Posted on April 27th, 2023

The story of DeLand, Florida's founding is a tale of remarkable vision, determination, and perseverance. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement in the 1870s, to its growth and development into a thriving town in the 20th century, DeLand has played a significant role in the history of Florida.

The town's founder, Henry A. DeLand, was a wealthy businessman from New York who had a unique vision for the town. He believed that DeLand could become a center for education, culture, and commerce in Florida. DeLand's visionary plans for the town included wide streets and spacious lots, providing ample space for homes, businesses, and public buildings. He also made sure to include plenty of green spaces and parks to enhance the town's beauty and appeal.

The early days of DeLand were marked by slow but steady growth, primarily driven by the agricultural industry. Citrus and lumber were the primary sources of income for the settlers, but DeLand's vision for the town as a center for education and culture began to take shape. In 1883, DeLand Academy was founded, which later became Stetson University. The university quickly became one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the South, attracting students from across the region and beyond.

DeLand's commitment to education and culture also led to the development of numerous cultural institutions in the town. The Athens Theatre, founded in 1921, remains one of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of a classic American theatre in the South.

Throughout the 20th century, DeLand continued to grow and develop, with new businesses, institutions, and residential neighborhoods being established. Today, DeLand is a thriving community with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a bright future ahead.

In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating history of DeLand's founding, from its earliest days to its growth and development in the 20th century. Join me on this journey of discovery as we delve into the history of one of Florida's most beloved towns.

Early Days of DeLand

The history of DeLand's founding is rooted in the late 1800s when a group of settlers led by Henry A. DeLand arrived in Volusia County. Henry A. DeLand was a wealthy businessman from New York who had a vision of establishing a new town that would be a center of education, culture, and commerce in Florida. In 1876, DeLand and his associates founded the town of DeLand. DeLand's vision for the town was evident from the town's layout, which was in a grid pattern with wide streets and large lots. The lots were intended to provide ample space for homes, businesses, and public buildings, ensuring the town's growth potential.

The founder of DeLand made sure to include plenty of parks and green spaces in his plans. His vision was to ensure that the town was a pleasant and inviting place to live. The green spaces and parks have always been a vital part of DeLand's character and have contributed to the town's continued growth and popularity.

Growth and Development

In the early days of DeLand, the town grew at a slow but steady pace. It was primarily an agricultural community, with citrus and lumber being the primary industries. However, DeLand's vision for the town as a center for education and culture soon began to take shape.

In 1883, DeLand Academy was founded, which would later become Stetson University. The university quickly became one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the South, attracting students from across the region and beyond. Stetson University played a significant role in DeLand's growth and development, with the university contributing to the town's intellectual and cultural enrichment.

DeLand's commitment to education and culture led to the development of numerous cultural institutions in the town. The Athens Theatre, founded in 1921, remains one of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of a classic American theatre in the South. The Athens Theatre remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with regular productions showcasing local talent and entertainment.

Throughout the 20th century, DeLand continued to grow and develop. New businesses, institutions, and residential neighborhoods were established, and the town became a hub of commerce, culture, and education in Florida. The town's growth and development over the years have been a testament to the hard work and dedication of its citizens, who have remained committed to preserving and promoting the town's rich heritage and history.

Today, DeLand is a thriving community with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a bright future ahead. The town's growth and development have been fueled by the vision and determination of its citizens and leaders. DeLand continues to attract new residents, visitors, and businesses who are drawn to its unique character and charm.

The founding of DeLand, Florida is a remarkable story of vision, determination, and perseverance. From its early beginnings as a small settlement to its growth and development into a thriving town, DeLand has played a vital role in the history of Florida. The town's founder, Henry A. DeLand, had a unique vision for the town, and his determination and commitment to the town's growth and development have been instrumental in shaping DeLand's history and character.

Over the years, DeLand has grown and developed into a vibrant community that is known for its rich heritage and history. The town's success can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of its citizens and leaders who have remained committed to preserving and promoting its unique character and charm.

At the DeLand Historical Society, I am proud to be a part of this rich history. I am dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our beloved town and ensuring that its heritage is passed down to future generations. My efforts are aimed at preserving the town's unique cultural and historical landmarks and promoting its heritage and legacy.

If you are interested in learning more about the history of DeLand or getting involved in my efforts to preserve its heritage, I would love to hear from you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected]. I am always happy to answer your questions and connect you with resources to help you explore the rich and fascinating history of DeLand.