Nestled in rural Seminole County, next to the Little Big Econ State Forest, Snow Hill's identity hangs on by a thread. A few dozen homes and a green highway sign provide the only indication of the community's long history. Early...
Seminole County
Seminole County boasts a rich history dating back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests indigenous people, likely the Seminole tribe, inhabited the region for millennia. European exploration commenced in the 16th century, with Spanish conquistadors leaving their mark.
Seminole County wasn’t officially established until 1913, carved out of Orange County. The area experienced significant growth throughout the 20th century, fueled by tourism and agricultural endeavors. Today, Seminole County flourishes as a vibrant hub, blending historic charm and modern conveniences.
Early Settlers of Snow Hill / Kolokee
Murder at Maison & Jardin and Sleepy Hill Farm in Altamonte Springs
Robert Henry and Verna Fluent Walsh left Chicago and moved to Altamonte Springs around 1925. They purchased an estate of about 24 acres along Wymore Road, just south of the Spring Valley subdivision and fronting the eastern shore of Spring...
Flying Seminole Ranch in Oviedo
The Flying Seminole Ranch was opened east of Oviedo in 1965. Its original owners were Tom Tuck and Jerry Lindsey. It had a 4000-foot grass runway and a training center for aspiring pilots. It was discussed as a possible more...
Maitland overpass marks the old town of Mayo
Hidden under the busy flyover intersection of Maitland Boulevard and US 17-92 are the reminders of a small town that once thrived here around 140 years ago. Mayo Avenue betrays its secret. Rudolph Gustave Mayo (August 22, 1829 - December...
Forest City, Florida – Plat Map from 1883
Here is the Forest City plat, filed with Orange County in 1883. I've overlayed 2023 landmarks on it to give reference. The red line is the old Orange Belt Railroad line, which is now (partially) a bike trail that is...
1890 Property Map of Lake Brantley area
Lake Brantley and Hunt Club area. This 1890 Orange County tax role map shows the property owners overlayed on the modern-day satellite view map. The red highlighted area indicates the section the Lewton family donated for the Lake Brantley Union...
Sanford Landmarks of the 1960s
This photo looks southward down Park Avenue from the Veteran's Memorial Park.
Visit to Lake Harney’s Mansfield Island in 1891
In January 1891, photojournalist Clarence Bloomfield Moore traveled down the St. Johns River with a small crew. It had become an annual tradition since he first journeyed deep into the Florida wilderness in 1879. Moore was a Harvard-educated archeologist from...
Pre-1860 Land Ownership in Seminole County
Armed Occupation Act Purchase from US Government Grant for Seminole War Service
Blumberg treasured her Winter Springs country oasis for nearly 50 years
Juanita and Lewis Blumberg sure led an exciting life! "Lew" moved to Orlando in 1933 and served in the army during World War 2. He earned Distinguished Flying Cross, Silver Star, 8x Air Medal, and a Purple Heart. After the...