The story of the Strawn Historic Citrus Packing House District begins with Theodore Strawn, an Illinois native who settled in West Volusia County in 1882. Recognizing the fertile potential of the region, Strawn established an orange packing operation that would soon flourish. Despite the devastating freezes of 1894 and 1895, which crippled much of Florida’s citrus industry, Strawn’s groves survived and gained widespread acclaim for their resilience and quality.

In 1921, tragedy struck when the original wooden packing house was destroyed by fire. Undeterred, Strawn rebuilt, this time opting for a state of the art metal structure featuring a distinctive sawtooth roofline. The walls were constructed from stamped copper-alloy steel panels, designed to be fireproof—a testament to Strawn’s commitment to innovation and durability.

The Heyday of the Packing House

Throughout the early to mid-20th century, the Strawn Citrus Packing House was a bustling center of activity. The facility processed and shipped the renowned “Bob White” oranges, named after the Northern Bobwhite quails that the Strawn family enjoyed hunting. The highest quality oranges bore the “Bob White” label and were shipped to northern markets, while lower-grade fruit was sold locally.

The packing house complex spanned 20 acres and included several auxiliary structures, such as a barn, blacksmith shop, machinery house, and a steam and dynamo building. These facilities supported the packing operations and contributed to the site’s self-sufficiency.

The Decline and Abandonment

The prosperity of the Strawn Citrus Packing House came to an abrupt halt in December 1983, when a severe freeze devastated the citrus groves. The extreme cold killed the orange trees down to their stumps, effectively crippling the operation. As a result, the packing house ceased operations and was subsequently abandoned.

In the years following its closure, the site suffered from neglect, vandalism, and looting. Despite the presence of no trespassing signs and perimeter fencing, intruders caused significant damage. Fires in 2008 and 2010 further ravaged the property, destroying several outbuildings and contributing to its dilapidated state.

Historical Significance

Despite its current condition, the Strawn Historic Citrus Packing House District holds considerable historical importance. It serves as a tangible link to the early development of Florida’s citrus industry, illustrating the resilience and ingenuity of pioneers like Theodore Strawn. In recognition of its significance, the site was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 13, 1993.

Moreover, the district has been listed on The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation’s list of Florida’s Eleven Most Endangered Historic Sites since 2007, highlighting the ongoing need for preservation efforts.

Urban Exploration: A Journey Through Time

For those passionate about urban exploring in Florida, the Strawn Historic Citrus Packing House District offers a unique and evocative experience. The site’s decaying structures, overgrown pathways, and remnants of machinery provide a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for exploration and photography.

However, it’s essential to approach such sites with respect and caution. The property is privately owned, and trespassing is prohibited. Urban explorers should always seek permission before visiting and adhere to safety guidelines to protect themselves and the site’s integrity.

Preservation Efforts and the Future

The future of the Strawn Historic Citrus Packing House District remains uncertain. While its historical significance is undisputed, efforts to preserve and restore the site have faced challenges, including funding constraints and the extent of deterioration. Advocacy from preservation organizations and increased public awareness are crucial to safeguarding this piece of Florida’s heritage for future generations.

Conclusion

The Strawn Historic Citrus Packing House District stands as a poignant reminder of Florida’s rich agricultural past and the impermanence of human endeavors. For urban explorers and history enthusiasts alike, it offers a compelling destination that encapsulates the beauty and melancholy of abandoned places in Florida. By approaching such sites with respect and a sense of responsibility, we can ensure that their stories continue to be told and appreciated.