<em>Photo above: Board members, special guests, and dignitaries cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony of the Santa Elena History Center.</em>

The much-anticipated inaugural exhibit, Santa Elena: America’s Untold Story opened Saturday, April 30th, at the Santa Elena History Center located at 1501 Bay Street in downtown Beaufort.

Prior to the ribbon cutting, the Men of Menendez re-enactors and the Parris Island Marine Corps Quintet entertained the attendees. Special guests included Spanish Consul General Candido Creis, Commanding General Terry Williams, local dignitaries, the Santa Elena Board of Directors and Lead Archaeologist Dr. Chester DePratter.

Following the ceremony, those present enjoyed a community festival with a BBQ Lunch, Spanish Music, face painting, Marsh Tacky horses, and more demonstrations.

[caption id="attachment_28443" align="aligncenter" width="626"]<img class="wp-image-28443 " src="http://www.yourislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/HistoryCenterOpening-9-1024x683.jpg" alt="HistoryCenterOpening-9" width="626" height="418" /> Re-enactors “Men of Menendez” from Florida fire matchlock guns during the opening ceremony.[/caption]