Highlands County GenWeb Avon Park

Avon Park was founded in 1886 by Oliver Marvin Crosby among the tall stately pine forest of South Central Florida. Described by the poet Sidney Lanier during a camping trip, he writes; "we camped between two lakes and my greatest delight was the daily rides on a shaggy gray mare through the pine forest...much to my delight to see the green leaves, gold oranges, glitter of the great tranquil waters, the liberal friendship of the sun...sunsets through the pine woods is glorious." Although much of the pine forest in town has long been cleared, you can still find trails around Avon Park where the sun glistens through the cool of the towering pine trees. In Avon Park you can step back in time as you spend the night at the 1920’s Jacaranda Hotel, or just take a stroll along Main Street with it’s antique shops, old buildings, and a bandstand built in 1897. The old Railroad Station built in 1912, now serves as the local Museum, a treasure chest for geneologist searching there family roots or the inquisative history buff. A town full of civic pride, each year host parades, fireworks, carnivals, and a lawn-mower race. Yes, you heard it right, as a compliment to the 7 Days of Sebring Race next door, Avon Park host it’s own 7 Hours of Avon Park, which shouldn’t be missed. The thunderous roar of lawn-mowers as they jocky for position around the track is indeed a sight to see. Avon Park is the friendly town on the edge of the past, rich in history and charm, yet centrally located near all the Florida hot spots.

For more info on Avon Park follow these links.

Avon Park Mayors

This page created: May 18, 1997
Last modified: September 13, 1998