The Manatee River has always been an important part of Bradenton’s history. It started with the Native Americans before the arrival of Spanish explorers in the early 16th century. During the 1850s, it was a critical source for transporting sugarcane that was produced by local plantations. Its first pier, now called the Memorial Pier, was built in 1878. Today, this waterfront along the western edge of downtown is home to the Twin Dolphin Marina and perched seagulls.
