National Register Listing

Freedman-Raulerson House

a.k.a. Old Raulerson House

600 S. Parrot Ave., Okeechobee, FL
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

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.

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Florida is home to the largest collection of natural springs in the world, with over 600 freshwater springs located throughout the state.
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Okeechobee County, Florida has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. First inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Calusa and Seminole, the area around Lake Okeechobee served as a resource-rich hub for fishing and hunting. European explorers started to arrive in the 16th century, with Spanish explorers like Juan Ponce de León and René Goulaine de Laudonnière making expeditions to the region.

The 19th century brought significant changes to Okeechobee County as settlers began to establish permanent settlements. The area was part of the vast frontier, attracting homesteaders and ranchers seeking new opportunities. In 1917, Okeechobee County was officially formed, named after the massive lake that dominates its landscape. The construction of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad in 1915 further spurred development and trade in the region.

One of the most notable events in Okeechobee County's history is the Great Okeechobee Hurricane of 1928. This catastrophic hurricane caused extensive damage and loss of life, highlighting the need for better flood control measures. Consequently, the Herbert Hoover Dike was constructed around Lake Okeechobee in the 1930s as part of the larger efforts to control water levels.

In recent years, Okeechobee County has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The county is known for its prime fishing spots, diverse wildlife, and proximity to the renowned Everglades National Park. Today, Okeechobee County continues to evolve and thrive, balancing economic growth and preserving its unique natural resources.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Okeechobee County, Florida.

  • Okeechobee County, Florida was established on May 8, 1917.
  • In 1926, the Okeechobee hurricane struck the region, resulting in significant damage and loss of life.
  • In the 1930s, the construction of the Herbert Hoover Dike began to protect the area from flooding.
  • During World War II, Okeechobee County became home to a military training camp called Camp Murphy.
  • In 1947, the area experienced another devastating hurricane known as the Fort Lauderdale Hurricane.
  • In the 1950s, the population of Okeechobee County began to grow as agriculture and tourism industries developed.
  • In 1979, Okeechobee County was designated as a part of the Okeechobee Battlefield Historic State Park.
  • The 1990s saw continued growth and development, with the establishment of the Okeechobee County Airport and the Okeechobee Livestock Market.
  • In recent years, Okeechobee County has faced environmental challenges, including concerns over water pollution and the health of Lake Okeechobee.