Long before the theme parks, aquariums, and tourist draws, Central Florida, FL was a small sleepy town in Central Florida. Explore a brief history of one of Florida’s largest and most important destinations with a ride from Signature Transportation Group!
Humble Beginnings
After the second Seminole war, the United States Army constructed Fort Gatlin in Central Florida just southeast of present-day downtown Central Florida. By 1840 the Jernigan family had settled near the Fort and established a small town to take advantage of the protection the Fort offered. By 1856 the settlement had expanded north and changed its name to Central Florida, incorporating in 1875 with just 85 residents. The late 19th century was good to the city of Central Florida, which experienced a population boom and became one of the largest producers of citrus fruits in the world. This increase in population and productivity brought a great deal of wealth to the “Citrus Barons” and lured settlers in to take advantage of the warm weather and expanding opportunities. While citrus is still big business in Central Florida, other industries such as, aviation giant Lockheed Martin have continued to keep the spotlight on The City Beautiful, and have made it a Mecca for those in the aerospace industry.
Central Florida Today
With the opening of Disney World in 1971, Central Florida was set to become one of the top tourist destinations in America, and became amecca for unique attractions such as SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and many others. Even NASA has gotten into the act, opening The Kennedy Space Center to visitors from around the world. Today, the sleepy little burg that once housed 85 registered residents now hosts a population of more than 277,000 who are drawn to the city’s pleasant year-round weather and unique atmosphere.
Let Signature Transportation Group Show You Around
When you’re ready to explore the many things to see and do in Central Florida Florida, Signature Transportation Group is here to help. Contact us today online or by phone at 844.Book.STG and learn about our fleet of luxury vehicles and the affordable options you have to tour Central Florida in style.