Choctawhatchee

The Choctawhatchee River winds south through wooded lowlands toward the broad bay that bears its name on Florida's Gulf coast. Its valley was a route of travel and exchange for Native peoples, including the Chacato to the east. In 1677 an Apalachee force, guided by Chacato companions, crossed a river identified with the Choctawhatchee while pursuing the Chisca. Dense woods and high water slowed their passage through this country of streams and forests.