"SeaBreezeUSA's new Jacksonville page" Jacksonville by SeaBreezeUSA

Jacksonville Travel Guide: 393 reviews and 736 photos

A Touch of History

Long ago, Northeast Florida was first inhabited by Timucuan Indians who lived along creeks and waterways. The Spanish came into the area in 1513, led by Juan Ponce de Leon. He named the area La Florida and, in doing so, established the region's rich tradition of history and heritage. In 1564, the French built Fort Caroline in what is now Jacksonville, establishing the first Protestant colony in America. They lost their foothold in Florida to the Spanish, who conquered the French and built a settlement in nearby St. Augustine in 1565, 55 years before the Mayflower landed in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

The first community of freed black slaves in the United States, Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose, or Fort Mose, was established north of St. Augustine in 1738.

A major page of history turned when Florida became a U.S. territory in 1821 and a year later at "Cowford" a narrow spot on the St. Johns River to ferry cows across, the town of Jacksonville was established (named after General Andrew Jackson). By the time Florida achieved statehood in 1845, Jacksonville was an important port in the cotton and timber trades.

During the mid-to-late 19th century, Jacksonville was billed as the "winter city in summerland" and became a haven for those seeking respite from colder northern climes. The warm, sunny climate, beautiful beaches, a major shipping port, and the busy waterways drew tourists from around the world.

A raging fire in 1901 destroyed 2,368 downtown buildings but launched a renaissance which set the city on its modern-day course. Although slowed somewhat by the depression, Jacksonville rebounded during World War II with the building of military installations. In 1968, the city and county governments were joined to create the geographically largest city in the contiguous 48 states. At about the same time, modern skyscrapers and additional bridges were built making way for major development south of the river.

For the next 25 years, Jacksonville's river and its ocean port again served as the lifeblood of the area, attracting many new residents, businesses and visitors. The city quietly evolved into a major business center of the South. In 1993, the quiet ended. The National Football League awarded a franchise to Jacksonville, pushing the city into the national spotlight and toward a new destiny.

Today, Jacksonville is an exciting vibrant city that maximizes its natural attributes and reaches out to welcome visitors.

Last visit to Jacksonville: Dec 1986
Intro Written Sep 11, 2002
Add to Trip Planner (?)
Report Abuse

Reviews (4)

Adventure Landing Things to Do (2)

Located just east of the Intracoastal Waterway, this family entertainment center features go-karts, laser tag, bumper... more travel advice

First Street Grille Restaurants (1)

Casual oceanfront dining with award-winning cuisine. Fresh seafood, steaks and chef's nightly creations. Voted... more travel advice

Jacksonville is a BIG city, in... - Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a BIG city, in... Transportation (1)

Jacksonville is a BIG city, in land area. I lived in Jacksonville for 5 years and it is the best city I have ever lived... more travel advice

Ghost Tours of St. Augustine Things to Do (2)

'A Ghostly Experience' is a 1 1/2 hour walk through the ancient streets of St. Augustine featuring a guide in period... more travel advice

Comments (14)

Reply
- Report abuse
b1bob Jul 18, 2002 at 10:32 PM

Nice job!
Reply
- Report abuse
acemj Nov 22, 2001 at 10:27 AM

I`m in Jax today!
Reply
- Report abuse
macedonija Jul 8, 2001 at 4:11 PM

great
Reply
- Report abuse
Sharrie Apr 19, 2001 at 9:07 PM

Another city worth exploring... I love its skyline!
Reply
- Report abuse
mariana67 Mar 31, 2001 at 1:19 AM

thank you for history of town
Reply
- Report abuse
MissyWQ Jan 30, 2001 at 8:29 AM

Thanks for info!
Reply
- Report abuse
JRW Jan 19, 2001 at 2:05 PM

Great info!
Reply
- Report abuse
AliJoe Nov 25, 2000 at 2:21 AM

Very well commentry ,Excellent page Paul !!
Reply
- Report abuse
rachel_sun Nov 16, 2000 at 4:52 PM

sounds my kind of place...
Reply
- Report abuse
ClaesDenmark Sep 23, 2000 at 3:38 PM

Fine info - Great pictures - good page