Pirates, Shipwrecks, and the Wild History of Key West In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a historical journey through Key West's intriguing past, covering pirates, naval missions, and shipwreck salvage. The story begins in the 1820s with the US Navy's efforts to eliminate pirates in the Caribbean, leading to the rise of the Mosquito Fleet. Michele details Commodore David Porter's pivotal role and the emergence of legal wreckers who turned shipwrecks into lucrative ventures, contributing to Key West becoming one of the wealthiest cities per capita in the United States. The episode also highlights notable sights in Key West, such as the Key West Shipwreck Museum and various historical markers. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Historic Marker Monday: Pirates and Treasure Hunters 05:04 The Rise of the Mosquito Fleet 09:21 The Wreckers: Turning Disaster into Fortune 13:14 Exploring Key West's Rich History 16:32 Wrapping Up and What's Next