Native Americans began occupying Indian Key by approximately A.D. 1000. The Spanish visited it during the 17th century, and by the early 19th century a trading post had been established on the island. Jacob Housman acquired the island in 1831, and it became a center for the wrecking industry. During its heyday in the 1830's, Indian Key had houses, wharves, warehouses, a hotel, bowling alley, and post office. It was the temporary home of botanist Henry Perrine and was visited by naturalist J.J. Audubon. On August 7, 1840, the island was attacked and burned by "Spanish speaking Indians," and the attack and the events surrounding it formed a major episode in the Second Seminole War.