Historical Markers in Charlotte County, Florida
Albert Waller Gilchrist
Bass Biological Labs/Cookie House
Charlotte County Courthouse
Charlotte Harbor Cemetery
Charlotte High School
City of Punta Gorda
Columbus G. McLeod - Protector of Plumed Birds
First Punta Gorda Home Site
First White Man Dies in America
Hector House Plaza: The Founding of Punta Gorda
Hickory Bluff Cemetery
Hickory Bluff Mound
Hickory Bluff Pioneers
Howard Homestead/Solana Plat
Indian Spring Cemetery
Juan Ponce de Leon
Lt. Carl A. Bailey Cemetery
Mound Cities By the Sea
Murdock
Myakka River Civil War Skirmish
Placida Bunk House
Ponce de Leon Historical Park
Punta Gorda Army Air Field World War II
Punta Gorda Railroad Depot
Site of Hotel Punta Gorda
Southernmost Railroad Terminal
Southland Trail Cemetery
The Cookie House
The Description and Naming of Florida
The Punta Gorda Bank
Town of McCall
Trinity United Methodist Church
The Everglades, one of Florida's most iconic natural landmarks, was not always a protected area. In fact, it was once considered a worthless swamp and was drained and developed for agricultural purposes in the early 20th century.
About Charlotte County
Charlotte County Timeline
Charlotte County, located on the southwestern coast of Florida, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by the native Calusa people, who thrived in the area for centuries due to its abundant natural resources and access to the Gulf of Mexico. The Calusa developed a complex society and left behind a legacy of impressive shell mounds and artifacts.
In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, led by Juan Ponce de León and Ferdinand Magellan. The Spanish claimed the region as part of their empire and established missions and forts in the area to convert the native population to Christianity and protect their interests. However, conflicts with the Calusa and other Native American tribes made it difficult for the Spanish to maintain a permanent presence in Charlotte County.
It wasn't until the 19th century that significant European settlement occurred in the area. In the mid-1800s, homesteaders from northern states began to migrate to the region, attracted by the fertile land and favorable climate. The small settlements of Punta Gorda and Englewood were established, and the area became known for its citrus groves and fishing industry.
In the 20th century, Charlotte County experienced rapid growth and development. The construction of the Tamiami Trail and the opening of the Peace River Bridge in the 1920s connected the county to nearby cities and fostered economic growth. The discovery of phosphate deposits in the area also brought prosperity, driving industrial development and attracting more residents.
Today, Charlotte County is a thriving, coastal community known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of history. The county boasts a diverse population and a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. With its rich heritage and scenic landscapes, Charlotte County continues to attract visitors and residents alike.
In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, led by Juan Ponce de León and Ferdinand Magellan. The Spanish claimed the region as part of their empire and established missions and forts in the area to convert the native population to Christianity and protect their interests. However, conflicts with the Calusa and other Native American tribes made it difficult for the Spanish to maintain a permanent presence in Charlotte County.
It wasn't until the 19th century that significant European settlement occurred in the area. In the mid-1800s, homesteaders from northern states began to migrate to the region, attracted by the fertile land and favorable climate. The small settlements of Punta Gorda and Englewood were established, and the area became known for its citrus groves and fishing industry.
In the 20th century, Charlotte County experienced rapid growth and development. The construction of the Tamiami Trail and the opening of the Peace River Bridge in the 1920s connected the county to nearby cities and fostered economic growth. The discovery of phosphate deposits in the area also brought prosperity, driving industrial development and attracting more residents.
Today, Charlotte County is a thriving, coastal community known for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of history. The county boasts a diverse population and a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. With its rich heritage and scenic landscapes, Charlotte County continues to attract visitors and residents alike.
Charlotte County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Charlotte County, Florida.
- 1887 - Charlotte County is established on April 23, named after the Bay of Charlotte Harbor.
- 1889 - The first courthouse is built in Punta Gorda, serving as the center for county government.
- 1924 - The Tamiami Trail, a road connecting Tampa to Miami, is completed, boosting economic growth in the region.
- 1940s - During World War II, Punta Gorda becomes an important training site for military pilots.
- 1960s - The construction of bridges and roads increases accessibility to Charlotte County, attracting more tourists and residents.
- 1992 - Hurricane Andrew causes significant damage to Punta Gorda and the surrounding areas.
- 2004 - Hurricane Charley strikes Punta Gorda, causing widespread destruction and leading to extensive rebuilding efforts.
- 2020 - Charlotte County continues to be a popular destination for retirees and tourists, offering a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities.