OUR HISTORY

1500: Spanish conquistadors arrive in the 1500s, captivated by the land's beauty, naming it Florida, meaning “place of flowers.” They encounter the Timucuan tribe in Central Florida, including Winter Park. Over time, Spanish policies force the Timucuans into mission villages, leading to their decline due to war, disease, and hunger. By 1767, the last known Timucuan dies, and in 1819, the U.S. acquires Florida from Spain.

1850 - 1870: In 1858, David Mizell, the first white settler, arrives, buys eight acres, and builds a log cabin, naming the area “Lake View.” Adventurous settlers are drawn to untamed Florida, following old Indian trails with little civilization in sight.

1880: New Englanders Oliver Chapman and Loring A. Chase purchase 600 acres for $13,000, envisioning a planned community for wealthy Northerners, naming it “Winter Park.” They develop residential sites, a hotel, schools, and parks, attracting tourists via the new railroad. In 1882, they open the first general store and establish the town's post office. Winter Park soon becomes a winter resort with elegant hotels and a vibrant social scene. In 1885, Rollins College, Florida's first four-year institution, opens, welcoming both men and women. President Chester A. Arthur declares it “the prettiest place” in Florida. The luxurious Seminole Hotel opens on New Year’s Eve 1886, becoming the state's largest hotel.

Chapman and Chase employ the local African-American community, leading to the establishment of the town's first newspaper by Gus Henderson. In 1887, Winter Park is incorporated. The Orlando and Winter Park Railway, known as the “Dinky Line,” opens in 1889, providing stylish transport for Rollins students.

1890 - 1900: By the early 1890s, citrus farming becomes Winter Park's main industry, growing the population to over 100. However, devastating freezes in 1894 and 1895 destroy the citrus crop, reducing the population to 500 by 1900. In 1904, industrialist Charles Hosmer Morse moves to Winter Park, buying land and donating it for community use.

1910 - 1920: Visitors begin purchasing winter homes, bringing northern architectural styles and naming streets after their home states. The African-American community supports the growing tourist population through various trades and businesses. By 1923, citrus groves revive, initiating a new land boom with the popular Temple orange cultivated by Louis Hakes.

1930 - 1950: The Great Depression impacts the community, but local figures pledge funds to keep the bank afloat. In the late 1930s, Jeannette Genius McKean establishes the Morse Museum of American Art, while the Mead Botanical Garden opens to the public. The Langford Hotel opens with modern amenities, and the Bush family contributes significantly to the community, especially Rollins College.

1960 - 1980: In September 1960, Hurricane Donna strikes, causing significant damage. The Albin Polasek Museum opens in 1961. The completion of Interstate 4 brings growth, and Cuban children arrive as refugees, integrating into local schools. In 1966, Walt Disney announces plans for a theme park nearby, enhancing Winter Park's appeal. The Winter Park Historical Association is founded in 1974 to preserve local history.

1990 - 2000: Park Avenue becomes vibrant with new developments, restaurants, and annual events that foster community spirit. The Morse Museum reopens in 1995, showcasing Tiffany's work, while Full Sail University opens, offering creative degrees. The Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival attracts 300,000 visitors by 2005.

2010 - Present: Winter Park is ranked #38 in historic destinations by National Geographic Traveler in 2008, and its Downtown Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. While the logging and citrus industries have declined, the town thrives with year-round residents, preserving its historical charm and natural beauty.