Although the area is named for Fort Hamer, the former military installation has never been precisely located through historical or archaeological research.

[2] Fort Hamer was established on November 28, 1849, as part of an order by Major General David E. Twiggs to remove Seminole people from Florida after various pioneer outposts in the state were attacked by Seminole outsiders.

[3] Named after Gen. Thomas L. Hamer, a brigadier general and strong ally of Andrew Jackson, the fort consisted of several log buildings including a hospital, commissary, hay barn and accommodations for around 165 soldiers at its inception.

The stretch of forts constructed under General Twiggs's command were abandoned only a year after opening.

The area was described as a sandy bank on the Manatee River that was a popular location for boating and day-trips.