"The Minneola area charms with its tranquillity. The idea of being able to access the freeways but also being able to drive through the older streets that pass through Winter Garden and Oakland is something that attracts and delights. The schools are close by and the atmosphere is almost country, with a very family-oriented environment. It's definitely one of the areas that surprises us when we visit." - Andrea Pointon.
Over time, the picturesque Indian designations of most of the local waters in Lake County have been forgotten, but with regard to the name "Minneola", the city proudly salutes the
Indian interpretation for "a lot of water".
Soon after the Civil War, Captain William G. Smith became the first settler in the area. News of this beautiful region grew; thus, a slow and steady influx of settlers began to appropriate the area.
Henry Wilson arrived in 1881 and planted a flourishing grove; which eventually became Minneola's most famous mainstay. In 1882, Mr. George W. Hull, of Duluth, MN, settled on about 200 acres bordering what was then known as "Cow House Lake". The following year, he established the first post office and served as its first postmaster. He is also recognized as the founder of Minneola, as it was his idea to plan the town overlooking the shores of the lake.
In 1884, Mr. Hull's participation was fundamental in the survey and creation of the map of the city of Minneola. Both the town and the lake were named "Minneola," a name Mr. Hull's wife had chosen. The town plat was recorded in Sumterville, as Minneola was then part of Sumter County. And in 1886, Clarence Marsh, the son of Mr. & Mrs. George Marsh, was the first child born in Minneola.
The city continued to experience steady growth, attracting new residents and winter tourists. Minneola was incorporated in 1926, with Archibald A. Pitt serving as the first mayor. As the community grew, so did support for new businesses and industries, as a sawmill, drugstore, church, grocery store, hospital and railroad were all established.
For the next half century, the town experienced relatively slow growth. Minneola was known for its flourishing citrus groves, however, the harsh winter of the late 1980s brought disaster to this industry. The 1990s proved quite challenging, and the city scrambled for a new focus. The current emphasis is to concentrate on further growth and development. Huge expansion efforts, both residential and commercial, continue to produce population growth.
Central Florida's mild winters add to Minneola's appeal, making it a very attractive place to live. Highway 27 intersects the city, thus providing not only a major corridor, but also convenient access to several neighboring cities. With a large metropolitan area, an international airport, and major tourist attractions within walking distance, Minneola has a lot to offer. It provides a country atmosphere with the convenience of the big city. Minneola is without a doubt a great place to live!
Source: Translated from Minneola's official website.
