Book Description

First discovered by the American tourist in the mid-1800s, Orlando and the surrounding towns soon began to feel the impact of the newcomers, their wealth, ideas, and lifestyles. Extending pleasant winter vacations to year-round residences, these new inhabitants were drawn by the warm climate and the attractions offered in the burgeoning Central Florida region. Along with the hardy pioneers who had carved their home out of the Florida wilderness, they began to build a thriving community in Orange County. In this pictorial retrospective, over 200 historic images trace the county's improving transportation; the creation of Clay Springs, Florida's first amusement park; the development of the early citrus industry; and the exciting boom years of advancement in aviation. Flashy and unusual advertisements plugged "fun in the sun" and lured visitors and developers to the region. Touting the beauty and charm of Central Florida, these vintage images captured street scenes, local architecture, and industry and preserved the unique history of the area for posterity. Compiled here, they tell the singular story of Orange County. Spanning the period from the late 1800s to the arrival of Disney in the late 1960s, this volume features photographs from the archives of the Historical Society of Central Florida. Showcasing citrus growing and celebrations, early tourism and aviation, Orlando and Orange County pays tribute, in word and image, to the indomitable spirit of the men and women who made the region home. Readers of all ages are sure to enjoy this fascinating journey through the early years of Orlando and Orange County.