Who Were the Native Americans in West Palm Beach?

The Native Americans who inhabited the area now known as West Palm Beach were primarily the Jeaga people, among other indigenous groups of southeast Florida such as the Jobe, Ais, and Tequesta.

Early Indigenous Peoples of Southeast Florida

Long before European arrival, the southeastern coast of Florida, including what is now Palm Beach County, was home to various distinct indigenous cultures. Archaeological evidence indicates a significant presence of these groups for thousands of years.

• The Jeaga Tribe: The Jeaga were a prominent indigenous group in the region, with settlements in modern-day Palm Beach County dating back at least 5,000 years. Their long history in the area underscores their deep connection to the land and its resources.
• Other Tribes: While the Jeaga were central to the Palm Beach area, other tribes like the Jobe, Ais, and Tequesta also inhabited parts of southeast Florida, contributing to the rich tapestry of the pre-Columbian landscape.

Arrival of Europeans

The historical landscape for these indigenous peoples began to change dramatically with the arrival of Europeans. In 1519, Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León made landfall at the Jupiter Inlet, marking the first documented European contact with the native populations of this region. This encounter initiated a new era that would profoundly impact the lives and cultures of the indigenous inhabitants.

Key Indigenous Groups in Southeast Florida