National Register Listing

Downtown Bonifay Historic District

a.k.a. HO00564

Nebraska Ave.; Oklahoma Ave.; Evans Ave.; Martin St., & Etheridge St., Bonifay, FL
Local significance of the district:
Commerce; Politics/government; Community Planning And Development; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2020.

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.

commerce politics government community planning and development architecture
The first European to explore Florida was actually a Spanish sailor named Juan Ponce de León in 1513, not the more well-known Christopher Columbus.
Florida random facts
Holmes County, located in the panhandle of Florida, has a rich and diverse history. The area was first inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Choctaw and Creek tribes. In the early 19th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, followed by American settlers who began to establish farms and plantations.

In 1848, Holmes County was officially established as a separate county, named after Thomas J. Holmes, a North Carolina legislator. As the area developed, agriculture became the primary industry. Cotton, tobacco, and timber were significant crops, and the county saw a rise in plantation farming.

During the American Civil War, Holmes County played a significant role. Many residents served in the Confederate army, and there were also skirmishes and battles fought in the area. The war had a profound impact on the county, leading to economic devastation and social unrest.

After the Civil War, Holmes County slowly recovered, and in the early 20th century, small towns and communities emerged. Local businesses, schools, and churches were established, and the county began to thrive once again. Today, Holmes County is known for its natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and close-knit community.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Holmes County, Florida.

  • 1812: Holmes County is established as a county in the Florida Territory.
  • 1818: After the First Seminole War, the U.S. acquires Florida from Spain, including Holmes County.
  • 1848: The county is officially organized, and the first government officials are elected.
  • 1861-1865: Holmes County, like much of the South, is heavily affected by the American Civil War.
  • 1905: The town of Bonifay is incorporated within Holmes County.
  • 1917-1918: Many residents of Holmes County serve in World War I.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression impacts Holmes County, leading to economic struggles for many residents.
  • 1950s: The establishment and growth of the Interstate Highway System brings increased connectivity to Holmes County.
  • 1998: Hurricane Georges makes landfall in Holmes County, causing significant damage.
  • Present day: Holmes County continues to be a rural area with a focus on agriculture, including farming and forestry.