Newell Hall
Stadium Rd., Gainesville, FLNewell Hall is historically significant as the embodiment of the contributions of university-based practical and theoretical agricultural research to the economic development of Florida and the nation.
The Morrill Act of 1862, together with subsequent federal legislation, resulted in the establishment of an Agricultural Experiment Station on the campus of Florida Agricultural College, Lake City, in 1888. The purpose of the Station was to conduct scientific experiments and observations in order to disseminate new knowledge about Florida crops and soils. The potential of certain types of agriculture, especially citriculture, was becoming evident, and the role of the Agricultural Experiment Station was to stimulate further developments in agriculture, in order to allow Florida's farmers to take advantage of the national market. This market was becoming available to the state's farmers for the first time with the completion of railroad links between peninsular Florida and the growing urban centers to the north.
When the University of Florida was formed in 1906, the Agricultural Experiment Station moved to the new campus at Gainesville. It was originally located in Thomas Hall on the southern end of campus. Construction of a new building, now known as Newell Hall, began in 1909; it was completed the following year. The three-and-one-half-story structure was an indication of the growth in importance of the Station and its prominence as a cornerstone of the new university; it was designed to serve as a classroom building, and this wedding of classroom instruction to outside practical experience in Florida was formalized by the new Station's completion.
The Agricultural Experiment Station was renamed on May 12, 1944, in honor of Wilmon Newell. His career as Director of the Station, 1921-43; Dean of Agriculture, 1928-31; Provost for Agriculture, 1938-43; and Directo of the Agriculture Extension Service serves as a personal illustration of the close ties between academic and practical agriculture signified by the building named in his honor."
Local significance of the building:
The Morrill Act of 1862, together with subsequent federal legislation, resulted in the establishment of an Agricultural Experiment Station on the campus of Florida Agricultural College, Lake City, in 1888. The purpose of the Station was to conduct scientific experiments and observations in order to disseminate new knowledge about Florida crops and soils. The potential of certain types of agriculture, especially citriculture, was becoming evident, and the role of the Agricultural Experiment Station was to stimulate further developments in agriculture, in order to allow Florida's farmers to take advantage of the national market. This market was becoming available to the state's farmers for the first time with the completion of railroad links between peninsular Florida and the growing urban centers to the north.
When the University of Florida was formed in 1906, the Agricultural Experiment Station moved to the new campus at Gainesville. It was originally located in Thomas Hall on the southern end of campus. Construction of a new building, now known as Newell Hall, began in 1909; it was completed the following year. The three-and-one-half-story structure was an indication of the growth in importance of the Station and its prominence as a cornerstone of the new university; it was designed to serve as a classroom building, and this wedding of classroom instruction to outside practical experience in Florida was formalized by the new Station's completion.
The Agricultural Experiment Station was renamed on May 12, 1944, in honor of Wilmon Newell. His career as Director of the Station, 1921-43; Dean of Agriculture, 1928-31; Provost for Agriculture, 1938-43; and Directo of the Agriculture Extension Service serves as a personal illustration of the close ties between academic and practical agriculture signified by the building named in his honor."
Agriculture; Education; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
About National Register Listings
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.
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 Alachua County
Alachua County Timeline
Alachua County, located in northern Florida, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Timucua and Seminole people. They relied on the fertile soil and abundant water sources for their sustenance and developed intricate cultural practices.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers ventured into the region, establishing missions and attempting to colonize the area. However, conflicts with the Native Americans and the lack of resources hindered their efforts. The territory eventually came under British control in the late 18th century, followed by transfer to the United States after the Revolutionary War.
During the mid-19th century, Alachua County experienced a boom as many settlers arrived, drawn by the promise of fertile lands for farming and the expanding railroad system. The city of Gainesville, Alachua County's seat, was established in 1854 and became an economic and cultural hub in the region.
However, the county also faced turbulent times during the Civil War, with significant impact and casualties endured. The University of Florida was founded in Gainesville in 1905, marking a turning point for education and intellectual growth in the region. Today, Alachua County continues to thrive as a diverse and dynamic community, preserving its history while embracing progress and growth.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers ventured into the region, establishing missions and attempting to colonize the area. However, conflicts with the Native Americans and the lack of resources hindered their efforts. The territory eventually came under British control in the late 18th century, followed by transfer to the United States after the Revolutionary War.
During the mid-19th century, Alachua County experienced a boom as many settlers arrived, drawn by the promise of fertile lands for farming and the expanding railroad system. The city of Gainesville, Alachua County's seat, was established in 1854 and became an economic and cultural hub in the region.
However, the county also faced turbulent times during the Civil War, with significant impact and casualties endured. The University of Florida was founded in Gainesville in 1905, marking a turning point for education and intellectual growth in the region. Today, Alachua County continues to thrive as a diverse and dynamic community, preserving its history while embracing progress and growth.
Alachua County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Alachua County, Florida.
- 1824 - Alachua County is established on December 29, 1824, as Florida's first inland county.
- 1832 - The first courthouse in the county is constructed in Newnansville.
- 1837 - Newnansville becomes the county seat.
- 1853 - Gainesville is established as a railroad depot, leading to the decline of Newnansville.
- 1868 - Gainesville becomes the county seat.
- 1905 - The University of Florida is established in Gainesville.
- 1915 - The Seagle Building, the first skyscraper in Gainesville, is completed.
- 1930s - The Great Depression impacts the county, leading to economic struggles.
- 1950s - Growth of the University of Florida and postwar development fuel population growth.
- 1969 - Santa Fe Community College is established.
- 1990s - A period of rapid growth and urbanization begins.
- 2001 - Celebration Pointe, a major mixed-use development, breaks ground.