Floridiana Magazine

History. Heritage. Home.

Hops – A New Florida Crop

Move over oranges, there’s a new crop in town!  Chalk it up to the popularity of craft beer and the number of craft breweries popping up around the state, interest is now brewing over a viable new crop in Florida – hops.

What are Hops?

Hops are one of the four main staples of beer, along with water, yeast, and barley. For craft beer drinkers, you might know that hops are responsible for the bitterness, flavor and aroma of the beer.

Wop’s Hops in Sanford is just one of the Florida breweries using hops from Central Florida Hops in its brewing process.

If you happen to pass a hops field, you may just do a double-take.  At first glance, the plants create the illusion of a lush green wall.  Growing 16 to 20 feet long, these green vines reach upward, guided by wires strung along poles. The flowers on the plants are the hops that are used in the brewing process.

But do you know how those hops get into that brew?  After they are picked off the vines, they can be used in three ways.  First, as wet hops by local brewers. If used this way, they have to be brewed within a day or two of being picked.  Another use is as a dried whole-cone hop.  These hops are harvested and dried out.  The final involves crushing the flowers and pressing them into pellets where they can be stored for a long time.  This method is the most user-friendly and widely used because of commercial availability.  Each method causes subtle differences in the brewing process and the end result.  The opportunity to use fresh hops is creating excitement among the craft brewers who are always looking to brew something just a little bit different.

Hops in Florida

Up until the last few years in the United States, hops fields were mostly found in the Pacific Northwest.  Now, they are sprouting up here in our state.  Estimates are there are as many as 10 to 15 hops farms in Florida, with the largest currently covering two and a half acres.

Central Florida Hops

Recently, we visited Central Florida Hops in Zellwood. Co-owner Matt Roberts showed us the field located next to Central Florida Ferns where he and his partners Kyle Barrett and Logan Vandermaas are all employed.  He said an interest in local craft beer and a desire to do something different led to the new venture.

“The more we researched hops,” he said, “the more we thought this might be doable. It was a challenge for us.  A challenge to be able to provide places we enjoy going to with hops.  That kind of sealed the deal for us.  And the local breweries love the idea of using a local ingredient.”

Our visit happened in January which coincided with the second harvest of the year for Central Florida Hops. Plenty of flowers remained on the vines, although the field had thinned out some due to local breweries and home brewers visiting the field the past week and picking hops for their use.  Because it’s never occurred before, a second harvest of hops within a calendar year might just be the innovation that makes hops growing commercially viable in Florida.

Matt agrees and expects that once the market expands, more growers will join in.

“The craft beer scene is what we have to lean on right now and it’s as popular as it’s ever been.  You really don’t realize how many hops these brewers use.  We can’t touch what they need and probably will never be able to.”

The popularity of craft breweries has led to brew tours.

Hops Research in Florida

Because hops growing is relatively new in Florida, it is still a learning process.  Data is limited, expectations are unknown.  A lot of what is done is simply trial and error.  However, there is some help on the horizon.  The Apopka branch of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) was awarded a two-year, $194,000 grant to see which hops varieties will grow in the state. Researchers have already determined Florida days are too short and a hops variety that doesn’t need as much sunlight may be the answer.  (In the Pacific Northwest, plants get 15 to 16 hours of daylight during the spring.)

At Central Florida Hops, light interruption from strategically placed light poles worked around that challenge.  The lights were turned on at midnight and ran for about an hour and a half.  Matt says the idea was to trick the plants into thinking it was a shorter night rather than a longer day.  It was an experiment, and some of the plants, like Cascade, reacted very well.

The Florida Difference

Whether it is Cascade or Triple Pearl or Tahoma, hops take on the characteristic of the soil, also known as terroir.  These same environmental conditions affect the taste of wine.  What is grown in Florida will taste, smell, and act much differently than that grown in other states.  Central Florida Hops planted its field on what was once an orange grove.  Brewers who’ve used the Cascade from here say there is a more citrus note to the hops.

The Spring Harvest and Beyond

With the initial success in growing their first crop (and second), coupled with the enthusiastic reception by Florida brewers, Central Florida Hops is currently preparing for the spring harvest.  The hops plants are the same from crop to crop, but after harvest they are cut off at the base, forcing all new growth.  Once the vines grow long enough, they are restrung on the wire supports – which should happen in March for the June harvest.  In addition, there are thoughts of expanding from the current quarter of an acre to half an acre. Central Florida Hops looks forward to the increasing excitement of local Florida brewers and coaching them on the use of fresh hops.  So be on the look out for Florida hops in the field and in Florida craft brews.

Matt admits year two will be interesting, but says with hops the sky is the limits.

 

Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando

No matter where you live in the state, chances are there are a few places nearby where you can disappear for a few hours and experience natural Florida.  Even in cities like Orlando, parks and gardens provide respite from the hectic pace.  You’ll find one of those locations just a short drive from downtown – Harry P. Leu Gardens.

I’ve driven by the entrance off Virginia Drive and Corrine many times in my 25-plus years in Orlando.  It wasn’t until I stopped for the first time years ago that I discovered this serene sanctuary in the city.

Who Was Harry P. Leu?

Harry P. Leu was born in Orlando in 1884 and went on to build one of the largest supply businesses in Florida.  He purchased the property on Lake Rowena in 1936 and filled it with plants he gathered in his travels around the world, with the camelia being one of his specialties.

The centerpiece of the Gardens is Harry and Mary Jane Leu’s house.  The house was restored to its grandeur and provided a look at turn-of-the-century Florida living.  It was added to the National Register of Historic Places December 29, 1994.  At the time of this post, the Leu House Museum is closed due to damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017.

In 1961, Leu deeded the property to the City of Orlando and the gardens were opened to the public.

Gardens and Exhibits

The Garden House serves as the welcome center to the gardens and is home to the gift shop, exhibit halls and classrooms, and a botanical library.  Once you walk out the doors, you are surrounded by the beauty of individual gardens.  Take a leisurely stroll around the pond in the Tropical Stream Garden or get ideas for your own yard in the Idea Garden. Winding walkways provide an easy trek through 50 acres of camellias, magnolias, ferns, and other botanical beauties.  Stop and smell the roses.  Or take a walk among the towering camphor trees.

Floral Clock

Another feature of the Gardens is the Floral Clock which sits behind the rose garden.  The 50-foot clock was imported from Scotland in 1966 and was donated by the Kiwanis Club of Orlando.

In addition to the gardens, fun exhibits provide guests with interactive experiences.  During our visit, The Ribbit Exhibit II (November 1, 2018 – January 31, 2019) sent us on a hunt for 26 whimsical frogs.  Sculpted out of copper, these frogs could be found meditating in a pond, watering plants, trimming hedges, riding bikes and jamming out on a washboard with the Ribbitsville Band.

Other exhibits have included dinosaurs, fairy doors and Lego sculptures.  Keep an eye on the website for future exhibits.  You don’t want to miss them.

Classes and Workshops

If you want more ideas for your own gardens, try one of the classes or workshops that are offered for folks of all ages.  Whether you want to learn the basics of growing orchids, or how to use lemons in your cooking, there is something for everyone.  Make sure to check out the calendar of events to find the right class for you.

Admission and Location

To get a complete picture of what Leu Gardens has to offer, make plans to see for yourself.  The Gardens are open every day (except Christmas Day) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The price of admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 4 – 17, and Leu Gardens members and children three and under get in free.  To get there from downtown Orlando, take I-4 east to Princeton Street and follow the signs to Leu Gardens located at 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando.

Enjoy more of our photographs from the Gardens, but be sure to visit and see the beauty for yourself.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Year in Review: Florida Eats

One good thing about traveling the state, visiting small towns is discovering old Florida restaurants.  We’ve had the chance to dine at some great places that served up not only good food, but good old Florida character!

Farmer’s Market Restaurant, Webster

Small town restaurants serve up more than just food – they offer hospitality with a touch of home. The Farmer’s Market Restaurant in Webster is no different.  It is a place to sit down for a meal and hear the locals around you talking about their week or asking about each other’s families.  It’s a place where you can enjoy a meal without being rushed to make room for the next customer.

This is a no-frills restaurant. A variety of kitchen gadgets adorn the walls. Shelves along the top of the walls hold plates and cups. A mixture of booths and tables provide seating in the dining area.

The buffet appears to be the more popular choice and, whether you are there for breakfast, lunch or dinner, provides enough culinary options to satisfy anyone’s cravings. And the best part is you can fill your plate and go back for seconds. From one end of the buffet to the other, it’s a diner’s dream. Oh, and the desserts?  One word: scrumptious!

The Farmer’s Market Restaurant is open Monday – Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Sunday from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Desert Inn, Yeehaw Junction (CLOSED)

The Desert Inn sits at the busy intersection of Highway 60 and U.S. 441 and had been a favorite lunch and dinner spot for locals, tourists and bikers out for their weekend rides, until it closed this past year.

The Desert Inn was established as a trading post in the late 1880s.  The current building can be traced to before 1925 when it served as a respite for cattlemen and lumbermen after long days of hard work. With the construction of roads in the 1930s, the Desert Inn saw an increase in the number of tourists who stopped by.  Then in the 50s, the turnpike was built, an exit added, and the name officially became Yeehaw Junction. (The area was known by several names in its early years: Crossroads, Jackass Crossing, and the Crossing.)  In 1994, the Desert Inn was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you want to read more about it before it closed, The Desert Inn was featured last March.

Kappy’s Subs, Maitland

Kappy’s Subs has been a Maitland icon for more than 50 years, serving Central Florida customers since 1967.  (It’s one of our favorites!)  This unpretentious diner backs up to the railroad tracks and sits at the busy intersection of Sybelia and North Orlando Avenue.

This is fifties dining at its finest – inside or out. Place your order at the walk-up window, then sit in your car in the limited covered parking outside or have a seat at one of the picnic tables for that true outdoor Florida feel.  The menu offers up typical diner food – everything from burgers to chicken nuggets to sandwiches, hot dogs and subs.

Kappy’s is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., on Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Beefy King, Orlando

Beefy King served its first roast beef sandwiches in 1968 in Orlando. The restaurant’s founder, Tom Viegle, came up with the idea during a trip to New York City where he visited a similar restaurant and decided it could be the next big hit for the restaurant industry.  Within a year of opening, Viegle sold the business to Freeman and Margaret Smith, whose grandchildren now run the restaurant. Although the company expanded and went public, it never took off as a franchise.  Only one Beefy King remained open – the original restaurant on Bumby Avenue.

The menu boasts being the “Home of the Real Roast Beef Sandwich,” but over the years has expanded to include ham, turkey, pastrami and corned beef.  The sandwiches come with just meat and a bun, but can be made to order with lettuce, onions, cheese and tomatoes.

Beefy King is located at 424 North Bumby Avenue, between Colonial Drive and Robinson Street.  It is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and on Saturday, from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.  Beefy King is closed on Sunday.

Angel’s Dining Car, Palatka

Angel’s has been serving customers since 1932, when Porter Angel took an old train dining car and converted it into a restaurant.  Situated along busy Highway 17 in the heart of Palatka, the pink and green awnings, the bright silver chrome exterior and its neon sign rising up into the sky make Angel’s easy to find.  True to its history, the diner still offers curb service. Simply park your car, honk your horn, and a waitress will come out and take your order.  Of course, there is indoor seating as well, even though it is limited.

Although we have not been there for breakfast, the menu features a variety of pancakes and omelets. Like other restaurants, Angel’s has its specialties.  Their onion rings are a must-have.  Other favorite menu items include the Black Bottom – scrambled eggs, bacon and ground beef on a bun and the Pusalow – a chocolate frosty drink that tastes a lot like a Yoo-hoo.

Andy’s Drive-In Restaurant, Winter Haven

Andy’s has been serving up meals for nearly 70 years.  Roger “Andy” Anderson opened the restaurant as a Dairy Queen in 1951, when it was surrounded by orange groves.  As the city grew, the landscape changed, and Andy’s now occupies a corner at the busy intersection of Avenue G Southwest and 3rd Street Southwest.  It was, and still is, a favorite gathering place for folks living in Winter Haven.

The menu says it all.  “Hungry? You’re in the Right Place!”  Andy’s describes its menu as “American standard fare featuring burgers, seafood, steaks & ice cream in a simple setting.”  Although there is a wide variety on the menu, the cheeseburger basket is to die for – a juicy burger served with crinkle cut fries and slaw.  Of course, don’t forget to top off your meal with one of their delicious award-winning milkshakes.

FM Notes: 

We have a list of additional diners to visit in 2019.  If you know of one, please leave us a comment so we can check it out!

Year in Review: Natural Florida

Florida is home to 175 state parks, trails, and historic sites, with countless other wildlife refuges and wildlife drives.  Looking back at 2018, we visited numerous places we consider to be natural Florida – some of them more than once.  Links to the original posts are embedded within the descriptions.

Pioneer Park, Zolfo Springs

Encompassing more than 115 acres, Pioneer Park sits at the intersection of U.S. Highway 17 and State Road 64 in Zolfo Springs in Hardee County.  The picturesque Peace River meanders through the park and serves as the source of many activities, from kayaking to canoeing, and even fossil hunting.

Other points of interest include the Hardee County Wildlife Refuge, the old pool house and the Cracker Trail Museum.  One of our favorite spots is the Pioneer Village which houses an old cabin, a blacksmith shop, and an old locomotive.

If you plan to visit, you might want to plan for February 28 through March 2 in order to experience the 51st Annual Pioneer Park Days.  You can find out more about the event in our original post here.

Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive

It’s hard to imagine someone living in the city relishing a two- or three-hour, eleven-mile drive.  But what if that drive steers you away from the clogged highways and winds through a wildlife paradise?  Whether you are looking for a leisurely way to spend the day or a chance to see Florida’s wildlife up close, the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is well worth the time.

From the moment you enter the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, the melody of Mother Nature replaces the sound of the city.  On both sides of the single-lane, hard-packed shell road, birds wade along the shoreline, alligators glide through the water, and osprey circle overhead. It is a photographer’s playground and a wildlife lover’s wonderland.

Since it is only 20 minutes from home, we have been to the drive four times over the past year. Each time provided a new experience for us – whether it was a bird or animal we hadn’t seen before or the sheer number of alligators out sunning themselves.

Make sure to take along your camera and binoculars because there are so many photo opportunities.  To truly enjoy the drive, plan on at least two hours and remember to be patient.  Even though there are areas to pull over, most of the drive is single-lane and it’s not uncommon to be in a line of slow-moving cars with occupants looking at all there is to see.

The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive begins at Lust Road and ends on Jones Avenue, and is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from sunrise to sunset.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Gainesville 

Sweetwater Wetlands is a man-made habitat located on the north end of Paynes Prairie in Gainesville.  The park, which is said to be shaped like an alligator head, was created to improve the water quality in the Alachua Sink and the Floridan Aquifer.  With more than three and a half miles of easy trails on 125 acres, Sweetwater Wetlands offers amazing views of plants, animals, and more than 215 species of birds.  If you’re lucky, you will be able to see the wild horses or bison that roam the prairie. Of the two times we have been to the park, we have been able to see some of the horses.  Viewing platforms, trails and boardwalks provide an up-close view of nature at its finest.

The park is open seven days a week, even on holidays, from 7:00 a.m. until sunset. There is a $5.00 entrance fee for the park.

FM Notes

With a renewed annual pass to Florida State Parks, we will be adding more to our 2019 calendar.  Leave a comment with your favorite park to visit in Florida.

 

Year in Review: Florida Travels

Over the past year, we have traveled the state looking for those places that represent the history and the heritage of Florida, as well as the spirit and the characteristics that make it home.  We covered a lot of ground in 2018 and hope you have joined us on some of our journeys.  Here are the highlights of the year, along with embedded links to the original posts.

Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda – It’s Happening on the Harbor – a motto that doesn’t disappoint.  Situated along the shores where the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor meet, Punta Gorda provides an eclectic mix of things to see and do: a relaxing waterfront, historic buildings, educational mural walk and a variety of shops and restaurants.

Check out our article for plenty of ideas to make your trip one to remember.

Richloam General Store

Sometimes you are lucky to stumble upon a Florida gem simply by venturing away from the highways and taking the backroads.  Such is the case with the Richloam General Store, tucked away in the Withlacoochee State Forest in Hernando County.  Definitely off the beaten path, but one of our favorite places we visited in 2018!  The store was built in 1920 and is the oldest historical building still standing in the Richloam area.  Staying true to the time period, it offers goods you would have seen in the 20s and 30s.  The store is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Read more about Richloam here and make plans to visit.

Sugar Sand Distillery, Inc., Lake Placid

When you think of Florida, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?  Maybe it’s the sunshine, or the beautiful beaches, or maybe even the theme parks, but have you thought about the wineries, or craft breweries, or even craft distilleries?  One of the newest distilleries in the state is Sugar Sand Distillery on Henscratch Road in Lake Placid.  Billed as Florida’s only estate grown sugar cane distillery, it opened its doors for tours and tastings less than a year ago.  It may be off the beaten path, but it’s worth the stop.

Click here to learn more about Sugar Sand.

The Orange Shop, Citra

Tucked away in North Central Florida, between Ocala and Hawthorne, is the small town of Citra.  Known as the home of the pineapple orange, Citra was founded in 1881 in an area where citrus was prominent.  While that is part of the town’s history, it isn’t the only unique feature about Citra.  It is also the home of The Orange Shop, one of the last true roadside citrus stands in Florida.  In business since 1936, the owners are third-generation growers who continue to harvest fruit from groves that have been producing since the Civil War.

Learn more about The Orange Shop and put it on your calendar before June first.

Things to See and Do in Apalachicola

Apalachicola is one of our favorite places to visit.  While some of the things we featured in our original post may not be exactly as they were prior to Hurricane Michael in October, it is still an amazing coastal town you don’t want to miss.  Apalachicola is up and running again and there are plenty of things to see and do.  As its name translates, it is the “land of the friendly people.”

Put it on your list of places to see in 2019!

Caladium Festival, Lake Placid

Florida is home to many festivals, ranging from the absurd to the logical.  By definition, festivals celebrate something unique about a community or its culture.  For the central Florida town of Lake Placid, that uniqueness is its designation as “Caladium Capital of the World.”  The idea for the Caladium Festival came from the Highlands County Tourist Development Commission as a way to promote the industry and, at the same time, create an event to bring visitors into town.

Make sure to mark your calendars for the 2019 festival on July 26, 27, and 28, but don’t wait until then to visit this gem of a town.

Bat Houses at University of Florida

Did you know that Florida is home to the world’s largest occupied bat houses?  In fact, they have become quite the nightly attraction.  The first bat house was built in 1991 to provide a new “home” for a colony of bats that were left homeless after a fire destroyed Johnson Hall in 1987.  There are now three bat houses with an estimated 400,000 bats now occupying these dwellings.  They are located on Museum Road at the University of Florida campus in Gainesville, just across from Lake Alice.  Take a look at the experience, then plan it for yourself!

Honors System Businesses

During our travels in 2018, we came across several businesses operating on the honors system, where collection boxes are used as the only means to pay.  It may sound like a risky venture, but the business owners we talked to told us most people are good and honest.  Most of the honors system businesses we found were local honey stands, all located along back roads, or along highways through the rural parts of the state. These businesses are reminiscent of a much simpler time in Florida and you can read more about them here.

Lake Wales, Florida

Known as the Crown Jewel of the Ridge, Lake Wales sits in the center of the state, just off Highway 27 and State Road 60.  With its historic roots, its quirky qualities, and its persona of a small city with a hometown atmosphere, Lake Wales is a true Floridiana find.  Whether you are taking a trip into downtown, visiting the tower on the hill, or participating in any number of festivals and celebrations, nostalgia and culture abound. Take a peek at some of the things you can do here.

Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum

Before there were towns, or roads or railroads, there was the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse.  This red and black lighthouse has been lighting the way along Florida’s East Coast since July 10, 1860.  Built on a natural sand hill, the lighthouse itself is 108 feet tall and can be seen 24 miles out at sea.  In 1973 the lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, then in 1974, it was opened to public tours by the Loxahatchee River Historical Society.  Before you even get inside, there are 34 steps you have to climb just to get to the base of the lighthouse.  Those are the easy ones.  Once inside, there are 105 steep iron stairs. Once at the top, the views are breathtaking!  You can see some of them in our original post.  

Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction

What started as a fruit stand more than 55 years ago, has evolved into a classic Florida roadside attraction that still draws visitors today.  Located on the top of a hill in Brooksville, Boyette’s Grove and Citrus Attraction not only offers delicious citrus fruit, but also a nostalgic look at Florida oddities, along with a walk on the wild side. You have to see it to believe it!

Trapper Nelson’s Zoo and Jungle Garden

Three miles down the Loxahatchee River, where it meanders through the Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound, is Trapper Nelson’s Zoo and Jungle Garden, or what is left of it.  Trapper Nelson (aka Vincent Natulkiewicz), known as the “Wildman of the Loxahatchee,” turned his property along the river into a wildlife zoo in the mid-1940s, and for the next 15 years or so, visitors from around the world visited to see him wrestle alligators and wrap himself up in snakes.

Check out our post about Trapper Nelson, then make plans to take the tour for yourself and spend the day at the Jonathan Dickinson State Park.  Note, the site is accessible only by canoe, boat or by tour boat.

FM Notes

We hope you have enjoyed our travels as much as we have.  We wish you a happy and healthy 2019 and hope it is filled with fun Florida travels!

Trapper Nelson’s Zoo and Jungle Gardens

If you’ve been following along with our adventures, you know that many of them take us off the beaten path. Well, recently that changed. Instead of a path, it was a river. The destination?  An old tourist attraction even Tarzan would appreciate.

Trapper Nelson Interpretive Site

Three miles down the Loxahatchee River, where it meanders through the Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound, is Trapper Nelson’s Zoo and Jungle Garden, or what is left of it. The site is accessible only by canoe, boat or by tour boat.  On the day of our visit, we chose the tour boat, the Loxahatchee Queen III, piloted that day by Captain Dan.  The slow excursion offered views of tropical vegetation and wildlife – manatees lazily gliding through the water, an eagle soaring above, an osprey perched in a dead tree and an alligator hiding along the shore line.    

Osprey
Alligator 

Damsel Fly hitchhiking on the Loxahatchee Queen III

As our tour boat turned around near Trapper’s camp, we were dropped off near the original boat dock built by Nelson. Stepping off the boat, a park staff member greeted us and took us on a walking tour of Nelson’s camp. The hand-built Chickee hut, a water tower and Trapper’s cabin still stand. Inside the cabin, a museum of sorts is set up to portray Trapper’s life and his eccentricities. Photos of his early life on the river, his military career, and other memorabilia are on display for present-day visitors to see. A framed photo of coins found by park rangers during restoration supports the tales that Trapper was known for hiding money around his property. In 1984, more than 5,000 coins worth about $1,800 were discovered when mortar was pulled away near his fireplace.

Original boat dock built by Trapper Nelson
Huts
Water Tower 
One of two cabins on site
Memorabilia on display inside the cabin
Faded photo of coins found during camp restoration

Woodpiles still stand, a testament to the amount of wood Trapper would chop for himself.  A guest cabin that once welcomed visitors to the camp, is relatively bare, stripped clean by vandals following Nelson’s death. Many of the cages Nelson built to house the animals are still on the property.  Signs on the cages indicate what was once there – alligators, wildcats, and raccoons.

Wood pile 
The zoo 
Nelson’s Jeep on display

History of Trapper Nelson’s Zoo and Jungle Garden 

Trapper Nelson (aka Vincent Natulkiewicz) made his way to the area from New Jersey, accompanied by his brother Charlie and a friend, first heading west to Colorado by way of boxcars, and then to Mexico. It was there where Trapper was detained by Mexican officials on suspicion of gun-running.  His brother and friend were not captured.  Several weeks later, and with no real evidence against him, Nelson was released.  His next venture west to California proved to be unsuccessful and after a few weeks, he decided to return to New Jersey to meet up with his brother and friend.  It didn’t take long for the trio to decide to head south, eventually ending up in Jupiter.

Upon his arrival in 1931, he settled into a temporary hunting camp near the Jupiter Inlet, where he lived off the land, trapping animals and selling their hides. However, development meant less game, so in 1933 Nelson traveled up the Loxahatchee in a rowboat and set up his homestead where it is today.  Nelson continued to live off the land and would row nine miles to Jupiter to pick up his mail, buy supplies and sell his wares.  Although Nelson was considered a loner, as people learned of his camp, he became known as the “Wildman of the Loxahatchee.” It is said he could be seen jumping from a rope swing into the river.

Trapper Nelson with one of his alligators. 
Photo courtesy of Jonathan Dickinson State Park

In the mid-1940s, Nelson turned his property into a wildlife zoo.  For the next 15 years or so, visitors from around the world came to see him wrestle alligators and wrap himself up in snakes. Folks who visited the site could stay in one of his cabins, buy souvenirs or rent rowboats, and of course, get a close up look at the many animals he had trapped.  Nelson used a lot of his profits buying up land at tax sales.  In all, he purchased nearly 1,000 acres along the river. 

Trapper chose to close his attraction to tourists in the early 1960s, citing his distrust of people, and ongoing rules and regulations by the state to keep it open.  A sign still hangs on one of the trees over the river warning people to keep out.  It is rumored that he would take shots at people who ventured too close.

The words are no longer visible, but what appear to be bullet holes remain

Little was heard from Trapper Nelson from the time he closed his zoo until he was found shot to death in 1968, his shotgun beside him.  Authorities ruled his death a suicide, although there are still some folks who believe he was a victim of foul play.

During his life, Nelson was actively engaged in efforts to preserve the Loxahatchee River and protect his land. After his death, his estate was sold to a developer, but a land swap with the Florida Park Service made it part of Jonathan Dickinson State Park, where it has been preserved and protected.

Hours 

Trapper’s is open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 7 days a week,although the schedule may vary throughout the year.  If you are going specifically for the tour,call at 561-746-1466 or visit their website.  In addition to the cost of park admission, the ride on the Loxahatchee Queen III is $24 for adults, $14 for children 3 – 12, and free for children under 3.

FM Notes:  While researching for this article, I came across the book “Life and Death on the Loxahatchee: The Story of Trapper Nelson” by James D. Snyder.  The book includes interviews with Nelson’s surviving family members, along with photos from Nelson’s scrapbook found at the bottom of a file cabinet in the Park Service, and transcribed letters from Trapper Nelson to his family from 1951-1968. The latest printing was 2007 and is a must-read for those interested in Trapper Nelson’s story.

Nelson planted a variety of tropical fruit and vegetation 
Bamboo 

 

Sweetwater Wetlands Park

Traveling the state, visiting “old Florida,” provides many opportunities to experience life the way it used to be.  But there are times when those travels drop you off in the midst of some of the state’s most picturesque locations, yet close enough to the real world.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

One such location is Sweetwater Wetlands Park in Gainesville.  Sweetwater Wetlands is a man-made habitat located on the north end of Paynes Prairie.  The park, which is said to be shaped like an alligator head, was created to improve the water quality in the Alachua Sink and the Floridan Aquifer.  With more than three and a half miles of easy trails on 125 acres, Sweetwater Wetlands offers amazing views of plants, animals, and more than 215 species of birds.

Our most recent visit gave us a closeup look at some of the wild horses that live in Payne’s Prairie.  Six of them grazed just off the main trail, and at times, on the trail.  Of all the wildlife seen this day, it was easy to circle back and watch these beautiful animals.

Wild Horses at Sweetwater Wetlands Park | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Viewing platforms, trails and boardwalks provide a look at life in the wetlands and the ponds, from alligators lurking in the hydrilla to great white herons keeping a watchful eye for an afternoon snack.

Boardwalk at Sweetwater Wetlands Park | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Gator lurking at Sweetwater Wetlands Park | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

A lot of wildlife to see at Sweetwater Wetlands | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Although we did not see any, there are also bison that roam the Prairie and the park.  To learn more about the history of Paynes Prairie and Sweetwater Wetlands visit the website. Oh, and don’t forget to leave a note for others about what you saw during your visit.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park Location and Rules

Sweetwater Wetlands Park is located at 325 SW Williston Road in Gainesville. If you are traveling on Interstate 75, use Exit 382 and drive about three miles east.  The entrance will be on your right.  A few rules before you get there:

  • No pets
  • No horseback riding, biking, camping or cars
  • No fishing
  • No drones

There is a $5.00 fee per vehicle, or $2.00 per person for bicyclists, pedestrians or buses.

Park Activities

Activities at the park include guided tours, birding walks, and sunrise wildlife walks.  Check the calendar on the website for dates and times of the events.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park Hours

The park is open seven days a week, even on holidays, from 7:00 a.m. until sunset. If you visit during the summer, make sure to take a bottle of water with you, although there is water at one of the viewing platforms.

Mom and baby gators | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Here are a few more of our photographs from our visits to the park.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Florida Eats: Andy’s Drive-In Restaurant

Just like visiting some of Florida’s quaint old towns requires that you get away from the interstates and major highways, so too does finding places to experience some of the state’s best food in an old Florida atmosphere.  In the center of the state, about 12 miles south of Interstate 4 in Polk County is one of those places – Andy’s Drive-In Restaurant and Igloo in Winter Haven.  This landmark diner is on the menu in this installment of Florida Eats.

Andy’s Drive-In Restaurant and Igloo

Andy’s has been serving up meals for nearly 70 years.  Roger “Andy” Anderson opened the restaurant as a Dairy Queen in 1951, when it was surrounded by orange groves.  As the city grew, the landscape changed, and Andy’s now occupies a corner at the busy intersection of Avenue G Southwest and 3rd Street Southwest.  It was, and still is, a favorite gathering place for folks living in Winter Haven and the surrounding communities.

The day of our visit, the restaurant filled up quickly.  On the way to their tables, guests stopped at other booths to say hello to their neighbors.  That friendly attitude extended beyond the diners, as the servers were just as friendly. From the time we sat down, until the time we were handed our check, service was prompt, polite and precise.

Ambience

From the iconic sign in the parking lot to the retro interior, Andy’s serves up a comfortable, home-like atmosphere.  Booths with turquoise seat cushions and Formica table tops wrap around the main dining area. Tables and chairs fill the center of the room.  Near the kitchen area, stools line a lunch counter and provide additional seating. Everywhere you look, painted signs on the walls carry out the retro theme – from breakfast to burgers.  And on the wall by the register, autographed photos of some of those who have dined at Andy’s.

On the Menu

The menu says it all.  “Hungry? You’re in the Right Place!”  Even though there’s a chunk taken out of the upper right-hand corner, don’t worry, the menu offerings are much tastier.  Andy’s describes its menu as “American standard fare featuring burgers, seafood, steaks & ice cream in a simple setting.”  Although there is a wide variety on the menu, the cheeseburger basket is to die for – a juicy burger served with crinkle cut fries and slaw.  Of course, don’t forget to top off your meal with one of their delicious award-winning milkshakes.  If you’re just stopping by for a cold ice cream or milkshake, Andy’s Igloo offers a walk-up counter.  And the prices?  Very reasonable.

If you are anywhere near Winter Haven, Andy’s is definitely worth the drive! Great food.  Great prices.  Great service.  What more can you ask for?

Location and Hours

Andy’s Drive-In Restaurant & Igloo

703 3rd St SW Winter Haven, Florida 33880

863-293-0019

Andy’s Drive-In Restaurant

Sunday                 Noon–11PM

Monday               8AM–11PM

Tuesday               8AM–11PM

Wednesday         8AM–11PM

Thursday             8AM–11PM

Friday                  8AM–11PM

Saturday              8AM–11PM

Andy’s Igloo

Sunday                 2PM–11PM

Monday               9AM–11PM

Tuesday               9AM–11PM

Wednesday        9AM–11PM

Thursday             9AM–11PM

Friday                   9AM–11PM

Saturday              9AM–11PM

Floridiana Magazine (FM) Notes

Make sure you take along cash with you when you go.  Andy’s does not accept credit cards.  If you forget, there is an ATM inside.

Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum

Before there were towns, or roads or railroads in Palm Beach County, there was the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse.  This red and black lighthouse has been lighting the way along Florida’s East Coast since July 10, 1860.  Built on a natural sand hill, the lighthouse itself is 108 feet tall and can be seen 24 miles out at sea. Just think about it, for more than 150 years ships have used the lighthouse’s beacon to guide them safely around the Gulf Stream and away from reefs and shoals.

History of Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse

Because of its location at the junction of the Indian River and Jupiter Inlet, in 1849 army surveyors recommended the Jupiter Inlet as a strategic and appropriate place for military defenses. After President Franklin Pierce signed an order to set aside the 61 ½ acres for a lighthouse, Lieutenant George Meade designed the structure, and Lieutenant William Raynolds improved the strength with the design of a double wall.  The lighthouse is comprised of a tower and an iron top, or lantern.  The first-order Fresnel (fray-nel) lens in operation is said to be the oldest existing first-order Fresnel lens in Florida and is one of only 13 active in the United States.

In 1973 the lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, then in 1974, it was opened to public tours by the Loxahatchee River Historical Society.

Climbing the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse

Before you even get inside, there are 34 steps you have to climb just to get to the base of the lighthouse. Those are the easy ones.  Once inside, there are 105 steep iron stairs – 100 of them date back to 1860, five were replaced in 2000.

As you work your way to the top, there are three landings that not only provide a chance to catch your breath, but also a look out in different directions.  Those views themselves are amazing, but the views from the top are out of this world.  Walk around the top and see the Atlantic Ocean, the Indian River, Jupiter Inlet and the Loxahatchee River.  On a clear day, you can see for miles.

Other Things to See at the Lighthouse

While the lighthouse is the centerpiece of the property, there are other things to see during your visit.

Keepers’ Workshop and Exhibit

Just off the deck by the lighthouse you will find the Keepers’ Workshop and Exhibit “Keeping the Light at Jupiter Inlet.” Once inside, pick up an adventure map that will take you back in time for a look at the early years of the lighthouse.  Each of the eight “stations” depicted on the map provides information about the lighthouse.  Find out why Jupiter has a lighthouse, a timeline of the lighthouse, how the lighthouse works, or stories of some of the keepers.

Prior to becoming a workshop and exhibit, the building served as a pump house and paint storage locker.  It was built in 1929, but then rebuilt and expanded in 1929 after a major hurricane.

Banyan Tree and Deck

As you walk up the pathway to the lighthouse, the limbs of a large banyan tree reach out in every direction, offering shade to a wooden deck built over the foundation of the original keepers’ house.  Even though it may look like there are several trees, there is only one! The hair-like roots on this 85-year-old tree reach back to the ground, take hold and form new tree trunks.

Tindall House

The house was built in 1892 by George Tindall and is believed to be one of the oldest houses in Palm Beach County.  Originally, the house was located along the Loxahatchee River several miles west of its current location.  It was moved in 1997 to Burt Reynolds Park, then again in 2007 to its final home in Lighthouse Park.  The main portion of the house features four rooms: living room, parlor, bedroom and workroom.  True to style for cracker houses, the Tindall house is elevated off the ground, has high ceilings, and large windows.  Off the back of the house is a replica of the kitchen and dining area, separated from the main part of the house to cut back on heat and potential fires to the remainder of the house.  The interior is furnished with photos of the family, as well as donated items from the 1900s.

Pennock Plantation Bell

Protected from the elements under a wooden roof, the Pennock Plantation Bell has a history of its own.  The bell was used to signal lunch break or the end of a work day at the Pennock Plantation.  It would ring once on those occasions, then continuously when the volunteer fire department was needed. The Pennocks are some of the early pioneers of Jupiter, arriving in 1902 and starting a fern business, as well as a dairy farm. During the first half of the 20th century, the Pennock Plantation was the largest employer in Jupiter.

Plants

As you walk along the brick path, make sure to stop and take a look at the many plants along the way.  Some of them are native to Florida, while others are not.  Wild coffee, muhly grass, dune sunflowers, and beauty berries are all native.  Although agave is found mostly in Mexico and the American Southwest, the dry, sandy soil of Florida is also conducive to its growth. Agave has been growing at the Jupiter Lighthouse for more than 100 years.

Museum and Gift Shop

Before you leave, make sure to check out the museum and gift shop.  The museum, housed inside the 1940 WII Naval Housing Building, offers the exhibit “5,000 Years on the Loxahatchee.”  Eight galleries provide additional information on the lighthouse, maritime history and notable individuals from the area.

 

Self-guided Tour App

If you opt to explore the grounds without a tour guide, there is an App you can download that ensures you don’t miss anything!  Starting from the welcome gate, you are guided on a journey through the history of early Native Americans and the Seminole Indians in the area.  Interpretive readings from period journals provide personal recollections of the life and times of early settlers.

The App provides information on some of the best areas for taking photos, as well as points of interest along the brick path.

 

Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum Hours

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum is located at 500 Captain Armour’s Way in Jupiter and is open 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  The last lighthouse grounds admission is at 4:00 p.m. Guided docent tours are held at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.  Note that the lighthouse is open Tuesday – Sunday, May through December and seven days a week from January to April.

There is a $12 admission fee for adults, $6 for children 6 – 18, and no charge for children five and under.  Special rates are available for U.S. Veterans and senior 60 and over. Children must be 48” to climb.

 

 

 

 

What to Do in Lake Wales, Florida

Known as the Crown Jewel of the Ridge, Lake Wales sits in the center of the state, just off Highway 27 and State Road 60. With its historic roots, its quirky qualities, and its persona of a small city with a hometown atmosphere, Lake Wales is a true Floridiana find.  Whether you are taking a trip into downtown, visiting the tower on the hill, or participating in any number of festivals and celebrations, nostalgia and culture abound.

Lake Wales History

Lake Wales was first settled in 1911 by a group of businessmen known as the Lake Wales Land Company.  These individuals purchased 5,000 acres around Lake Wailes, named after land agent Sidney Wailes. The Lake Wales Land Company saw the property as ripe for a turpentine and lumber industry, as well as growing citrus crops.

Lake Wailes

By the time Lake Wales was incorporated in 1917, it was already on its way to becoming a thriving town, with a school, some paved roads, and a newspaper.

Part of the charm of Lake Wales is its downtown area which is recognized as a National Historic District.  A walk around town reveals evidence of the old charm. Informational signs are strategically located to provide information about the area and the numerous buildings restored to the splendor of the 1920s and 30s.

City of Murals

Another way to enjoy the history of Lake Wales is through the 21 murals scattered throughout downtown.  The earliest mural was painted in 1942 and hangs inside the lobby of the Post Office on West Park Avenue.  Harvest Time Lake Wales measures 14 feet by 5 feet and depicts the area’s citrus industry.  A second indoor mural is at the Lake Wales Public Library and portrays animals that are native to the area in their natural environment.  The library mural was painted by Tom Freeman, who also painted many of the other murals around town.  Freeman, a former teacher, is also the subject of a mural funded and painted by his students.

Tom Freeman Recognition Mural

Another local artist, Lisa Moore, has not only painted some of the murals, but was also commissioned to do restoration work on some of the older murals around town.  On one of our visits, we found Lisa working on the Downtown City Mural on East Stuart Avenue.

The Lake Wales murals are part of a statewide trail that connects mural towns with mural enthusiasts. A map of the murals’ locations, as well as descriptions about them can be found at the Lake Wales Mural website.

Lake Wales Museum

Like other old train depots around Florida, the Atlantic Coast Line Depot has been transformed into the Lake Wales Museum.  The museum offers a look back at the history of Lake Wales.  Starting with its inception in 1911, exhibits depict the people, places and events that have shaped the town. Take a step back in time and learn about the history of the railroad, the turpentine industry and the postal service. There are also special exhibits that are set up throughout the year.  Before you leave the museum, make sure to head outside and tour a refurbished Seaboard caboose.

Other Things to See and Do in Lake Wales

Bok Tower and Gardens

You can’t visit Lake Wales without making a trip to Bok Tower and Gardens, located atop Iron Mountain.  Founded by Edward W. Bok, the gardens opened to the public in 1929 and now features nearly 50 acres of lush gardens filled with palms, ferns, oaks and other trees. Seasonal plants also provide splashes of color to the grounds.

The centerpiece to the gardens is the 205-foot Bok Tower.  Known as the Singing Tower, it houses one of the finest carillons anywhere in the world. With 60 bells, the tower rings out with concerts every day at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Also, on property is the Pinewood Estate, a 20-room mansion built in the early 1930s. The estate is open for tours, but make sure to check the website for blackout dates before you plan your trip.

Spook Hill

Do cars really roll uphill?  That’s for you to decide when you visit Spook Hill in Lake Wales.

If you want to know more about Spook Hill, click here.  Or even better, drive to Spook Hill, park your car on the white line, put it into neutral, and see what happens!

How to find it: From U.S. 27, take State Road 60 west to Alternate U.S. 27, north past Central Avenue, then east at first traffic light (North Avenue). Then turn left on one-way street to Spook Hill.

Struthers’ Honey

Struthers’ Honey is one of those places you have to visit.  Situated about 15 minutes east of Highway 27 along Highway 60, this honey store operates on the honor system.  That’s right.  There is usually no one inside to take your money.  Only shelves full of honey and honey-based products, and a cash box.  If you are lucky, you will be there when one of the family members stops by to replenish the shelves.  Struthers’ Honey opened for business in 1935 and may be the oldest honey store in Florida working off the honor system.

Orange Blossom Revue

Towns across Florida are known for their festivals and events.  In Lake Wales, the Orange Blossom Revue is one of those.  The event got its name from the impact of the citrus industry in Central Florida.  Held in early December every year, the Revue hosts barbeque competitions, regional musicians, arts and crafts, and craft beer featuring Florida breweries.  The weekend is full of fun activities for everyone, not just the locals.

Lake Wales Mardi Gras

Who would think a Mardi Gras celebration would be held in a small city like Lake Wales?  In 1984, the celebration began in Lake Wales in memory of Vinton Davis who owned Vinton’s New Orleans Restaurant.  Davis is said to have loved carnivals, especially Mardi Gras in New Orleans.  The Lake Wales Mardi Gras celebration is usually held the first weekend of March.  What’s billed as “A Festival for Florida” features live music, a parade, a 5k run and plenty of fun for the entire family.

There doesn’t have to be an event to visit Lake Wales.  This small city with a hometown atmosphere offers many opportunities to learn about its history, get a taste of some of its culture, or enjoy its natural beauty.

Lake Wales is located about 54 miles southwest of Orlando off U.S. 27 and Highway 60.  Please watch our slide show for more pictures from our trips to Lake Wales.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.