Floridiana Magazine

History. Heritage. Home.

Pioneer Park, Zolfo Springs

Growing up in the country gives you a chance to experience “old Florida” every day.  Backroads replace highways.  Rivers and lakes replace the “concrete pond” and parks become the playground of choice.

One such park sits at the intersection of U.S. Highway 17 and State Road 64 in Zolfo Springs in Hardee County – Pioneer Park.  Encompassing more than 115 acres, Pioneer Park offers a little something for everyone – from nature lovers to history buffs.

Peace River through Pioneer Park

The picturesque Peace River meanders 107 miles from just northeast of Bartow at the juncture of Saddle Creek and Peace Creek and to Charlotte Harbor in Port Charlotte.  Along the way it cuts through Hardee County and Pioneer Park, offering opportunities for lazy days of kayaking or canoeing.  Peace River is also a favorite hotspot for fossil hunters – both experienced and novice.

Kayaking on Peace River

Campers can pitch their tents or park their RVs and wake up to beautiful views, not just of the river but also other wildlife. There are two lakes in the park – Rock Lake and Pioneer Lake.  Rock Lake sits just off the river and serves as a favorite fishing spot, not to mention a hangout for a gator or two.

Camping along Rock Lake at Pioneer Park | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Rock Lake residents

Pioneer Lake is near the entertainment area at the park and besides also being a fishing hole, it is home to wildlife whether they are in plain view or hidden along the shore.

Pioneer Lake

Pioneer Lake

Hardee County Wildlife Refuge at Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park is also home to a wildlife refuge.  Located on Animal Way, visitors can walk along the boardwalk and get a glimpse of native wild animals in a natural habitat. Although it has been closed due to damage from Hurricane Irma in September 2017, all but the bear exhibit is now open.

Old Pool House at Pioneer Park

An old pool house once served as the hub of activity at the park, offering up snacks and drinks for those who spent their weekends swimming or just hanging out at the pool.  Built in the 1930s, the pool was part of the WPA (Works Progress Administration) under President Franklin D. Roosevelt and provided decades of fun to the area. It’s safe to say that many children who grew up in Hardee County learned to swim at the pool (myself included). Unfortunately, it was forced to close in the 1970s because of large cracks in the concrete.  The building now serves as a venue for birthdays and other events.  There is little evidence there was ever a pool here.

The site of the old pool

Cracker Trail Museum

For history buffs, the Cracker Trail Museum provides a look at pioneer life in Hardee County through more than 4,000 items, including photographs, farm implements, and household objects.  A separate area showcases a collection of old fossils and bones found along the Peace River. Many artifacts have been donated by local residents.

Pioneer Park Museum | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Pioneer Village

Step outside and into the Pioneer Village, an offshoot of the museum. The village began to take shape after the donation of a cane grinding shed and kettle, just one of several donations from residents of the county.

Another addition to the village was a 1914 wood burning Baldwin Locomotive Engine #3 (also known as the Loping Gopher).  It was donated in 1967 by K.D. Revell, who used it as his crate mill in Wauchula.  Recently repainted, this majestic engine can be seen from Highway 17 and State Road 64.

Train on display at Pioneer Park | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The C.A. Bryant Blacksmith Shop was moved to the park and reconstructed next to the museum itself.  Clarence Alvin Bryant operated the shop in Bowling Green from 1897 until his death in 1953. The blacksmith shop houses many of the original tools and implements used by the Bryant family.

C.A. Bryant Blacksmith Shop

Old farm implement

One of the hallmarks to the Pioneer Village is the Hart Cabin.  Built in 1879 by William Henry and Mary Jane Hart, the cabin was originally located in the Lemon Grove section of Hardee County.  It is one section of the original house where the Harts raised seven children. The cabin was donated to the park in 1979 by Hart’s great-grandson Wendell Smith. Enclosed cases outside of the cabin provide snapshots of the Hart’s pioneer life.  Visitors to Pioneer Village can also take a look at an old outhouse that sits behind the Hart Cabin, as well as an old shed and the Cracker Trail Post Office.

Hart Cabin | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Outhouse | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Post Office at Pioneer Park | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Pioneer Park Days (Pioneer Festival)

**Note: Pioneer Park Days (Pioneer Festival) has been discontinued.

The biggest event of the year at the park is held the first weekend of March. Pioneer  Pioneer Park Days started as a show for antique tractors and gasoline engines with about 50 people in attendance and soon grew into one of the largest events in the area.  Over the years, not only did the show include tractors and engines, but also antique cars, a flea market, Civil War Re-enactment, and a visit by the Budweiser Clydesdales. Park Days underwent a name change In 2023 to Pioneer Festival.

Newspaper Insert 1990 – Herald Advocate A bandshell was built to provide a larger area for entertainment and a postal station added to the event to provide a special philatelic cancellation stamp for anything mailed out of the park.

Entertainment Bandshell

FM Note:  For more than 50 years, Pioneer Park Days (Pioneer Festival)  provided a fun weekend for Hardee County residents and has attracted thousands of visitors from all over the country.  (I grew up attending Pioneer Park Days with my Dad as coordinator from 1978 – 1992).

George Collins, Coordinator of Pioneer Park Days 1978 – 1992 (My Dad!)

Nostalgia aside, Pioneer Park introduces visitors to the Park’s beauty and everything it has to offer.

Richloam General Store

Sometimes you are lucky to stumble upon a Florida gem simply by venturing away from the highways and taking the backroads.  But other times, it takes a small nugget of knowledge to direct you to a slice of Florida history you otherwise would not have seen.

Such is the case with the Richloam General Store, tucked away in the Withlacoochee State Forest in Hernando County. I heard about this little treasure through a friend on social media who said it was a place I needed to visit.

Where is the Richloam General Store?

The store sits south of State Road 50 on Richloam Clay Sink Road, about three miles east of U.S. 301. A small sign on this narrow winding road indicates you are approaching the Historic Richloam General Store.

Who would have known that a short distance from a main east-west highway through Florida sits a store that pays homage to the community’s past?  The front of the store is quaint and inviting.  Rocking chairs on the porch seem to beckon you to sit a while, listen to the sounds of the forest, and enjoy life the way it used to be.

It sounds a little cliché but stepping inside is like taking a step back in time.  From the moment you walk through the screen doors, you feel as though you are being transported back to the 1920s and 30s.

“Welcome to Richloam General Store.  Is this your first time here?”

Daisy Brinson, mother of property owner Eric Burkes, stands behind the original cash register and greets each customer as though they are family.  She is quick to offer up a brief history of the store – and more if you ask questions.  Daisy is proud of this little store and its history, not only to Richloam but also to her family.

Daisy Brinson

Richloam General Store’s History

The store was built in 1920 by Sid Brinson to serve as the general store and post office for the Richloam community.  A train depot, ice house, barn, and turpentine still also sat on the property.  In January 1928, the original store burned to the ground, amid speculation the fire was intentionally set to cover up a robbery, which would have been a federal crime because the store housed the post office.

In about a month’s time, the store was rebuilt – this time out of metal – and remained open until 1936.

After serving as a family residence until the mid-1950s, the store sat vacant for nearly 20 years, until John Brinson (Daisy’s husband) purchased the property from his uncle Sid’s estate in 1973.

Daisy reminisces about life on the property, recounting how her sons were raised here.  One of her fondest memories, she admits, is of the boys using the vacant store as their clubhouse.

Open for Business

Fast forward to 2016 when Daisy and John’s son Eric decides to renovate the store, using as much of the original building material as possible.  It is returned it to the way it was more than 80 years ago and reopened as a general store.

The original post office boxes sit just inside the door.  A hand painted sign hangs from the ceiling and copies of “Wanted” posters are taped to the exterior.  The letter slot is just below the postmaster’s window.

Sid Brinson’s name can be seen on some of the original sheets of metal used to rebuild the store in the late 20s. Each pallet that arrived had his name stamped on the top sheets of the bundle.

Other evidence of the original character of the building and the property can be seen elsewhere within the store.  Bricks from the old turpentine still now serve as the fireplace.

And Daisy is happy to point out the 1918 Singer Treadle Sewing Machine she still uses to make aprons, sock monkeys and Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls.

Of course, you can’t visit a general store without looking at the many items on the shelves themselves. The Richloam General Store stays true to the time period and offers goods you would have seen in the 20s and 30s, items you won’t necessarily see in today’s grocery stores.

Jams and jellies, sauces, local honey, salt-cured meat, and jars of candy all offer up a taste of life in simpler times.

Richloam General Store, the oldest historical building still standing in the Richloam area, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2017.  The folks who stop by are the locals, hunters during hunting season, and the curious.  Fundraising efforts are now underway to restore or rebuild the other buildings on the property to provide more opportunities for visitors to learn about early life in the Richloam community.

Florida’s backroads don’t get any better than this.

 

Note: The Richloam General Store is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Florida Eats: Farmer’s Market Restaurant, Webster, FL (CLOSED)

“Florida home cooking” conjures up an image of a Sunday afternoon meal.  Fried chicken or meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, creamy macaroni and cheese.  Add to that a variety of vegetables and greens, cornbread or biscuit and a tall glass of sweet tea. Then top it all off with a homemade dessert.

Brings back memories, doesn’t it?

Where can you find such a feast without having to don an apron and dust off the cookbook?  The Farmer’s Market Restaurant in Webster, Florida of course.

Farmer’s Market Restaurant Webster, Florida

The Ambiance

The restaurant sits in the middle of the Webster Farmer’s Market on Highway 471 and is open seven days a week.  Wooden rockers on the front porch reach out and welcome you to the restaurant.  Diners use it as a gathering place – whether they are waiting for someone to join them or relaxing after their home cooked meal.

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.

A second dining room has been added since our first visit a year ago. One of the waitresses says the room was needed to accommodate the large number of diners, especially on Mondays when thousands of people converge on the Webster Flea Market.

Second Dining Area

Home Cooking

After seating yourself, the waitstaff is quick to take your drink order and direct you to the buffet or offer a menu. 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!

Small town restaurants serve up more than just food – they offer hospitality with a touch of home. The Farmer’s Market Restaurant 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.

Hours of Operation

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.

How to Get There

If you’re ever in the area, stop by for a bite to eat or make a special trip.  If you’re traveling on Interstate 75, get off at exit 309 (County Road 673) and drive west about 10 minutes.

Whatever your reason for visiting, you can count on home cooking the way your mother used to make it.

Punta Gorda: Murals and More in This Small Florida Town

Punta Gorda – It’s Happening on the Harbor – a motto that doesn’t disappoint.  Having grown up only an hour away I was surprised at all this city offered.  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.

A Brief History of Punta Gorda

The name Punta Gorda was given to the area by Spanish fishermen from Cuba in the early 1800s. It changed to Trabue after Col. Isaac Trabue, from Kentucky, bought the land sight unseen in the early 1880s and had it platted as Trabue.

The name did not stick, however, and in 1887, a group of individuals, including the original surveyor, signed a notice of intent to incorporate Trabue into Punta Gorda.  Although the town changed names, the impact Trabue had on its development did not.  Trabue is credited with bringing the Florida Southern Railroad to town and to stimulating early growth.

The Murals of Punta Gorda

There is much to be read about the history of Punta Gorda, but there is another fun way to learn about this city – through its murals.  The Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society was created in 1994 and is a part of the Florida Mural Trail.  Currently, there are 29 murals already completed, with the 30th in the works.  Print out a guide or pick one up at the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and enjoy a day enjoying history through art.

The first stop on the trail, End of the Line, located on the Copperfish Books building, plays homage to town founder Isaac Trabue and railroad pioneer Henry Plant.  Both men can be seen on one of two murals at this location, along with products that were once shipped from the area.  A second mural on the south side of the building features steam locomotive Number 11 as it is pulling into town.

Watch the short clip of the mural here. 

From the city’s founding to Punta Gorda’s first fire station, each of the murals has its own story to tell. A tour of the murals reveals the history of banking, life along the Harbor, the natural beauty of the area, as well as individuals who have left lasting impressions on this city.

Fishing Tales
First City Council
Building a Community
Harbor Life, Then and Now
Classics of the Past
Cattle Drive Down Marion Avenue
Local Black History
Conquistadors
The Churches of Sacred Heart
Hotel Punta Gorda and Hotel Charlotte Harbor
Our First Firehouse

Walk or bike, the murals are a sight to behold and linking to the past is easy through the interactive tour.  Make sure to have a QR code reader on your smartphone to scan the bar codes found next to the plaques for each of the murals. When scanned, you are taken to the Mural Society’s website for an instant description of what you are seeing.

Mural Society Tours and Classes

Although we were able to walk or drive to most of the murals, the Mural Society offers private tours for small groups of 10 – 20 participants.  They also offer “History of Punta Gorda in its Murals” classes where you can learn about the city’s history through a look at each of the murals, without even leaving your seat.  The classes last about two and a half hours and are taught throughout the year, but registration is required.  Call (941) 505-0130 for more information on the upcoming classes and to reserve your seat.

Other Things to See and Do in Punta Gorda

Besides the murals, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Punta Gorda. A walk along the waterfront is definitely a must.  It is part of the city’s Harborwalk, a stretch of a about two and a half  miles along Charlotte Harbor that takes you through Laishley Park and Gilchrist Park.

At Laishley Park you get a spectacular view of the Harbor bridges, not to mention a chance to indulge in ice cream at Harborwalk Scoops & Bites – which bills itself as “Ice Cream with a View.”

Another place to visit is Fisherman’s Village, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Stop in one of the shops at the village, have a bite to eat or quench your thirst at one of the restaurants, take a stroll by the marina, or stop to have your picture taken at one of the ready-made photo backdrops.

Other sites of interest:

 “Calostimucu” the Whispering Giant – a carving by Peter “Wolf” Toth, depicting the first people to inhabit the area. Dedicated in 2006, this towering piece of art also contains a time capsule in its base. The carving is located next to the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and Punta Gorda Historical Society which are located in the A.C. Freeman House.

Historic Downtown: Walking through historic downtown, it is easy to come across historic plaques and markers about important people and places.  These signs provide more insight into the early history of Punta Gorda.

Punta Gorda Railroad Depot and Antique Mall: The railroad played an integral role in the history of Punta Gorda beginning in the late 1880s. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the depot was built in 1928 and was the southernmost train station at the time in the United States and was used mainly for shipping fish to markets to the north, even though it also carried passengers. After the depot closed, it was bought and donated to Old Punta Gorda, Inc., then restored and reopened as a museum and antique mall.  Although the building bears the original signs for the segregated waiting rooms, the museum has incorporated those into its exhibits showcasing early pioneers.

Punta Gorda has turned itself into a destination you don’t want to miss.  Its history has been preserved, and its present and future have been embraced.  Spend a day. Spend a weekend. For a city that bills itself as “Happening on the Harbor” Punta Gorda definitely delivers.

Related Stories:

Town of Murals: Lake Placid, Florida

 

Florida Eats: Cherry Pocket Steak & Seafood Shak

There are times when we are out and about that we run into some interesting places to eat.  Some are off the beaten track and known mostly by locals, where word of mouth draws in curious visitors.  Others are located on the main roads and hold some historic distinction. In this week’s Florida Eats, we made a stop at Cherry Pocket on the banks of Lake Pierce in Lake Wales.

From their décor to their newspaper-style menu, Cherry Pocket is one of those hidden gems.  The restaurant’s website touts the efforts by the current owners to keep it a unique “old Florida” place to visit.  The name Cherry Pocket, as legend tells it, comes from the two original property owners in the late 1940s, one of whom was named Cherry.  The “Pocket” part of the name was derived from the way the property sat on the canal (the owners thought it looked like a pocket).

The Ambiance

For folks who live in the area, Cherry Pocket is one of those laid-back kinds of restaurants they frequent regularly.  It’s a place for them to drop in for lunch or dinner or even just a drink.  The décor is comfortable and unassuming.  Dollar bills are attached to the walls along with license plates from around the country.  Fishing poles hang from the ceiling. Posted signs offer diners a suggestion or two – one in particular indicates the restaurant is a “No Whining Zone.”

If the weather is nice and you prefer to sit outside, there is an outdoor deck overlooking the canal.  In the center, a boat shaped bar.  Grab a stool and enjoy a drink.

The Menu

The restaurant bills itself as a “steak, seafood shak and oyster bar.”  From the appetizers to the entrees, the food is made from fresh ingredients and is cooked to order. The desserts are all homemade.

On our visit, we tried a few of the starters – the Cracker Platter and the Seafood Nachos.  Let’s just say the nachos were to die for!

A word of advice for newbies to the restaurant.  Don’t be in a hurry.  Since the food is made to order, it may take a little longer.  Just sit back, enjoy a drink, an appetizer and a friendly conversation.

Fish Camp

Cherry Pocket is not just a restaurant.  It is also a fishing “resort” offering rental cabins, RV hookups and boat slips.  Stay for a night, a week, or a month.  The cabins are fully furnished and include utilities and cable TV.  Make sure to call ahead to make reservations.

If you’ve never been to Cherry Pocket, just a reminder this restaurant truly is off the beaten path.  Rather than providing directions, it’s best for you to map it out from your location.  When you get there, make sure to ask for the Cherry Pocket Times.  Not only does it have the menu, but also a few “fish stories” you’ll want to read.

Cherry Pocket is located at:

3100 Canal Road
Lake Wales, FL 33898
863-439-2031

 

Places to See in Palatka

Once known as the “Gem of the St. Johns,” Palatka is located in northeast Florida, east of Gainesville and south of Jacksonville.  Even though I lived and worked in Gainesville for several years, I never experienced Palatka as a visitor.  But recently I had a chance to visit twice – and each time saw something different than before.  Palatka is full of history, culture and fun.

The name Palatka comes from the Timucuan Indian word Pilotakata which means “crossing.”  Palatka was once a prosperous town with world-class hotels and was known for its timber and citrus, as well as its natural beauty.  But in 1884 a fire in downtown destroyed many of the town’s fine hotels. Then in 1894 and 1895, freezes devastated the citrus industry.  What was once a booming town, saw a sharp decline in visitors and industry.

Palatka’s Historic District

Palatka is home to not one, but two historic districts, the North Historic District and the South Historic District.  The North District is composed of 350 acres and 76 buildings with boundaries including the St. Johns River, Bronson Street, North First, North Fifth and Main Street.  The South District is bounded by the St. Johns River, Oak, South 9th, and Morris Streets.

St. Marks Episcopal Church (circa 1846), Palatka

One of the more famous houses in the district is the Bronson-Mulholland House, built around 1853 for Isaac Bronson, who proposed the legislation for Florida to become a state. A long and storied history, plus the city’s intent to demolish it after purchasing the property in 1965, have brought the house full circle.  It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and is now open to the public for tours.

Ravine Gardens State Park

When you are done strolling down the brick streets of the historic districts, take a drive out to the Ravine Gardens State Park.  It is one of nine New Deal-era parks in Florida and is also included on the National Register of Historic Places.  It was created in 1933 by the Works Progress Administration and Federal Emergency Relief Administration in an effort to help Palatka recover from the Great Depression.

Today you can walk or drive along the nearly two-mile road around the park and get a glimpse of the two ravines. The ravines are up to 120 feet deep and have steep banks with springs that flow into the St. Johns River. Because the ravines are considered active, there is a chance of them getting wider and deeper.

There is more to the park than just the ravine. A formal garden, an amphitheater and reflecting pool also provide visitors with intriguing views.  The Court of States sits just inside the entrance and displays 48 of the 50 state flags – leaving out Alaska and Hawaii because they were not states when the Court was built.  An obelisk dedicated to President Franklin D. Roosevelt can also be viewed in the Court of States.

A few notes about the park:

  • The best time to see the flowers in bloom is from January to March, during the peak flowering period.
  • The main park drive is open to vehicles beginning at 8:00 in the morning and closes an hour before sunset.
  • There is a minimal entrance fee to the park. If the ranger station isn’t staffed, make sure to use the honor box to pay.
  • The park is open 365 days a year, including all holidays.

City of Murals

To learn even more about the history of Palatka, print out a map and tour the city’s murals.  Part of the Florida Mural Trail, the Conlee-Snyder Murals are larger than life renderings of the history, culture and natural riches of Palatka and Putnam County.  Mural efforts began in 1998 and now include more than 20 artistic representations, including the Battle at Horse Landing, Putnam County Wildflowers, Senator B.C. Pearce Agricultural Mural and Cattle Drive to Payne’s Prairie. The mural To God be the Glory depicts the story of Billy Graham, from his baptism in Putnam County to his first pulpit at the Peniel Baptist Church.

Battle at Horse Landing

Putnam County Wildflowers

Senator B.C. Pearce Agricultural Mural

Cattle Drive to Payne’s Prairie

To God be the Glory

There are also additional murals painted by local students and artists not sponsored by the Mural Committee.

Riverside

The St. Johns River has played a big role in Palatka’s history with steamboats plying areas south of Palatka.  In its heyday, Palatka was known as the gateway to the interior of Florida.  The river is still one of the most picturesque locations in Palatka today.  A clock tower stands tall at the edge of the riverside park.  Placards provide information about the river or the history of the Doughboys. It is worth a stop to walk out onto the docks and view the boats anchored offshore or watch the personal watercraft riding the river.

But from August through October, the docks take on a whole new look.  This part of the St. Johns River is a popular spot for shrimpers, all vying for that perfect spot to cast their nets.  Nets are rolled and prepped, then thrown with precision into the water, some nets creating perfect circles as they hit the surface.  They are then hauled back in to check for shrimp, then rolled and cast all over again.

Eateries and Places to Drink in Palatka

No trip is complete to a Florida town or city without looking for some of the area’s favorite foods.  Palatka lays claim to the state’s oldest diner – Angel’s.  Set up in an old train dining car, Angel’s has been serving its customers since 1932 – and it still offers curb service.

Angel’s is a favorite of regulars and visitors alike. Cooks are busy keeping up with the orders.  Menu highlights include the Puscalow – a chocolate frosty drink that tastes a lot like a Yoohoo, and the Black Bottom – scrambled eggs, bacon and ground beef on a bun.

Puscalow

Black Bottom

While you’re in Palatka, head on over to Uncork & Unwind on South 2nd Street for a drink and a little relaxation.  This modern establishment offers a wide variety of craft beer and wine. In fact, there are about four pages of drinks to choose from.  Not sure what to order? The owner/bartender is extremely knowledgeable and can recommend the perfect drink.  This hidden gem is a great place to end the day!

If you plan a trip to Palatka, plan for a whole day to see all the sights – from the historic districts to the riverfront to Ravine Gardens. Get out and learn a little more about another of Florida’s old towns.

#FloridaStrong: After Irma

Now that life is back to a “new normal” following Hurricane Irma, I can take a deep breath and reflect on weathering the storm.  To be honest, everything is still a blur, from the moment I picked up my mom and drove northwest to Tallahassee and then to Georgia, to the day we finally drove back across the Florida state line.  Hurricane Irma proved to be an unpredictable storm with spaghetti models having its track anywhere from the east coast of Florida, up the center of the state, or veering into the Gulf.

It was the storm that kept us glued to our televisions or weather radios or social media. We prayed for the storm to dissipate and texted family and friends.

Fear.  Anxiety. They held a tight grip on many Floridians as Irma pummeled her way across the Sunshine State.

Out of the Storm

When dawn broke, the damage was crushing, the flooding was unfathomable and the power outages overwhelming.  When all was said and done, 98% of the state experienced at least tropical storm force winds. The fear that had held us tight turned into shock after the storm.

Flooding from nearby Peace River, Hardee County

Debris littered our yards and our neighborhoods.  Rising waters from nearby rivers flooded our homes and caused road closures.  The absence of power left spoiled food in our refrigerators and grated on our nerves.  Schools were closed.  Store shelves were bare.

Hardee County

Hardee County

Hardee County

Orange County

Outside of our neighborhoods, many of the places I have visited for the blog were closed because of their own damage or debris.  Lakes and rivers that would be brimming with activity have been closed to boating or swimming because of possible dangers or bacteria.

Irma caused substantial damage and disruption, but she did not break our spirit.  Out of the devastation emerged proof of the real Florida: resilient and compassionate.  Neighbors helping neighbors.  Communities helping communities.  Other states pitching in to help.  Even offers of help from other countries.

Social media became a focal point of the good going in this great state.  It revealed communities adopting linemen from other states.  Washing their clothes.  Providing them with snacks and necessities while they are away from their own families.

Facebook post: helping linemen from Oklahoma

It showed statewide efforts of church groups providing clean up after the storm – from the Keys to the panhandle.

City Church Tallahassee cleaning up after the storm

The results of City Church Tallahassee cleanup efforts

Florida will take some time to fully recover from Irma.  Debris cleanup alone will take months to complete.  Power poles have to be replaced.  Repairs to roofs and other structures require insurance adjustments, estimates and permits and time to complete.

And while we have suffered frustration and hurricane fatigue, our resolve as a state will continue to shine.

We are Florida.

We are #FloridaStrong.

Homeland Heritage Park

As housing developments and retail spaces continue to pop up around the state, more and more of old Florida is disappearing under the guise of progress.  Fortunately, some communities are preserving parts of their past.

Just outside of Bartow, in the small community of Homeland, sits the only historical park in Polk County. Homeland Heritage Park is a five-acre park with original buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s.  Most of them were donated to the county and moved to the park for visitors to see for years to come.

Homeland School

The Homeland School (once known as Bethel Academy) is the oldest surviving school in the county (built in 1878) and sits in its original location.  Although the original building was only one room, a growing student population necessitated the addition of another room in 1888.

A peek inside the windows reveals a typical classroom of the time period – a teacher’s desk, old wooden chairs, long tables, a chalkboard and pianos.  It was in this room that students were taught lessons in reading, writing, arithmetic and manners.  More than 75 students once attended the Homeland School, until its closure in 1956.

In 1985, the school and property were donated to the Polk County Board of County Commissioners and in 2007 was placed on the National Register of Historic Buildings.

Homeland Methodist Church

During the 1800s, churches served as more than just places for religious services.  They were also the cornerstone of the community and served as the place for social gatherings. In the Homeland community, the Methodist Church was one of those places.


Originally known as Bethel Methodist Church, it dates back to 1878 and was said to be a simple wooden structure that did not have any lights or windows. That old building was replaced by the Homeland Methodist Church in 1887.

One of the features that stands out when looking at this church is the towering steeple.  The original steeple was destroyed by a hurricane in 1946, and was replaced by one made of aluminum.

Another striking feature is the stain glass windows, uncommon for a country church.  Looking through the windows, you can see their brilliant colors shining into the sanctuary.

The church was donated in 1986 and was moved from just off the park property to its current location.

Pole Barn

While the church was the heart of the community, the pole barn was the center of daily life. This outbuilding was the hub of work on the farm.  It was used to store farming equipment and served as shelter for farm animals.

A walk around the barn provides a glimpse into the strenuous daily work.  Farm equipment and an old carriage on display inside the barn are a far cry from the mechanized equipment used today.

Homeland Houses

Visitors to the Homeland Heritage Park can get a glimpse of two different styles of living in the late 1800s and early 1900s.  One of the homes on display is a single-pen log cabin, a single room cabin with a door and a few windows. It was built by Cornelius and James “Jackson” English in 1888 and used as a family residence until the early 1900s.

The wrap around porch was an important part of the cabin and was often the location where daily chores were done.  Sometimes families even slept outside on the porch because it was cooler than inside. The cabin was used by the English family until 1989, when it was donated to the Homeland Heritage Park.

A second residence on park property represented the more affluent pioneers.  The Raulerson House, built in 1900, originally sat at what is now the intersection of County Line Road and Interstate 4 on the west side of Lakeland. It never had running water or indoor plumbing.  The story on the sign at the park says the Raulerson family and the five children lived downstairs in the house, while their grove foreman and his family lived on the second floor.

The Raulersons lived in the house until 1912 and it remained in the family until 1987, when it was donated and moved to the Homeland Heritage Park.

Other Buildings and Park Features

 Two other buildings at the Homeland Heritage Park serve as the park office and the park annex building.  Both were original buildings from the Methodist Church.

A garden, an old cemetery and an outhouse are also part of the exhibit.

What is unique about this park is that the buildings on display are all original buildings once used or lived in within the county. Rather than tearing them down to make room for newer structures, they were donated to the county by their owners and moved to this location.  Homeland Heritage Park is an example other communities could follow to preserve their own history.

Floridiana Magazine (FM) Notes:

The park is open every day to allow visitors the opportunity to take a step back in time and walk through an early community.  You cannot go inside the buildings unless you call to schedule a tour.  The office is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards

For years I would pass by Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards driving along Highway 27 or the Florida Turnpike. I’d look at that building up on the hill and think about the acres and acres of orange groves that once filled the landscape. But several years of hard freezes took their toll on the citrus industry and paved the way for a new venture: vineyards and wine.

History of Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards

Lakeridge opened its doors in Clermont in February 1989, along the hills of what is known as the Lake Wales Ridge – a ridge of sand running about 150 miles north and south through the center of the state. In the early 90s another company-owned vineyard (Lafayette Vineyards in Tallahassee) merged with Lakeridge in Clermont, quickly increased its production, and became Florida’s largest winery.

A walk around the grounds turns up some remarkable sights: lush green grapevines bearing the fruits of labor, rolling hills that make you think you are not in Florida, and if you’re lucky, a closeup view of sandhill cranes.

The winery sits on a 127-acre estate, of which about 75 acres are planted with several varieties of Muscadine grapes used in both their red and white wines.  Believe it or not, the grapes grown at Lakeridge are not enough to provide all they need.  To make up for it, they contract out to some local growers who also specialize in the same grapes.

In all, Lakeridge produces about 100,000 cases of wine a year, which if you’re good at math, adds up to more than one million bottles!

Tours and Tasting

So, how do the grapes get from the vines to the bottles?  That’s a question that’s answered on the complimentary tours offered seven days a week.  Those tours and the wine tasting afterward are probably the biggest draws to Lakeridge.

The tour begins upstairs in a small theatre where you watch a short video about wine making in Florida, the history of the winery and the family that started it all, the Cox family. Afterwards, a tour guide leads you along a catwalk overlooking the production area, where you see where the wine is made, bottled, and packaged.

A stop out on the balcony provides a breathtaking view of the vineyard.

What’s the purpose of seeing how the wine is made without actually getting to taste it?  A large u-shaped tasting counter downstairs is lined with empty wine glasses and taste testing sheets to record your thoughts about the wines you sample.  Instruction is given about how to hold the glass properly and how to swirl the wine around. Then, one by one, you are led through a tasting extravaganza of seven different wines.

In all, the tour and tasting take about 50 minutes to complete.  Once you’re done, you get a chance to walk through the gift shop, peruse the wine accessories and gourmet foods, and purchase the wines you just tasted.

Festivals and Events at Lakeridge

Besides the tours, festivals and events fill the winery’s calendar.  Music series, a holiday open house, benefit concerts and harvest festivals offer plenty of entertainment opportunities. One of the biggest events is the Annual Harvest Grape Stomp in August which offers up some good old fashioned grape stomping competition.

The large outdoor space and stage provide the perfect backdrop for the events. It’s estimated that more than 160,000 people visit Lakeridge Winery every year.

Additional Information

Besides Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards in Clermont, the Cox family owns another winery in St. Augustine. San Sebastian opened in 1996 and is now the second largest winery in Florida.

Lakeridge is just north of Clermont on U.S. 27 and is open seven days a week.  Hours on Monday through Saturday are 10am to 5pm and on Sunday from 11am to 5pm.

Lukas Nursery and Butterfly Encounter: It’s More than Just a Nursery

Who would think a plant nursery would be included on a list of places to go in Florida? Besides having everything you need for your garden, Lukas Nursery offers an hour or so of good old family fun, plus there is a century of history behind it. Not to mention, it is considered one of the top 25 largest attractions in Central Florida.

Butterfly Encounter

Sometimes you just happen across one of those unexpected finds; you go someplace for one reason, and find something completely surprising.  The Butterfly Encounter is one of those places.  Although our first visit was about four years ago, there’s nothing like experiencing it through the eyes of a child.  From the walk up the pathway to the encounter itself, it is just plain cool.

Just inside the gift shop, you receive a laminated card with photo identifiers of all the butterflies (and birds) you may see, along with a quick tutorial on why you cannot touch any of these winged wonders outside the refueling station. (More on that later.)

The Butterfly Encounter delivers on the experience.  The screened-in, garden-like setting provides butterflies ample space to flit among the plants, getting their fill of the nectar while offering photo opportunities to even the youngest of photographers.

A new experience awaits you around every turn of the meandering pathway, including the “Caterpillar Flight School.” Perhaps the most fun, for kids and adults alike, is the Butterfly Refueling Station – a place where a dab of sugar water on your fingertips makes you the source of their food.  Don’t be surprised if they land elsewhere – to the delight of some, uncertainty to others.

When we asked my granddaughter Story her favorite part of the encounter, she said, “Seeing all the butterflies. And when it landed on my dress!”

No matter where you look, whether it’s in the trees or along the path, you’re sure to see more than just butterflies. This 4,000 square foot conservatory also serves as home to a covey of button quail and a number of brightly colored finches.

On the way out, don’t forget to take a good look around the gift shop.  If you need a unique present, you’re sure to find something for just about anyone on your list.

The Butterfly Encounter is open year-round, but the best time to see the butterflies is April through September.  The hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but the last admission into the encounter is at 3:30.  There is a $6.00 charge for anyone over the age of three.

Lukas Nursery

The fun doesn’t end with the Butterfly Encounter.  The nursery itself offers a relaxing walk among thousands of varieties of plants, from the ordinary to the exotic.

If you’re in the market for some unique garden art, then Lukas is the right place!  Not to mention, the statues provide even more entertainment for your kids or grandkids.

Noah loves all of the statues!

Lukas Nursery and Butterfly Encounter is a fourth-generation agricultural business and has grown from 50 one-gallon cans of woody ornamental plants to about 25 acres of plants, a garden shop and the butterfly encounter.

History of the Lukas Family

The nursery has been serving Central Florida for more than 100 years.  Paul and Mary Lukas, both Czechoslovakian immigrants, along with six other families, moved from Ohio to Florida in 1911. They settled in an area in what is now Seminole County and, in keeping with their European roots, named it Slavia.  Signs of the original settlement can still be seen – on road signs or an abandoned building just down the street from the nursery.

The family began farming in 1912 and has remained in the same location for its 100 + years. Over the years, improvements have been made, services added and the business expanded.  The one constant, however, has been the family.  (You can read more about the family and the business on the nursery’s website.)

Lukas Nursery sits on Slavia Road between Highway 417 and West State Road 426 near Oviedo.  Whether you are looking for a place to buy plants for your house or a place to spend an hour or so with your kids or grandkids, Lukas is the place.