Forgotten American Files
A Race To Florida
Case File: FAF-003
Collection: Forgotten American Files
Research Institute: NFP
Author: Douglas Estill
Published: 06/08/2026
Most Americans know that St. Augustine, Florida, was founded in 1565 and stands today as the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States. Yet by beginning the story there, history begins at the end rather than at the beginning.
The Lost Colony Wasn’t Lost
Case File: FAF-002
Collection: Forgotten American Files
Research Institute: NFP
Author: Douglas Estill
Published: 06/12/2026
History has a habit of remembering kings, admirals, and governors while overlooking the people whose lives gave meaning to great events. The Lost Colony was not composed of legends. It was composed of human beings.
After Roanoke
Case File: FAF-001
Collection: Forgotten American Files
Research Institute: NFP
Author: Douglas Estill
Published: 07/07/2026
When Governor John White sailed away from Roanoke Island in August 1587, he believed he would return within a matter of months.
Instead, England went to war with Spain.
Ships were commandeered.
The Spanish Armada threatened England’s survival.
Three years passed before White finally stood again upon the shore of Roanoke.