National Register Listing

River Road Historic District

Jct. of River Rd. and Stiles Ave., Orange Park, FL
Local significance of the district:
Architecture; Community Planning And Development

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture community planning and development
Florida was one of the first states to embrace the automobile, with the first auto race in the state taking place in 1904. Today, Florida is still known for its car culture, with numerous car shows and events taking place throughout the year.
Florida random facts
Clay County, Florida, is a county located in the northeastern part of the state. Its history dates back to the early 19th century when European settlers began to establish communities in the area. The county was officially created in 1858 and named after Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman.

During the 19th century, Clay County played a significant role in agriculture and timber production. The St. Johns River, which runs along the county's eastern border, provided transportation for goods, leading to the development of trade and commerce in the region. The establishment of plantations, especially for producing citrus fruits and cotton, further contributed to the county's economy.

The Civil War brought significant changes to Clay County as it did to the entire state of Florida. Many of the plantations in the area were devastated, and the county faced economic challenges in the post-war period. However, the construction of railroads in the late 19th century brought new opportunities for growth and prosperity. Railways connected Clay County to other parts of the state, facilitating the transportation of goods and attracting new industries to the area.

In the 20th century, Clay County experienced expansion and development, especially after World War II. The establishment of military bases in the county, such as Camp Blanding, brought an influx of new residents and stimulated the local economy. Today, Clay County is known for its natural beauty, with a mix of rural areas and suburban communities. It continues to attract people with its scenic landscapes, historic sites, and opportunities for outdoor activities.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Clay County, Florida.

  • 1828 - Clay County is established as a county in Florida.
  • 1840 - The county seat of Clay County is established in the town of Green Cove Springs.
  • 1858 - The St. Johns River and Clay County Railroad is completed, connecting the county to other parts of Florida.
  • 1861-1865 - Clay County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1883 - The first railroad bridge across the St. Johns River is built in Clay County.
  • 1924 - The Lower St. Johns River Basin is drained, leading to increased agricultural activity in Clay County.
  • 1942-1945 - Camp Blanding, a training ground for the U.S. Army during World War II, is established in Clay County.
  • 1994 - The Clay County Historical Society is formed to preserve and promote the history of the county.
  • 2021 - Clay County continues to grow and develop, with a diverse economy and a population that continues to expand.