Altamonte Springs

Population45,517 (2021)
Incorporated1921

Altamonte Springs, Florida began as a railroad stop in the late 1800s. Wealthy tourists were drawn to the area, and the Altamonte Land, Hotel & Navigation Company capitalized by building a luxurious hotel. Citrus groves flourished until a freeze devastated the industry.

Residents adapted, growing asparagus and ferns before returning to citrus. Altamonte Springs officially became a town in 1921 and a city in 1967. Today, it’s a vibrant suburban community with excellent schools, shopping, and easy access to major highways.

Death metal started in Altamonte Springs

Death was born in Altamonte Springs. No, that's not some sort of poetic oxymoron. "Death" is the name of a band founded in 1983 by three students: Chuck Schuldiner, Kam Lee, and Rick Rozz. Schuldiner attended Lyman, while Lee and...

Eyesore on I-4: Origin of the Majesty Building

Majesty Building
It started as a building; it became a meme. Central Floridians never get tired of a good "Eyesore on I-4" joke. The never-ending construction project started in 2001 and (as of 2024) shows no signs of being completed... like ever....

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...

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...