Counties

Seminole County

County SeatSanford
Population478,772

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.

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...

Lake Monroe Public School, Constructed in 1919

The town of Lake Monroe was once a thriving community but much of its identity was swallowed up by I-4, and the rest erased by industrial buildings around the railroad of West Sanford. It overlays roughly with the former village...

Paola Historical Cemetery

The Paola Historical Cemetery, also known as the Banana Lake Cemetery or Paola Church Yard Cemetery, is an unassuming lot recently cleared of underbrush in hopes of being finally developed. It is estimated that around 60 graves were once buried...

East Altamonte Clings to its Heritage

Against all odds, East Altamonte has persisted for over 130 years. The historically black community is surrounded by valuable real estate and three land-hungry municipalities. “In 20 years, Winwood will not exist,” Alcee Hastings, the community’s most famous son, said...

Nolan House in Altamonte Springs

Yesterday, I stopped by the Nolan House in Altamonte Springs. I've been meaning to for a while, after numerous "trips" there on Google Street View. I serendipitously ran into owner Carmen Bierman, who was hanging out on the porch. The...

Kingsbury House is Winter Springs Town Center Hold Out

A lone single-family home sitting behind the Winter Springs Town Center, between an apartment complex and Magnolia Square (where Winter Springs hosts many festivals). The home was built in 1975 on a tract that included at least 16 acres. The...