Learn more about the history that brought South Lake County to where it is today
The late 19th century marked a period of transformation for South Lake County. Railroads, linking the eastern seaboard with Florida, ushered in an era of growth and opportunity. Communities like Montverde, Clermont, Minneola, Groveland (formerly Taylorville), and Mascotte saw an influx of new residents and commerce. Clermont earned the title "Tomato Capital of Florida," and just north of Groveland, the enclave of Villa City started to take shape.
The harsh winter of 1894-1895, known as the Great Freeze, posed a significant challenge to South Lake communities. The freeze threatened their prosperity, turning Villa City into a ghost town. Residents who stayed relied on wild game, fish, and their gardens to survive. This difficult experience strengthened the bonds within these tight-knit communities.
With the dawn of the 20th century, South Lake began to experience renewed growth. Developers started promoting the region's ideal living conditions, agricultural opportunities, and health benefits to northerners and Midwesterners. Newspapers and churches emerged alongside a growing business community.
The 1920s brought an unprecedented land boom, with properties changing hands frequently in a single day. Groveland became home to the southeast United States' largest sawmill, the Arnold Sawmill, which became the area's largest employer.
During World War II, Clermont hosted an Army Signal unit. The mid-20th century saw citrus reigning supreme in South Lake, with the landscape dominated by lush green groves. Tourists flocked to see the new Citrus Tower in Clermont, which was built in 1956. However, triple freezes in the 1980s would forever alter the region's landscape and economy.
Today, the rolling hills of yesteryears are replaced by modern subdivisions and vibrant retirement communities. South Lake County's economy is driven by diverse industries, including agrotechnology, healthcare, and construction. The arrival of Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Orlando, and SeaWorld led to the formation of the unique Four Corners area.
The late 19th century marked a period of transformation for South Lake County. Railroads, linking the eastern seaboard with Florida, ushered in an era of growth and opportunity. Communities like Montverde, Clermont, Minneola, Groveland (formerly Taylorville), and Mascotte saw an influx of new residents and commerce. Clermont earned the title "Tomato Capital of Florida," and just north of Groveland, the enclave of Villa City started to take shape.
The harsh winter of 1894-1895, known as the Great Freeze, posed a significant challenge to South Lake communities. The freeze threatened their prosperity, turning Villa City into a ghost town. Residents who stayed relied on wild game, fish, and their gardens to survive. This difficult experience strengthened the bonds within these tight-knit communities.
With the dawn of the 20th century, South Lake began to experience renewed growth. Developers started promoting the region's ideal living conditions, agricultural opportunities, and health benefits to northerners and Midwesterners. Newspapers and churches emerged alongside a growing business community.
The 1920s brought an unprecedented land boom, with properties changing hands frequently in a single day. Groveland became home to the southeast United States' largest sawmill, the Arnold Sawmill, which became the area's largest employer. Fortunes were made and lost during this boom, only to be followed by the challenges of the Great Depression.
During World War II, Clermont hosted an Army Signal unit. The mid-20th century saw citrus reigning supreme in South Lake, with the landscape dominated by lush green groves. Tourists flocked to see the new Citrus Tower in Clermont, which was built in 1956. However, triple freezes in the 1980s would forever alter the region's landscape and economy.
Today, the rolling hills of yesteryears are replaced by modern subdivisions and vibrant retirement communities. South Lake County's economy is driven by diverse industries, including agrotechnology, healthcare, and construction. The arrival of Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Orlando, and SeaWorld led to the formation of the unique Four Corners area.
