Downtown LaBelle Historic District

Hendry County, located in the southwestern part of Florida, has a rich and diverse history. The area was once inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Calusa and Seminole peoples, who relied on the rivers and abundant wildlife for their sustenance. These tribes left a lasting impact on the region, with archaeological evidence of their settlements and artifacts still being discovered today.

European exploration of Hendry County began in the 16th century when Spanish explorers arrived in Florida. However, it wasn't until the early 19th century that the area started to be settled by pioneers and ranchers. The establishment of Fort Thompson in the mid-1800s as a military outpost played a crucial role in attracting settlers to the region. The fort provided protection against Native American attacks and served as a hub for trade and transportation.

The foundation of modern Hendry County was laid in 1923 when the county was created out of parts of Lee County. Agriculture became the main industry, with the rich alluvial soil along the Caloosahatchee River being well-suited for farming. Sugarcane, citrus, vegetables, and cattle farming became the backbone of the local economy.

Over the years, Hendry County has seen significant growth and development. The construction of the Herbert Hoover Dike in the 1930s provided flood control and enabled more land to be used for agriculture. The growth of the sugarcane industry, in particular, brought prosperity to the area. Today, Hendry County continues to be an agricultural hub, attracting both small and large-scale farming operations, while also embracing tourism and outdoor recreation as important industries for the region.