Sunrise Theatre
a.k.a. Sunrise Building; SL00799
117 S. 2nd St., Ft. Pierce, FL Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2001.
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.
Florida was once a Spanish colony for over 250 years, from 1565 to 1821, before being ceded to the United States as part of the Adams-Onís Treaty.
European exploration and settlement in the region began in the 16th century when Spanish explorers arrived in search of new lands and resources. During this time, the native inhabitants clashed with the Europeans, leading to conflicts and, eventually, the displacement of the indigenous populations.
In the 19th century, St. Lucie County experienced an influx of settlers, primarily from the northeastern United States and the Bahamas, seeking to establish agricultural communities. The region's fertile soil made it well-suited for the cultivation of citrus fruits, sugarcane, and pineapples. These agricultural endeavors played a significant role in shaping the county's economy and development.
Throughout the 20th century, St. Lucie County experienced various transformations. The construction of the St. Lucie Canal (now known as the Okeechobee Waterway) in the 1920s connected the county to Lake Okeechobee and the rest of Florida's inland waterway system, enhancing transportation and commerce. The growth of tourism in the mid-20th century also brought about changes, with the development of seaside resorts and the expansion of recreational activities.
Today, St. Lucie County continues to develop and thrive as a mix of agriculture, tourism, and residential areas. With its beautiful beaches, natural attractions such as the St. Lucie River and the Savannas Preserve State Park, and a growing population, the county remains an attractive destination for both visitors and residents seeking a slice of Florida's unique history and vibrant community.
St. Lucie County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of St. Lucie County, Florida.
- 1905: St. Lucie County is created as an independent county from the southern part of Brevard County.
- Late 1800s: The area begins to see settlement with the arrival of pioneers and early settlers.
- Early 1900s: Agriculture becomes a major industry in St. Lucie County, with citrus groves and pineapple plantations being established.
- 1920s: The expansion of the Florida East Coast Railway and the construction of bridges over the Indian River help boost the county's economy and population.
- 1942: With the entry of the United States into World War II, the area becomes home to military training bases, including the Naval Amphibious Training Base.
- 1950s: The county experiences significant growth as more people move to the area, fueling the development of residential communities and infrastructure.
- 1984: The St. Lucie County Historical Museum is established, showcasing the county's history and heritage.
- 2004: The devastating impacts of Hurricane Frances and Hurricane Jeanne hit St. Lucie County, causing widespread destruction and economic losses.
- Present: St. Lucie County continues to grow and evolve, attracting residents and visitors with its diverse natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and vibrant communities.