Historical Markers in
Lake County, Florida

Alice B. McClelland Bandshell Astor: "The Jewel of the St. Johns River" Atlantic Coast Line Train Depot Attorney Virgil Darnell Hopkins Battle of the Bulge Memorial Birth of the Florida Trail Boat Works Clifford House Dean R. Gilmore Dr. Edgar J. Banks Entrance Names Ferran Park Ferran Park Flagpole Dedicated March 3, 2001 Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway Fort Butler Fort Mason Harper House Holy Trinity Episcopal Church In Memory of the Groveland Four John P. Donnelly House Lady Lake Train Depot Lake Apopka Through the Years Lake County Courthouse Lake County Service Memorial Lake Eustis Lakeside Inn Memorial Band Shell Milner-Rosenwald Academy Montverde Academy Mount Dora Community Building Okahumpka Rosenwald School Old Joe Old Mount Dora Post Office On The Waterfront Robert M. McTureous, Jr. S.T.E. Pinkney Sonnentag Theater at the Icehouse The Casino The Clifford House The History of Groveland High School The Mount Dora Lawn Bowling Club The Pavilion The Pitman Residence The Rehbaum Warehouse The World War Town of Astatula Cemetery Villa City Witherspoon Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, No. 111 Woman's Club of Eustis Building
The Fountain of Youth, a legendary spring that was believed to grant eternal youth to those who drank from it, was thought to be located in Florida. Juan Ponce de León is said to have been searching for it when he discovered the land that would become Florida.
Florida random facts
Lake County, Florida has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Timucua and Seminole tribes. These indigenous peoples thrived off the land, utilizing the area's abundant resources for hunting, fishing, and farming.

European explorers began to arrive in the area in the 16th century, with Spanish explorers such as Juan Ponce de León exploring the region in search of the mythical Fountain of Youth. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that permanent settlements began to be established in Lake County. The area saw an influx of settlers, primarily from the northeastern United States, who were drawn to the region's fertile land and mild climate.

Lake County experienced significant growth and development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The citrus industry became a major economic driver, with vast groves of oranges and grapefruits being cultivated throughout the county. The railroad also played a crucial role in Lake County's development, connecting the area to larger cities and facilitating the transportation of goods and people.

In the mid-20th century, Lake County began to transition from primarily agricultural to a more diverse economy. Due to its scenic landscapes and natural attractions, tourism became a major industry in the area. The opening of theme parks such as Disney World in nearby Orange County also brought an influx of visitors to Lake County, leading to further economic growth and development.

Today, Lake County continues to grow and evolve, balancing its agricultural heritage with modern industries and a thriving tourism sector. With its abundance of lakes, scenic landscapes, and charming small towns, Lake County remains a popular destination for those seeking natural beauty and a rich cultural history.

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

  • 1837 - Lake County is established as a county in the state of Florida.
  • 1844 - The first permanent settler, Aaron Jernigan, arrives in the area now known as Tavares.
  • 1868 - The Florida Central and Peninsula Railroad is built, connecting Lake County to the rest of Florida.
  • 1883 - The first citrus groves are planted in Lake County, marking the beginning of the region's citrus industry.
  • 1887 - The town of Eustis is incorporated.
  • 1892 - The town of Clermont is incorporated.
  • 1906 - The first public library in Lake County is established in Tavares.
  • 1923 - The Florida State Legislature designates Tavares as the county seat.
  • 1944 - The U.S. Army establishes Camp Howze in Tavares as a training facility during World War II.
  • 1971 - The first edition of the Lake County Fair is held.
  • 1997 - The Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards opens, becoming the largest winery in Florida.
  • 2004 - Lake County experiences significant damage from four hurricanes: Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne.
  • 2014 - The first SunRail train service begins operating in Lake County, connecting the region to the greater Orlando area.