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Carrabelle, Florida: Get Hooked  

Carrabelle. A quaint little town on U.S. 98 along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. It’s a town most folks drive through to get to Apalachicola or St. George Island.  But for those who choose to venture off the main road, there’s a town full of history, some unique attractions, a beautiful beach, and a fisherman’s paradise – all which prove why it’s easy to get hooked on Carrabelle.

City of Carrabelle Clock | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

History of Carrabelle

Carrabelle’s rich history spans centuries, from the Native American tribes that originally inhabited the area, to the Spanish explorers who established a presence in the area and made it a focal point for trade and exploration.

Carrabelle’s natural resources also played a significant role in shaping its history. Fishing became a vital industry, with the Gulf waters providing a bounty of seafood that sustained the local community and supported trade. The forests surrounding Carrabelle led to the rise of a thriving timber industry and fueled the growth of sawmills and lumber operations.

How Did Carrabelle Get Its Name?

In the early 1870s, Oliver Hudson Kelly, a farmer from Massachusetts, visited the area to study the potential for agriculture for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  He was impressed by the natural resources he saw and, in 1877, founded the town of “Rio Carrabella” or “beautiful river.” It’s believed Kelly named the town after his niece Caroline Arrabella Hall. The town was incorporated in 1893.

Impact of World War II

During World War II, Carrabelle played a significant role in the war effort. The town’s strategic coastal location made it an ideal site for military training and operations. In 1942, Camp Gordon Johnston was established near Carrabelle, becoming a crucial training center for amphibious warfare. The camp trained about a quarter million soldiers on the coast of Carrabelle in beach landings, waterborne maneuvers, and other essential skills needed for the war’s Pacific and European theaters. The Camp was closed in June of 1946.

Camp Gordon Johnston – a critical training area during WWII | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Aerial View of Camp Gordon Johnston, 1942-1946 | Floridiana Magazine

Carrabelle Museums

While you’re in Carrabelle, you can get a glimpse of all its history, thanks to three separate museums honoring World War II, the town itself, and the Crooked River Lighthouse.

Camp Gordon Johnston World War II Museum

The museum preserves and showcases the history of Camp Gordon Johnston. Visitors to the museum can take a step back in time and explore a wide range of artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide insights into the training programs, equipment, and daily life of soldiers who were stationed at the camp.

Welcome to Camp Gordon Johnston | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Museum displays capture the attention of even the young. | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Living Quarters | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and is located on Highway 98 West.  There is no charge for admission, but donations are welcome.

Carrabelle History Museum

From its indigenous roots to its maritime heritage, the Carrabelle History Museum offers a comprehensive look at the town’s cultural fabric. The museum is housed in the old City Hall on Avenue B. Visitors are met with a wide variety of displays – from the history of Carrabelle, to the importance of salt in WWII and its connection to the Forgotten Coast, fishing equipment, the history of shipwrecks and the lumber industry, and the tales of local legends. You will also find the original “World’s Smallest Police Station” on display in the museum.

The Carrabelle History Museum is open Wednesdays from noon until 5:00 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., and Sunday from noon until 5:00 p.m.   There is no charge for admission.

Carrabelle History Museum | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Display of salt kettle and cannon | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Fishing was a vital industry. | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The original World’s Smallest Police Station | Floridiana Magazine

Crooked River Lighthouse Keeper’s House Museum & Park

Built in 1895, the Crooked River Lighthouse provided guidance for timber ships and fishermen through the pass between Dog Island and St. George Islands. The 103- foot iron and steel structure was built on the mainland as a replacement to the three lighthouses that once stood on Dog Island. Crooked River was decommissioned in 1995, just shy of its 100th anniversary.

The lighthouse was lit with what was believed to be the first bivalve fourth order Fresnel lens installed in the United States at the time. The lens remained in the lighthouse until 1976, when it was moved to the Coast Guard’s district offices in New Orleans.  The light was recently refurbished and is now on permanent display inside the museum.

Crooked River Lighthouse, Carrabelle, FL | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The accompanying Keeper’s House Museum is a replica of the original keeper’s house. Not only does it house the Fresnel lens, it also shares the history of the lighthouse, maritime trade, and the families who lived and worked in the area.

Keeper’s House Museum | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

 

Although the park is open every day from dawn until dusk, you can only visit the museum and gift shop Thursday through Sunday from noon until 5:00 p.m. Lighthouse climbing is limited to Saturdays and Sundays from 1:00 until 4:00 p.m.  As a side note, there are 138 steps to the top. There is no charge for the museum, but there is a small fee to climb the lighthouse.

Unique Attractions of Carrabelle

Like other small towns, Carrabelle lays claim to a few surprising oddities that must be included on your to-do list in town.  The World’s Smallest Police Station and a Bottle House attract people from all over the country, if not the world.

World’s Smallest Police Station

This unique attraction started as a phone in a call box in 1953 bolted to the wall of a building in town. It was a convenient way for officers to answer police calls while out walking the beat, even though they often got wet when it was raining. Unfortunately, the phone was misused by folks in the community, and it was decided to move the box to another location.

That didn’t remedy the situation, so when the phone company replaced an old phone booth, it was the solution the town was looking for.  The old phone booth was moved to its current location on Highway 98 in 1963 and the police phone was installed.  It was dubbed the World’s Smallest Police Station. Now, the officers could answer their calls and stay out of the elements.  The dial was eventually removed because of continued misuse by residents.  What you see now on Highway 98 is a replica of the original booth. You can see the real thing inside the Carrabelle History Museum.

World’s Smallest Police Station, Carrabelle, FL | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The World’s Smallest Police station is a favorite for all ages. | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Carrabelle Bottle House

Also close to downtown, sits a shining example of one man’s ingenuity – a house and lighthouse made from glass bottles. Over a year’s time, Leon Weisner crafted more than 6,000 bottles he got from his friends and neighbors, a recycling center, or from dumpster diving. The bright blues and greens of the bottles shine in the sunlight. If you’re lucky enough to be there at dusk, the lights inside the structures come on for several hours.

There is no admission charge, just make sure you close the gate when you enter and exit so the resident dogs do not get out.

Carrabelle Bottle House | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

 

Other Things to See and Do in Carrabelle

The Beach

The public beach is a popular destination for those looking for some fun in the sun.  The white sugar sand beaches offer a place to relax in the Gulf waters or watch dolphins play offshore.  Beach goers also have access to the newly renovated Wayside Park pavilions and restrooms.

Carrabelle Beach | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The Riverfront

Not all water activities are centered around the beach.  Carrabelle is a working waterfront community that also provides access to recreational fishing and boating. The New River and Crooked River join at the Carrabelle River and connect to the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you fish from the Carrabelle River Walk or schedule a charter boat, salt water and freshwater fishing offer up some good catches.

Along the riverfront | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Boating, fishing … fun on the water | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Dining

One of the fun parts of visiting small towns is finding new places to eat. There are several to choose from in Carrabelle, but there are only so many places you can eat in one day. During our visit we stopped in Harry’s Bar and ordered our lunch from the adjacent Marine Street Grill.  Good food and a fun atmosphere.

Harry’s Bar and Marine Street Grill | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Always look up! | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

How to Get To Carrabelle

Carrabelle is located on Highway 98 along the Gulf of Mexico 20 miles east of Apalachicola and about 50 miles southwest of Tallahassee.

Final Thoughts

Carrabelle is one of many small towns dotting the Florida coastline.  It’s old Florida at its finest and once you visit, we’re sure you will get hooked on Carrabelle as well.

Click on the slideshow below to see more of our pictures from our visit to Carrabelle and leave a comment about your favorite Florida small town.

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Havana: Florida’s Friendliest Small Town

From its heyday as a major shade tobacco producer to its popularity for antiques and vintage collectable shops, Havana is one of those small Florida towns that exudes southern charm. A walk through the museum, the shops, or a stop in one of the local restaurants provide visitors with personal experiences of why Havana is considered Florida’s Friendliest Small Town.

History of Havana

Like many small Florida towns, railroad expansion provided the catalyst for Havana’s formation. A track was completed for the Georgia, Florida and Alabama Railroad in 1902 from Cuthbert, Georgia to Tallahassee, Florida, and in 1904 the small town of Havana began to take shape. Within two years, families had moved in and businesses were opened, and in 1906, Havana was founded.  The name “Havana,” proposed by local schoolteacher James Mathewson, pays homage to the Cuban tobacco cultivated in the area. It was a crop that would carry this town until the late 1960s.

While Havana was prospering in the tobacco fields, a fire in 1916 destroyed 24 stores and residences in or near the business district. According to an article that appeared in The News Leader, Richmond, VA on Saturday, March 18, 1916, only three buildings were left standing. The town would have to rebuild.

The News Leader, Richmond, VA, March 18, 1916

Shade Tobacco History

Even though Havana was not incorporated until 1906, the history of shade tobacco farming goes back to the 1800s. Early growers discovered that if tobacco plants grew in the shade of a tree, they produced thinner outer leaves and resulted in a more delicate taste. Growers adapted to this discovery and the “shaded” fields evolved from wooden slatting to plastic mesh.

Miles Henry Womack in a field of tobacco being grown under slats – Havana, Florida. 1910 (circa). State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.<https://www.floridamemory.com/items/show/28703>

Magnus Delacy Peavy and his farm hands in front of a tobacco barn – Havana, Florida. 1910 (circa). State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.<https://www.floridamemory.com/items/show/30349>

At the peak of its tobacco farming, Havana and the surrounding areas were home to more than 2,000 tobacco barns that housed the tobacco used as the outer wrappers of cigars. Over the years, those barns have fallen prey to neglect and weather, and their numbers are nearly non-existent. If you drive around Gadsden County today, you can see some of them. There’s evidence that the property owners are trying to restore some of them.

Tobacco Barn in Gadsden County | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tobacco Barn in Gadsden County | Photo taken by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tobacco Barn in Gadsden County under renovation | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

At one time there were 2,000 to 3,000 people working in the industry in Havana, and the value of the crops grew to $22 million. But unfortunately, that all ended in the late 1960s. One of the main reasons was that growers in South and Central America were able to produce the wrappers at a cheaper cost. New technology also allowed the outer coverings to be produced thinner and at scale.

What to Do in Havana

Shade Tobacco Museum

First and foremost, a stop in the museum is a must. A self-guided tour provides an in-depth glimpse of a once profitable industry and the work that went into successful crops. Read about the process from cultivation to cigar making.  Get a close look at some of the farming implements used, the way tobacco leaves were strung, and the molds used for the cigar making process.

Entrance to Shade Tobacco Museum| Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Boxes used to size tobacco leaves | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tobacco Wrapper Exhibit, Shade Tobacco Museum | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Tobacco leaves | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

While the museum’s main exhibit centers around tobacco, visitors can learn more about schools, churches, and businesses in the area.

Cigars can be purchased in the Shade Tobacco Museum | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

The museum is open Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Shops and Restaurants

When the tobacco industry folded, Havana went through a rebirth of sorts.  Downtown is now lined with antique shops, furniture, boutiques, arts, and restaurants, and holds numerous events throughout the year to draw patrons into Havana.

The Planter’s Exchange, a hub of activity in Havana | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Shops and restaurants line the streets | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Clock and fountain | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

What to See

Murals

Like other small Florida towns, murals now grace the sides of downtown businesses, portraying the past and offering a look into the future.  Besides building murals, there are also quilt murals – all painted by Florida artists.

Havana Motor Co. Mural | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Train Mural, paying homage to the railroad industry in Gadsden County | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Havana Mural | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Havana State Bank

Work was completed in July 2024 on the old Havana State Bank building (now known as the Slappey Building) to restore it to the way it was in the 1950s.  A state historical grant is assisting with the funding for the renovation efforts. Although some work has already been done, the rebuilding will begin May 2023.   Stop by for a look now, and then make plans to go once it has been restored to its original beauty.

Historic Havana State Bank | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

Havana State Bank | Photo by Doris Keeler, Floridiana Magazine

How to Get To Havana, FL

If you are traveling Interstate 10, you will want to exit onto Highway 27 at mile marker 199. Travel about 12 miles north into the heart of the town.  (It’s also located six miles south of the Georgia state line.) The drive to Havana provides some scenic views of the old Florida countryside. Whether you are visiting the Shade Tobacco Museum, shopping, or dining in one of the quaint little restaurants, you will soon find out why Havana is considered the Friendliest Small Town in Florida.

Please take a look at the slide show for more photos of our trip to Havana.

 

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Lloyd and its Historic Railroad Depot

Tucked away in Jefferson County, about a mile south of Interstate 10 on State Road 59 is a small town with a population of 140. Lloyd may not be a booming metropolis now but imagine a time when it was a bustling agricultural center. At the heart of that activity was the Lloyd Depot, now a historic landmark. It is the oldest brick depot and one of only two surviving Antebellum depots in Florida.

Lloyd Depot | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Lloyd Depot – oldest brick depot in Florida | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Lloyd Depot History

The Pensacola and Georgia Railroad began construction of the railroad in 1856. It would run from Tallahassee to Lake City then connect with the Florida, Atlantic and Gulf Railroad line to Jacksonville. In 1858, the railway was completed and the depot was built. Originally known as the Bailey’s Mill Station and then the Number Two Station, the depot served as a major shipping hub for cotton and other agricultural products. At the time, Jefferson County was one of the major cotton producing areas in the state and the railway provided planters with access to seaports on both the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts.

The railway met with great support from the growers in the area. Prior to the railroad going through Lloyd, cotton growers sent their crops by several means including ox-drawn wagons to St. Marks more than 30 miles away.

Wagons unloading cotton at the Seaboard Air Line depot – Lloyd, Florida. 1890 (circa).State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory. Accessed 19 Jun. 2022.<https://www.floridamemory.com/items/show/26673>

During the Civil War, the railroad transported wounded Confederate soldiers to hospitals to the west. Some of them were taken off the train in Lloyd and were doctored by local women in makeshift hospitals until the soldiers recovered. Only two of the soldiers treated died. They were buried about a mile west of the depot in a field.

A Community is Born

Along with the depot came expansion.  A small community arose along Main Street. Now considered the historic district, some of the old houses remain. Some buildings have been renovated, with signs identifying the families who once lived there. Others have given themselves to the elements.

Laffitte House (1890 – 1906) – Now serves as offices for Lloyd Baptist Church | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

W.A. Willie House – 1890 | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

J.J. Willie, Jr. House – 1910 | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Laffitte Store – 1912 | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

One of the most noteworthy buildings built at the time was the Whitfield House Hotel at the request of the railroad and served as a dinner stop for train passengers. The Florida Memory Project says for 75 cents, passengers would dine on a full-course meal but had only twenty minutes to eat while mail and express shipments were transferred at the depot.  When dining cars were installed on trains, the dinner stop ceased, but the House remained open until the 1930s as a hotel.  It is no longer standing.

In 1882, the names of the community and the depot were changed to Lloyd in honor of Walter Lloyd, a New Yorker who settled in the area after the Civil War and was instrumental in the recovery of its commercial and agricultural life.

The original depot (as described in the National Register of Historic Places nomination form) was a rectangular brick building with large wooden gables on the east and west ends of the depot, and wide eaves all around. It was built with a wooden cotton platform about 40 feet long. Two large freight doors flanked the west end of the building – one facing the tracks to the south, the other facing to the north.

With the town booming, the depot was refurbished in 1870. Then in the 1940s, much of the building’s wooden features were destroyed in a fire, including the wooden platform.  During the reconstruction, the brick walls, which railroad officials were worried were compromised by the fire, were tied together with steel rods, which can be seen today.

Cotton was not always king.  Watermelon, turpentine, and lumber eventually took the place of cotton after the boll weevil infestation in the 1920s.

The Winds of Change

The express and telegraph offices closed in the 1950s and passenger service continued until 1966 when the station closed.  The Seaboard Coast Line donated the depot to the Jefferson County Historical Society in 1968 and prevented demolition of the building.  The Historical Society then gave the building to the Gulf Wind Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society who has owned it ever since.

We had the pleasure of meeting some of the members during one of their workdays at the depot.  They took time away from their projects to show us around and explain what they’ve already done and what they plan to do.

Gulf Wind members began their preservation efforts in the original two waiting rooms and station master’s office. Those areas have been turned into the town’s post office, which still serves the community.

Lloyd Post Office – still serving the community | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Old Depot Ticket Window – now the window at the post office | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Post Office Boxes – Lloyd | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Work has also been done on the freight room with new electrical and plumbing fixtures being added.  The freight room now houses many artifacts, either from the depot or the railroad industry. One of those is a 1938 Fairmont S2-G which they had restored. “The Pumpkin” as they call it, holds six to eight people and travels at the “high rate of speed” of three miles per hour. Railcars like this were used to dispatch railroad crews down the line to work.

Nicknamed The Pumpkin, 1938 Fairmont S2-G Railcar – Lloyd | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Other artifacts include a safe, an original baggage cart with scale, railroad benches, a chalkboard for marking arrivals and departures, and what Society members consider to be one of the star attractions – the original Lloyd ticket cabinet, which they found in Plant City. A rack inside the cabinet held the tickets. The station master would unlock the cabinet and pull the tickets out for the passengers.

Original Safe – Lloyd | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Baggage Scale – Lloyd | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Old Chalkboard to announce arrivals and departures – Lloyd | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Original Lloyd Ticket Cabinet | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Historic Preservation of the Lloyd Depot Continues

In 1974, the depot was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Chapter members work diligently to uphold the character of the building. Lamps are reproductions of what you would have seen at the time. The mortar they use to shore up the bricks is tempered so it doesn’t destroy the existing old and soft brick.

Chapter members spend many hours working on restoring the bricks of the depot | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Mortar supplies | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

Still there is a lot to be done. The chapter is looking forward to its next projects – stabilizing the southwest corner of the building, replacing the safety railing on the platform, and adding a new door for the side of the freight room facing the railroad tracks.

Pointing out some of the projects to be done: replacing the old freight door and the railing. Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

The old railing at the depot. | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/DorisKeeler

The Gulf Wind Chapter has received some funding from the Florida Division of Historical Resources, fundraising efforts and by holding public events like the Annual Open House.

Although there are no trains that stop at the depot today, you may be lucky enough to catch one of the Florida Gulf and Atlantic current day freights slipping past. Even if you don’t see a train, if you stand by the track and listen closely, you might just hear the “clickety clack” of the old trains that once kept Lloyd a bustling community.

Train track headed east from the depot. | Photo by Floridiana Magazine/Doris Keeler

A special thanks to the Gulf Wind Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society for showing us around.

Enjoy more photos of our visit to the Lloyd Depot in the slideshow below.

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The Harvey Trucks | May They Rust in Peace

Driving through smaller towns can reap big benefits – whether it’s a quaint Mom and Pop restaurant, a once-majestic old home left to the elements, or a roadside honey stand still operating on the honor system. And then there are those finds that, at first glance, only seem suited as photo opportunities, yet in the end have their own stories to tell.

One such site is known to the locals of Wakulla County as the Harvey Trucks, owned by long-time resident Pat Harvey and his family.  Located on Crawfordville Highway about two miles north of the intersection of 319 and 98, these old relics once served the Harvey family farm well, first as working vehicles, then later as parts for newer ones. When their use was exhausted, Harvey originally planned on hauling them off for scrap metal.  But once he moved the trucks to the side of the road around 1997 and lined them up, he decided he liked the way they looked in that spot. Little did he know at the time that these two dozen cars and trucks would become the roadside attraction they are today.

The vehicles sit in a semi-circle in chronological order, some as old as the early 1900s and others as “new” as the mid 1970s. Mostly Fords and Dodges, a car buff might also see an old REO Speedwagon front and center.

For folks just passing with no knowledge of the history behind these trucks, they may look like part of a junk yard. For Harvey however, they conjure up pleasant memories. In an interview with WFSU, Harvey recounted some of his most vivid ones.

Among them, the first truck he ever rode in – a rusted 1941 Ford pickup. Then there’s a ’59 Ford he took his driver’s test in, as well as a dark green station wagon which was his family’s first car and the one he used for dates. Although the station wagon is rusted out, a tinge of green paint is evident in several places on the exterior, while the interior still sports faded green and tan seats.

There’s also a cattle truck that did more than just transport cattle. It was used for leisure activities. Harvey remembers sitting on a board put up across the back of the truck and riding down the highway, bugs splatting like a motorcycle without a windshield.

Each vehicle has its own story to tell and as the story of their existence has grown, so, too has their popularity. Over the years, the trucks have become a landmark of sorts. They are used as the backdrop for prom and homecoming pictures, not to mention the subject for photographers and artists alike, whether it’s for their rust and neglect, or just their novelty.

Unfortunately, the years have taken their toll on these old relics. Trees have sprouted through the rusted floorboards; vines have grown around and inside them; and vandals have taken care of what Mother Nature could not. Most are missing all of their emblems or pieces of chrome. Windows have been broken. The interiors stripped of gear shifts and odometers. Still, others got their own “paint job.”  Years ago, there was a sign that sat in the front row of the trucks that read “May They Rust in Peace.”  Sadly, even that sign is gone.

At one time, the Harveys thought they would have to clear away the trucks because of a city ordinance passed to keep folks from letting junk cars sit in their yard in public view.  Fortunately, the Harvey Trucks were grandfathered in and can remain indefinitely.

Visiting the Trucks

Heading south on 319 past Crawfordville and before Medart, the trucks can be seen on the right side of the road. There is no sign that says you have arrived, so it’s easy to drive past the first time. A circular drive makes it easy to park and get out, but it’s advisable to wear closed-toe shoes because of broken glass, overgrown trees and shrubs, and who knows what else. Take your camera along and capture your own photos of these old trucks. I’ve been a couple of times and have taken a picture of something new each time.

Enjoy some of my photos in the slideshow below and stay tuned for another post of just my photos.

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“Old Pisgah” | Pisgah United Methodist Church

Next to the home, the church played an integral role in old Florida history, serving as the foundation for faith and fellowship. Getting to church often took several hours, as members had to travel on foot or by horse. For that reason, Sundays at the church were more than just services. They were all day events, complete with lunch on the grounds and time to socialize with others they hadn’t seen in a month.

Many of these old churches still dot the rural landscape. Some of them are abandoned, while others still open their doors every Sunday.

One such church is Pisgah United Methodist Church in northeast Tallahassee, one of the oldest Methodist churches in the area. A winding canopy road that bears the name of the church leads to the church and its cemetery – two pieces of Florida history that have withstood the test of time.

Church sign at the corner of Centerville Road and Pisgah Church Road | photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Winding road that ends at Pisgah United Methodist Church | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Pisgah United Methodist Church | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Fortunately for me, my trip to Old Pisgah included a personal tour of both the church and the cemetery, and provided me with a deeper and more meaningful snapshot of the history. My guides, Robert and Cindy Smith, have been members for 20 years and have a deep affection for the church and the early pioneers who came before them.

Robert and Cindy Smith, Church members and guides | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The Church and the Centerville Community

In 1825, land, in what would later become the Centerville community, was selling for $1.25 an acre and resulted in an on-rush of planters from the Carolinas and Virginias. Large plantations began to emerge with cotton as the major crop. Along with these settlers came the need for spiritual growth. They named the site they selected for that growth Pisgah, after the Biblical mountain in Jordan.

The exact date of the beginning of Pisgah United Method Church is not known. However, according to the National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form, there is evidence that indicates the congregation first formed in the 1820s, when provisions were made at the South Carolina Conference of the Methodist Church (January 20, 1825) for a circuit preacher to serve in the vicinity of Tallahassee. The Centerville community was included in the district.

One of the most important dates in the church’s history is May 3, 1830, when 34 charter members officially organized as a Methodist Episcopal Church.

The Structures

The existing church is believed to be the third in this location. The first was a brush arbor – an outdoor “structure” built by early settlers using trees and branches to protect themselves from the wind and sun. The second structure was made of logs and was a great improvement to the brush arbor.  It is said to have had a sawed out opening for a door, pews to sit on, floors, windows with shutters, and a roof.

The third church, still in use today, was constructed during the summer and fall of 1858 on seven acres of land deeded to the church for $125. With a construction cost of $5,200, the church was officially dedicated in May 1859.

Pisgah United Methodist Church | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The church is regal, yet simple. From the moment you walk through the main door, you can’t help but be impressed by the architecture of the time. Every board used was cut on the property. Large pine trees were stripped and placed under the church as part of its foundation.

Four elongated celestial windows adorn the east and west sides of the church and – prior to air conditioning – allowed air to flow in a circular motion, providing worshippers with relief from the heat. The windows also allowed light into the sanctuary. A plain wooden cross hangs behind the raised pulpit.

Additional evidence of the craftsmanship can be seen in the storage spaces in the church’s entry way.

View from the balcony | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Wooden Cross | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Original craftsmanship | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Sitting among the hand-hewn original pews, you can almost hear the voices of the early worshippers singing the hymns of old, with the lights from oil lanterns casting a glow over the sanctuary. The lanterns remain in the church but were upgraded to electric in the 1990s by order of the fire marshal. Overhead hanging lights were added in 1880 and later converted from gas to electricity following World War II.

One of the original lanterns in the church | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Overhead hanging lights | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The pews themselves speak of the customs of the time. There is no center aisle to the church. Instead, the center pews are flanked by aisles and additional pews on both sides. By design, a wooden centerpiece runs through the middle of the pews and was used to separate men and women. This practice held until the 1920s when, as stories go, a young lady in the church chose to sit with her boyfriend. The balcony (once used by slaves) is no longer open for worshippers because of safety codes.

The wooden center piece kept men and women from sitting together. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Hand-hewn pews are more than 160 years old. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The center piece remains, although the practice of separating men and women ended in the 1920s. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The balcony is no longer in use due to safety codes. Pews are not original to the church. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The Pisgah Cemetery

The sign marking the entrance to the Pisgah Cemetery. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

A visit to Pisgah United Methodist Church is not complete without a walk through the cemetery. As someone who works on my own family history and has visited many old cemeteries, I often wonder about the stories behind the names. My tour of the Pisgah Cemetery came with that information and more. The Smiths, who were caretakers of the cemetery up until a few years ago, were curious about those who buried here and researched the names. Just like they have done for groups and individuals before me, the Smiths provided a narrative of the cemetery unlike any I have heard.

Cindy Smith points out one of eight Confederate soldiers buried in the cemetery. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Under the hot Florida sun, with rain clouds building and birds chirping, Robert and Cindy took turns talking about the graves. As we walked through the cemetery, the Smiths shared stories of some of the individuals. Calling the deceased by their first names, Robert and Cindy explained the relationships among those in the cemetery, shared diary entries of one of the eight Confederate soldiers buried here and pointed out the inscriptions on the tombstones:

Grave marker with inscription | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

Grave marker with inscription | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The Smith’s untiring work in the cemetery included cleaning the headstones, repairing some when possible, and replacing other stones when only pieces to the originals were found. Their labor of love has meant the stories of those buried here will continue to be told.

Yellow Fever

One interesting feature of the cemetery is it is the final resting place for some of the victims of yellow fever. Pisgah Church had the only cemetery in the area during the epidemic of 1841. When the disease raged across Leon County, it caused hundreds of deaths and the cemetery became the common burial site for about thirty residents of the Centerville community. A small plaque identifies the open field where these individuals are buried.  Ground penetrating radar identified four straight rows with what appear to be graves 39 inches apart. Who they are may never be known, but they will not be forgotten. The graves are now marked with rebar driven into the ground and a silver cap on the end with an inscription that reads:

“Pisgah United Methodist Church. Unknown soul. Sleep with the angels.”

Common burial site of yellow fever victims. The individuals’ names are not known. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

The plaque that identifies the field where victims of yellow fever are buried. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

One of more than 70 markers placed throughout the cemetery for individuals who have not been identified. About 30 are in the yellow fever field. | Photo by Doris Keeler/Floridiana Magazine

There is much more to the history of Pisgah United Methodist Church. Today, the church and its members continue to serve the community through outreach, fall festivals, Easter egg hunts and fish fries. Sunday dinners, once held inside with plywood laid across the pews, have been moved outside and are common events. At various times throughout the year, church members place wreaths and flags on the graves of veterans.

Additional Facts

  • Old Pisgah was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1974.  It is also on the National Register of Methodist Structures and Florida Historical Markers.
  • Families who have been instrumental to the church since its inception include Roberts, Bradford, Gramling, Bradley, Felkel, Switzer, and Baum to name a few.
  • A “hitching post” used by early members who rode up on horses still stands in the brush to the side of the church.
  • The oldest grave in the cemetery is for J.D. Hodges who died in March 1817.
  • A culvert that runs between the cemetery and the Moore Memorial Garden once served as Centerville Road.
  • The church has a seating capacity of 400.
  • One of the former pastors of Pisgah was William C. Collins, grandfather of LeRoy Collins, the 33rd governor of Florida.  Governor Collins’ father, Marvin, was born in the parsonage on Pisgah property in 1877.

From its humble beginnings to present day, one thing has remained constant at Old Pisgah: family.  And for that family, Pisgah is home.

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Falling Waters State Park | Home of Florida’s Tallest Waterfall

A visit to any of Florida’s 175 state parks is a good day in and of itself. Whether it’s Blue Spring State Park in Orange City to view the manatees, or the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park in Cross Creek to see where the famed author spent her time writing, our state parks offer a variety of experiences.

Did you know there is a Florida State Park that boasts the state’s tallest waterfall? Falling Waters State Park can make that claim and is definitely one park to put on your to-do list.

Falling Waters State Park

THE PARK

Falling Waters State Park is located just south of Chipley in the Florida Panhandle and is comprised of 173 acres and offers a glimpse of what Florida looked like when Spanish explorers first arrived about 500 years ago. Park literature says the land shows evidence of habitation as early as 5,000 years ago and that Native Americans were still living in the area during the British occupation of Florida in 1778. Fast forward more than 240 years and even more is known about the area. In some places, the trail system actually crosses over an “underlying cave system where trained divers using specialized equipment have mapped more than 400 feet of passage beneath the park. These caves and sinkholes play a crucial role in recharging underground supplies of Florida’s drinking water.”

THE WATERFALL

Let’s be honest, when you think of waterfalls, you probably think of the mountains in North Carolina or Georgia, but Florida has its fair share of them as well. They just aren’t as tall and although the highest in Florida is just under 75 feet, it is impressive.

A wooden stairway leads down into the mouth of a 100-foot-deep sinkhole. It’s the closest point to observe the waterfall as the water cascades from a creek into the bottom of the sink then disappears into a cave. On the day of our visit, the sign at the park entrance said the waterfall flow was moderate. Standing close to it, it felt more powerful than that. You could hear the roar and feel the strength of the water as it crashed over the edge.

Fortunately, recent rains had created a stronger flow, which in turn provided a better viewing experience. Summer thunderstorms could result in a raging torrent, or a drought could slow the water to a trickle. Two other observation decks provide picturesque views of the waterfall – with the upper overlook offering the best look at the entire waterfall system. Photos aren’t bad from this location either.

Getting to the waterfall was not as difficult as I expected. A concrete walkway and wooden boardwalks made the hike easier. Steps leading down to them could be tricky if they were wet, but handrails make the descent safer.

OTHER THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Although the waterfall is the centerpiece of the park, there is more to see and do. From the lake to the trails to the camping areas, there is something for everyone.

Turtle Lake

Turtle Lake was created to provide a consistent water supply to the waterfall. The overflow from the two-acre lake actually leads to one of the original creeks that feed the waterfall.

Swimming is also a favorite pastime at the lake. Whether you want to sunbathe on the white sandy beach or take a dip in the water to cool off on a hot Florida day, the lake is one of the draws to the park. And there are good fishing spots, too. You just need to have a state freshwater fishing license.

Hiking Trails and History

Three hiking trails provide ample opportunities to see the lush landscape and or any of the twelve sinkholes within the park. Whether it’s the upland pine forest, a hardwood hammock, or the ferns growing along the trail, there is plenty of natural beauty to behold.

The trails also provide a walking history of the park. During the Civil War, the waterfall powered a grist mill for making corn within the park’s boundaries. A legal whiskey distillery was also operated near the falls in the late 1800s and the spirits were sold at a site that would later become Chipley. Farther along the trail, the remnants of an oil well can be seen. The first oil well was drilled in 1919 but was capped off two years later when it failed to produce commercial quantities of oil.

ADDITIONAL SITES TO SEE

If visiting the waterfall, hiking or swimming isn’t enough, you can also get a glimpse of butterflies in the butterfly garden, let your children play on the playground, or spend a weekend camping at one of the sites. Besides boasting the tallest waterfall, Falling Waters State Park can also claim the highest elevated campground in Florida. Pine Ridge Campground has 24 campsites equipped with water, electricity, picnic tables and ground grills.

How to Get There

If you are on Interstate 10 in the panhandle, exit south on State Road 77 (exit 120). Follow SR 77 about a mile to State Park Road, then go east and follow the signs to the park entrance.

The park is open 8:00 a.m. until sunset 365 days a year, unless there are extenuating circumstances. An entrance fee is also required. At the time of this post, that fee was $5.00 per car.

Watch the slideshow below for more photographs of Falling Waters State Park.

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Bradley’s Country Store

Whether it was during my time at Florida State University in the 80s, or family visits to Tallahassee to see my uncle and his family at Thanksgiving, Bradley’s Country Store was always one of those places we had to go. We’d load up on sausage then count the days until our next visit.

It wasn’t until I started this blog in 2017 that I began to appreciate the value of hidden gems like Bradley’s. So, when I moved to Tallahassee in October 2020, I put it at the top of my list of old Florida places to visit near my new home. My only question: Why did I wait so long to go?

The drive to Bradley’s is well worth the 12-mile trip from Tallahassee. Two-lane canopy-covered Centerville Road provides a peaceful, relaxing journey. It’s a journey that is regularly made by thousands of locals, as well as visitors from throughout the Southeast. When we arrived on a recent Saturday, the front parking spaces were full, as well as the adjoining picnic area and spaces across the street – a testament to its popularity.

The Store

From the road, Bradley’s looks like you would expect an old country store to look.  There is no glitz or glamour, no neon lights to draw you in.  In fact, the exterior of the store holds true to its heritage, looking much the same as it did in 1927 when Bradley’s opened its doors for the first time. The storefront itself is iconic and can be seen in photos across social media platforms. The front porch is a throwback to grandma’s porch, with its wooden rocking chairs, reaching out to the traveler to “come and sit a spell.”

Inside, the old country store charm continues. The history of the store can be seen on walls and counters wherever you turn. Three aisles of merchandise, from fresh vegetables to Bradley’s branded sauces and preserves, and old-fashioned hard candy await visitors.  An old Coca Cola drink case filled with bottled sodas sits just inside the front doors, along with a juke box and a manual cash register that no doubt has seen its share of sales. Photos of the Bradley family, along with old newspaper clippings, and a framed presidential note of thanks for Bradley’s grits are also on display.

The Sausage

The main attraction, however, is at the back of the store, Bradley’s famous country smoked sausage. A chalkboard spells out the offerings, a meat case holds the goods, but it’s not until you bite into the sausage that you understand why it is so popular. Bradley’s is very selective about the ingredients in the sausage they sell.  It is seasoned and smoked using the same recipe Grandma Mary Bradley used four generations ago. Oak and green hickory are used to cure the sausage out in the smokehouse behind the store. The aroma from the smokehouse permeates your senses as you walk past it.

On any given Saturday, you can expect to stand in line to get one of Bradley’s daily lunch specials – a six-inch sausage dog with chips and a drink.  The line moves fast, and the service is friendly and personable.  While the sausage dogs are divine, make sure to order up a pound or two of the sausage links.  If you get back home and want more (or want to share with friends and family across the country), Bradley’s also ships their sausage.  Just visit their website to place your order.

Grits!

While sausage is Bradley’s claim to fame, another draw to the store is its country milled grits.  Just outside of the main store is the mill house which houses the grist mill used for grinding corn into cornmeal and grits. History has it when the mill opened nearly a century ago, local farmers and sharecroppers visited the mill house to have their own corn ground for personal use.

True to history, the mill was cranking the Saturday we were there – ground corn falling into tubs below, an old Ford 600 tractor providing the power to keep the mill churning.

Bradleys_WorkingMill

Visiting Bradley’s Country Store

Four generations of the Bradley family have kept the business going and thriving, while at the same time holding on to family traditions. As their brochure states, they are “A Link with the Past.”  So, if you’re tired of today’s rat race, take a visit to yesterday.

Bradley’s Country Store is located at 10655 Centerville Road, just outside of Tallahassee. Once you get there, plan on staying awhile and enjoy the peaceful country atmosphere.   Sit on the front porch or enjoy your lunch on the picnic tables under the trees.  Additional tables and a pond are located just across the street.

Bradley’s is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  The store is closed Sundays and major holidays.

Whether you are roaming the aisles in the store itself, or walking around the grounds, it is truly an old Florida treasure to be experienced.

Watch the slideshow below for more photos of our visit to Bradley’s Country Store.

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Faces of Florida: Herman Wells, Furniture Maker

Update:  Herman Wells passed away in August 2024.  He will be remembered as a kind, old soul and is truly missed.

On a recent visit to Cedar Key, we stopped by the Wells Wood shop on 5th Street.  Although Mr. Wells was busy at the time, he stopped what he was doing and with true, old Florida hospitality invited us to sit down for a while.  What was intended to be a short visit turned into an hour-long conversation. Over the course of our visit, Mr. Wells talked about his shop, his late wife, and his late long-time canine companion. He told us how he used to be a commercial fisherman and boat builder, and about the way things used to be in Cedar Key.  Mr. Wells pulled out his phone and showed us a photo of one of the boats he built, along with a video of himself playing the guitar and singing. I’m sure if one of his four guitars had been in his shop, he would have pulled it out and played for us.

Herman Wells, Furniture Maker | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

One of the boats Mr. Wells built | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Wells Wood Shop

At 79, Herman Wells starts every day by 6:00 a.m.  He doesn’t have far to go to get to work since he lives in a small house behind his shop. For decades, Mr. Wells has been making this same morning trek to the wood shop.  When he was growing up, this building was the church he attended and where his father, a preacher, would hold Sunday services when the regular pastor was unable to stand in the pulpit.

Wells Wood shop on 5th Street | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Wells Wood Shop | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Pulpit | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Although the pulpit is still there, the inside has been transformed into a wood worker’s dream.  A large shop fan sits by the open side doors, offering a little relief to the hot Florida temperatures. Inside, a vast assortment of wood working machinery and tools, along with stacks of cedar stand at the ready for Mr. Wells’ creations.  Most days he can be found here sawing, routing, drilling and assembling.  Mr. Wells says his furniture, consisting of Adironack-style chairs, gliders, tables and slatted chairs are located in every state, and as far away as Holland.

Shop fan keeps things as cool as it can | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

One of many woodworking tools | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Assorted tools | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Stacks of wood | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Mr. Wells taught himself how to build furniture, starting first with plans but then modifying them to his liking.  Although he doesn’t work as quickly as he once did, he tells us he can still have two Adirondack-style chairs cut out and ready for assembly by noon.

Wood, wood and more wood | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Stack of finished chairs | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Finished table | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Besides the wood shop, Mr. Wells also has a sawmill on ten acres outside of town. He traded two lots in town for the property where the logs used in his shop are run through the cutting process and sliced into planks.

Wells Wood Sawmill | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Wells Wood Sawmill | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Mr. Wells has become somewhat of a celebrity in town after numerous articles have been published about his furniture making.  He wasn’t born in Cedar Key, but he was raised here.  He says he remembers a time when there were only about 100 people living on the island.  Although there were just over 700 living in Cedar Key in 2019, it is a popular spot for tourists.  Mr. Wells recounts how signs of the old Cedar Key are fading.  A large aluminum dock has replaced the old wood dock.  Street names have changed.  New condos and larger stilt homes have taken the place of some of the older structures in town.

Changing times | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Even with the changes, Mr. Wells loves the Cedar Key life and his celebrity. He tells us how visitors to his shop always take pictures of him standing in the front doorway.  Of course, we had to get that photo as well.

Herman Wells and one of his chairs | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Wells Wood Contact Information

If you are ever in Cedar Key, make sure to stop and see Mr. Wells.

709 NW 5th Street

(352) 477-0160

Enjoy a few more of our photos from our visit with Mr. Wells.

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Faces of Florida Nominations

Visiting with Mr. Wells was a treat, and I’m sure there are many other Floridians like him with great stories and experiences to share.  If you know of someone we can profile in our Faces of Florida, please send an email to floridianamag@gmail.com nominating him or her.  Please include the following:

  • Individual’s name
  • Place of residence (town or county)
  • Story background
  • Why their story represents old Florida

We look forward to your nominations.

 

Eight Ways to Experience Florida from the Comfort of Your Home

Let’s face it.  We are living in an unprecedented time.  The state of Florida is under a stay at home order, parks are closed, museums are closed, and attractions are closed.  While we can’t get out and enjoy them in person, we can still visit – virtually.

Grab your computer, your phone or your tablet, and experience Florida from the comfort of your home.

Archbold Biological Station

Located in Venus (yes, that’s in Florida), Archbold Biological Station is a research institute that focuses on the environment of the Lake Wales Ridge and parts of Central Florida. Formed in 1941, it encompasses a large area of Florida scrubland.  Normally, the Station is open for visitors, providing a glimpse into its work, from conservation to science to nature and living green, through displays and hiking trails. Guided tours are also available, but at a cost.

For now, those opportunities are not available, so Archbold has created a Discovery Classroom Virtual Field Trip.  This is a free weekly 25-minute virtual field trip and will focus on the following topics:

  • April 7: Lake Wales Ridge
  • April 14: Hicoria: A Brief History of a Florida Ghost Town
  • April 21: Fire
  • April 28: Wildflowers

How to participate, register for the classes through Archbold’s website.

Bok Tower

Also located in Central Florida, Bok Tower sits atop Iron Mountain in Lake Wales. Founded by Edward W. Bok, the gardens opened to the public in 1929 and now feature nearly 50 acres of palms, ferns, oaks and other trees. The centerpiece of 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 would normally ring out with concerts every day.

Bok Tower | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Even though the gardens are closed, Bok Tower is offering regular live concerts from the Tower, as well as virtual walks along the pathways and fun activities like “Name that Tune.”

How to join: Follow Bok Tower Gardens on Facebook and take advantage of all of their activities.

Castillo de San Marcos

One of the state’s top tourist destinations, Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.  Made of coquina, the fort was built more than 315 years ago to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the New World.  While walking through the fort is an unforgettable experience, you can still take a tour from home.

How to join:  Click here for the Castillo de San Marcos Virtual Tour, presented by University of South Florida Libraries and the National Park Service.

Central Florida Zoo

The zoo may be closed, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get up close and personal with the animals who live there. The Zoo to You is a daily live event featuring a different animal and fun activities for kids. Some of the featured animals so far include porcupines Pancake and Pluto, and giraffes Gage and Rafiki.    Follow along on Facebook every day at 2:00 p.m.  Tune in for Double Feature Friday which presents two live events at noon and 2:00 p.m. If you miss any of the episodes, just scroll through their timeline and watch them all.  You may just make a few new friends!

How to join:  Follow Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens on Facebook.

Central Florida Zoo | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Gatorland

Gatorland is one of those original Florida theme parks, opening more than 70 years ago.  Its iconic gator mouth welcomes visitors into its 110 acres of alligators, crocodiles, petting zoo, aviary and observation tower.   The park may be closed, but the gators and other wildlife have to be fed.  So, while a limited crew is on site, they are providing daily activities through School of Croc every day at 10:00 a.m. (live on Facebook) and at 5:00 p.m. on their YouTube Channel.  Gatorland plans to provide these live feeds until the park is able to reopen.

How to join:  Follow Gatorland Orlando on Facebook or watch Live at Five on Gatorland’s YouTube channel.

Kennedy Space Center

Situated on Florida’s east coast and just a short drive from Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center offers a glimpse into the past, all while creating a sense of excitement over the future of the space program.  During regular times, visitors can walk among the Rocket Garden, visit the Astronaut Hall of Fame, take a bus tour of NASA property, and stand in awe of the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

Although the Visitor Complex is temporarily closed, KSC is providing daily educational presentations on topics like moon rocks, living and working in space, and building a rocket out of a paper towel roll. In addition to the videos provided on Facebook, there are also virtual learning resources available.

KSC goes live at 9:30 a.m. for younger children and 1:00 p.m. for others.  If you miss any live streams, scroll through their Facebook feed and watch them.  You can also click on the videos tab on their Facebook page to watch additional videos.

How to join:  Follow Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on Facebook.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Mount Dora

Mount Dora is one of those charming towns in Florida you can’t help but visit time and again.  With an historic downtown, plenty of activities on the lake, and numerous festivals throughout the year, there is something for just about anyone.  Mount Dora is, as the sign says, someplace special.

While a lot of the activities have been canceled or postponed in Mount Dora, you can still get your daily dose of this quaint little town through a live feed of downtown.  The Lakeside Inn has also been hosting live concerts through their Facebook page.

How to join:  Click on this link to the live feed and Lakeside Inn, Mount Dora on Facebook.

Mount Dora | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

Majestically reaching 175 feet into the sky, the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in the state, and second tallest masonry lighthouse in the United States, behind the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Unfortunately, you can’t climb the 203 steps to the top right now, but you can participate in the Ponce Inlet Virtual Tour.

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

These are just a few of the Florida places we have found offering virtual tours or live daily updates on social media.  If you are looking for something specific, try looking them up on Facebook to see if they are offering any virtual tours.  We have discovered more of our favorites are adding live events to keep in touch.  If you see something, please leave a comment along with a link and we will make sure to highlight it on our Facebook page.

Don’t forget we have a checklist of Florida places to visit.  Print it out and start making plans on where you want to go once this passes.  We even left some blanks for you to fill in your own.

Florida Travels_Checklist

Stay safe.  Stay at home.

 

 

Black Hammock Adventures | Airboats and More

Admittedly, I am not the most adventurous person you’ll ever know.  Maybe that comes from tipping over in a canoe, cautiously watching dozens of alligators from a canoe in the middle of a lake, or a startling encounter with a snake along a park trail.  So, when I decided on an airboat ride for the latest Florida adventure, let’s just say I was a bit apprehensive at first.  However, it turned out to be one of my most favorite outdoor activities – ever – thanks to Black Hammock Adventures.

Black Hammock | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

The Airboats

Located on Lake Jesup in Oviedo, Black Hammock Adventures has been providing airboat rides for more than 15 years.  Their boats are approved by, and the captains licensed by, the U.S. Coast Guard.  Needless to say, they know what they are doing.

After purchasing tickets in the gift shop, it was down to the dock to wait for boarding.  Airboat rides leave every 30 minutes, so you will not wait very long for your excursion.  Our boat had a grand total of seven, which included six passengers and the captain.  It could easily have seated another nine passengers.  The captain started with a brief safety review, informed us of the noise and the need to wear the provided ear protection, and offered a short background of the lake.  Then we were off on our adventure.

Black Hammock Airboats | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Picking up speed, we glided gracefully along the smooth waters of the lake.  The bright sun and blue sky created the perfect conditions, although there was a chill in the air.  Needless to say, the weather was on our side.  Since the boat wasn’t at capacity), we could see the wildlife and fauna on both sides of the boat.

The first part of our excursion took us off the main lake and into a cove of sorts.  Idling along the shoreline, we saw osprey flying overhead and alligators in the water – one sunning himself on a log, another lazing nearby, a limpkin just beyond.

Just hanging out | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

If I walk away slowly, maybe he won’t see me! | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

After a leisurely ride along the south shore, we picked up speed and headed across the lake to the north shore.  Making our way across the marshes and several quick airboat turns, we ended up in another part of the lake with an abundance of wildlife.  Great blue herons waded along the shore, anhingas perched, drying off their wings, ducks skimming across the water, and, of course, more alligators lazed on or near the shore. Lake Jesup is said to have one of the densest populations of alligators in the state.

Great blue heron | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Photo by Floridiana Magazine

American alligator | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

After meandering along the shore, we head back across the lake to the dock.  For someone who was apprehensive at first, I felt a little disappointed when we disembarked.

Dropping off our ear protection, we were led back to the gift shop for the grand finale – a “close encounter” with a small gator.

My new best friend?

Other Things to See and Do

If you’ve never been to Black Hammock, don’t think it’s something you drive out to, take your airboat ride, then turn around and leave.  There is much more to do and see.  Free exhibits include a parrot jungle, an alligator viewing area, and Hammy – a 12-foot alligator born in 1968 and weighing in at around 600 pounds.  His personal bio says he was the one selected from over 100 alligators to retire at Black Hammock.

Parrots at the Parrot Jungle | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Happy gators! | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Meet Hammy | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

After seeing all of the alligators, if you’re craving some “gatorlicious appetizers,” head up to the Black Hammock Restaurant.  Of course, there’s much more to eat that just gator!

Gator meat! | Photo by Floridiana Magazine

Our spur-of-the-moment trip to Black Hammock made for a perfect day.  From the airboat ride, to lunch at the restaurant, and a drink at the Lazy Gator Bar, this is one adventure that will be repeated.

Please take a moment and watch our slideshow below of more of our trip to Black Hammock.

Oh, and be sure to like us on Facebook and Instagram.

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