ferguson, founder and chairman emeritus of the Santa Elena Foundation, is unveiling his first novel on this subject. American Conquistador is historical fiction based on eight years of research and mentorship from top scholars on the16th century. Dr. Ferguson’s passion for making this history better understood is evident in his commitment to research, write, and publish this new, exciting book.
“I hope that American Conquistador reiterates what is known about the 16th century here — and helps make it more widely known — in addition to sharing new findings and perspectives on a very complex history,” says Dr. Ferguson.
In fact, five hundred years ago, several European powers were battling for new territory, which we now call North and South America, upon the news that the earth was not flat, and explorers sailing from eastern Europe did not land in Japan. The discovery of the New World led to an intense territorial race, one that would lead to land claims by the victor. Ultimately, England was the victor, and that is why we predominantly speak English. The other countries involved included France, Spain, and Portugal, and the undertones of religious upheaval also played an important role in the plot of historical events with instrumental, global characters.
Before England’s successful entry into the competition, the battle over the New World was primarily between France and Spain. Ferguson’s book details the race between those two countries to settle and claim the New World. For both countries, there were several notable explorers. For our story here in Beaufort, there are two predominant ones.
The conflict between Jean Ribault, of France, and Pedro Menendez, of Spain, is a riveting story. The two crossed the Atlantic multiple times, often dealing with harsh weather and incomplete charts. They also crossed paths with each other. Ribault settled Charlesfort in 1565 and Menendez settled Santa Elena in 1566. One was responsible for the other’s demise, but we will not spoil that news here. This new novel details their strategy, what each had at stake, and how they contributed to America’s founding.
Santa Elena — named in 1526 — is fast approaching its 500th anniversary and is one of the oldest place names still in continuous use today. The timing of this new book positions Beaufort to fully embrace all elements of its early history and make the proper claims of our place in 16th century history. Adding this to the long list of other notable Beaufort history moments helps make it more complete. What a fascinating place and what a fascinating story!
Copies of the books will be available for sale at local bookstores and the Visitors Center by the end of April. To celebrate its publishing, Dr. Ferguson is hosting a Book Signing on April 26 at the Arsenal on Craven Street. The Beaufort History Museum will also be open during that time for attendees to view the Santa Elena exhibit.
