Officially known as “The Chain of Lakes City,” Winter Haven, FL is regarded as the water skiing capital of the Earth. People here spend their time fishing, swimming, water skiing, and boating through the canals that link each of the 16 lakes in our wonderful “Chain of Lakes.” If you’re a boater and enjoy using your boat nearly every day of the year, then you’ve found a home here in Winter Haven… The Chain of Lakes City.
It’s almost impossible to locate a place in Winter Haven, Florida that is not close to a freshwater lake or canal. As such, fishing is a big-time pursuit for local residents, and it makes for first-class fun!
Many year-long residents and of course, our famed northern visitors, spend their days visiting Cypress Gardens, where they converse with one of countless Southern Belles roaming the grounds, meander through the famed botanical gardens, and finish the day by watching the park’s famous and historical water ski show. Don’t know how to water ski but always wanted to learn? Well, you’re in luck! In Winter Haven, Florida, water skiing lessons, instructors and schools are a easy to find! We are the unofficial water ski capital of the world – so it’s only fitting that we play permanent host to world champion barefoot skier Ron Scarpa, who operates a barefoot skiing school on the chain!
The City’s Beginnings
Winter Haven’s beginnings trace all the way back to 1884, when the first of our residents started to arrive. Roughly one year later, our city received it’s current name – thanks to Mr P.D. Eycleshimer, one of the area’s first farmers of renown, who called it “Winter Haven” because of its incredibly moderate and agreeable climate.
The city officially incorporated in 1911. By that time, Winter Haven’s population totaled roughly 400 residents, had constructed several banks, formed a band, started a newspaper, built a cinema, and was the proud home to 15 automobiles.
Winter Haven, Florida c. 1920
The 1920′s brought the Great Florida Land Rush – which in turn brought increased business, speculation, and prosperity. It was also at this time that Florida’s resident population began to grow with increasing speed.
As you can imagine – the citrus industry has always been strong here in Winter Haven. In 1924, the Florida Citrus Festival was first held to show respect to the significance of citrus as a significant agricultural product in the area.
On September 6, 1930, 22-year-old George Jenkins opened the first Publix Food Store on 4th Street, NW not too far from the park near downtown Winter Haven.
The photo below is of this very first Publix Food Store. Mr. Jenkins prided himself on providing superior customer service. This first store established a new expectation for cleanliness and beauty, and it also helped shape the Publix hallmark of customer care and associate attention to detail. Walk into any Publix today, and you will experience this tradition first hand – it is a true testament to the tradition of Winter Have, Florida itself.
In 1936, tourism began to take hold in Winter Haven, as Dick and Julie Pope opened Cypress Gardens — and the eyes of the planet — to the beautiful climate and botanical showcase that has come to symbolize our town. From here on out, Winter Haven was well on its way to turning into the peaceful, scenic, and successful town that it is today.
The black and white photograph below is of Mr. Pope and famed film actress Bette Davis. Mr Pope is seen giving Ms. Davis the grand tour of the Gardens via a characteristically “Floridian” canopied golf cart.
You can’t beat Winter Haven for its good living, charm, regional atmosphere, and beauty. No matter whether you’re cruising the many canals on the Chain of Lakes with loved ones and friends, enjoying our many freshwater sports and activities, visiting local attractions, or setting off for a quick trip to the beaches on either coast, Winter Haven offers something for everyone.
If you are considering a move to Winter Haven and you need some sound advice regarding Realtors in our area or securing a Florida home loan, contact me or call me directly at 863-604-3019.
Specific information for individuals looking for a home loan in Florida may be found on my borrower website.
Apply for a Florida Mortgage Today
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Kevin Sandridge
The Florida Mortgage Pro
Signature Home Funding
410 Laurel Cove Way
Winter Haven, FL, 33884 |
Mobile: 863-604-3019
Fax: 888-496-0265
kevin.s@sigfunding.com
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