Key West of 2012 is much different that the days of the marauding pirates of the 1800's, but much of the heritage is still present today. The days of the wreckers, something of a pirate group themselves is brought to the forefront many times a year with the "Wrecker's Races", and the celebration of the history of Key West. Pirates like others need a place to rest their weary bones and for the modern day pirate of Key West lerk along the canals of Key Haven on Stock Island just to the East of Key West.
Hidden from the prying eyes of the tourists and others is the very unique lairs of the modern day pirates of Key West, or at least the ones who like to feel like they are. Down the maze of canals that make up Key Haven are some of the more unique dwelling in the area. This is really just a very up scale community, but with the unique houses and twisting canals, it is very much like heading into a secret maze that you can expect to find a pirate waiting around the bend ready to ambush you.
Did I say a pirate, how about a fortress, one complete with antique cannons and howitzers point at you as you round the bend. This is a beautiful place that is hidden in the palm trees complete with a widow's watch and a strong Spanish style architecture. It is the castle of some famous pirate, it must be, not really, but your imagination can take you there as you cruise these waterways. It is the very uniqueness of the houses here in Key Haven that draws me to cruise the dinghy through her quite often.
Should you find yourself out on the east side of Stock Island in Boca Chica Channel, see if you can find the entrance to Key Haven and at idle speed, cruise through the waterways and enjoy the wide variety of sights in the neighborhoods. Remember these are private house and docks, so show the residents the respect that you would like when they go through your neighborhood. It is still a great adventure for us with an imagination. ;o)
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