"Site Presented by The Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce and The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce." Design & Hosting donated by CNI Contact Info: 772-589-5969 Email Us Copyright 2006: All photos are the property of the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Photos Taken By: Wendell Metzen and George Nelson.   On March 14th, 1903, the dream of one man with a boat became reality. Sebastian resident, Paul Kroegel, had fought hard to protect the birds of Pelican Island from relentless "feather seekers". Through Paul's vision and the help of many friends one hundred years ago, President Theodore Roosevelt declared Pelican Island to be America's First National Wildlife Refuge. Marking the birth of the National Wildlife Refuge System, Pelican Island is celebrated as a habitat of splendor for Pelicans and many other bird species, as well as becoming a living legacy. With the Centennial quickly approaching, we invite you to discover the place that so many species of birds continue to call, "Home", just as their ancestors did so long ago. Come discover the Centennial Trail Boardwalk which officially opened on March 16th, 2003 for the Centennial Celebration - the official celebration of the birth of the National Wildlife Refuge System. 2007 News & Upcoming Events:   Pelican Island Wildlife Festival - Saturday, March 10, 2007, 9am - 4pm   History | Renourishment | Centennial Celebration | Centennial Trail | Visitor Info | Links | Media | Home