Bethune, Mary McLeod, Home
a.k.a. Mary McLeod Bethune Foundation
Bethune-Cookman College campus, Daytona Beach, FL Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
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 Seminole Wars, a series of conflicts between the United States government and the Seminole Tribe of Florida, lasted for over 40 years from 1817 to 1858. The wars were some of the longest and most expensive conflicts in American history.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Volusia County witnessed the arrival of settlers from various backgrounds. These included English, Scottish, and African Americans who established agricultural communities and plantations. The largest settlement, New Smyrna, was established by Andrew Turnbull, a Scottish physician, in 1768. This settlement, however, faced numerous challenges and ultimately failed.
In the late 19th century, the arrival of the railroad brought significant growth and development to Volusia County. The city of DeLand, founded in 1876, became a key hub in the region. The county also saw the emergence of the tourism industry with the establishment of beachside resorts and hotels, attracting visitors from all over. In 1925, Daytona Beach became known as the "Birthplace of Speed" with the establishment of the Daytona International Speedway, hosting iconic racing events such as the Daytona 500.
Volusia County continued to grow throughout the 20th century, with advancements in transportation, infrastructure, and the arrival of major businesses. The county is home to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, one of the world's leading aviation and aerospace institutions. Today, Volusia County remains a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and a thriving economy.
Volusia County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Volusia County, Florida.
- 1804: The area that would become Volusia County is acquired by the United States through the Treaty of Paris.
- 1832: The area is established as part of Mosquito County.
- 1854: Mosquito County is divided, and the southern portion becomes known as Orange County.
- 1855: Volusia County is established, incorporating the southern portion of Mosquito County.
- 1876: The county seat is established in Enterprise.
- 1887: The county seat is moved to DeLand.
- 1957: The Florida Legislature approves the incorporation of Daytona Beach as a city.
- 1963: The county seat is officially moved back to DeLand.
- 1987: The incorporated city of Deltona is established.