Hispanic heritage marks the very beginning of European presence in the Americas. Every year from September 15 to October 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States honors over 500 years of Hispanic and Latino contributions to American history and culture. Eastern National is proud to serve as a dedicated partner of the NPS, funding the programs that preserve and share these foundational narratives.

St. Augustine, Florida, established by the Spanish in 1565, is the oldest continuously occupied European and African settlement in the U.S., predating Jamestown by 42 years and Plymouth Rock by half a century.

At the center of St. Augustine stands Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. Designed by Spanish engineer Ignacio Daza, the fortification embodies Hispanic innovation and environmental adaptation. Eastern National Funds at Work support the site’s research initiatives and dedicated volunteer program.

Located south of Florida in Puerto Rico, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed San Juan National Historic Site preserves the formidable stone fortifications of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, which still stand as powerful symbols of Spain’s legacy in the Americas. Ensuring visitors further connect with this history, Eastern National recently updated and reprinted the official park handbook, The Forts of Old San Juan_ / Los fuertes del Viejo San Juan, in both English and Spanish.

Eastern National Funds at Work directly enhance educational programs and community celebrations, including traditional folk dance festivals and the annual Festival de Tunas. Support of America's national parks that interpret Hispanic culture ensures that these deep roots remain honored, preserved, and shared with every visitor.