Fajardo was founded in 1772as Santiago de Fajardo. Fajardo is known as "La Metrópolis del Sol Naciente" (the city that guards the sun of the Caribbean). On August 1, 1898 the USS Puritan under the command of Captain Frederic W. Rodgers, was sailing by the coastline of the city of Fajardo, when Rogers noticed the "Faro de Las Cabezas de San Juan" (Cape San Juan lighthouse) which was supposed to be the landing site for the US Army in Puerto Rico. Rodgers ordered some of his men ashore, which included Puerto Rican volunteers, with the mission of posting the American Flag atop the lighthouse. This impressive sight represent seven different ecological systems including coral reefs, beaches, lagoons, mangroves and dry forest within its 316 acres/128 hectares. The preserve is also a scientific research center, which serve as a home of many endangered species. Visitors can explore the reserve along a network of trails and board-walks.