Charles D. Haines, a man of diverse ventures, left a unique mark on Altamonte Springs. Though initially drawn to the Florida sunshine for health reasons in 1913, his keen eye spotted an unexpected opportunity. Recognizing the area’s potential for fern cultivation, Haines, a former congressman from New York, embarked on a new chapter. Leveraging his business acumen honed during his railroad ownership days, Haines established the Royal Fern Corporation in 1922. This innovative venture, spanning a whopping 140 acres, became the world’s largest fern operation, revolutionizing Altamonte Springs’ image.