A Look Back into Ormond Beach History

For years, Ormond Beach has been a family-friendly destination. But did you know that this safe and comfortable locale has been bustling for decades? Few areas in Florida can boast the rich history that Ormond Beach owns.

While time has moved on, and modern day amenities and conveniences have made life easier and more enjoyable, the same hometown values remain in Ormond Beach. Read on to learn more about this dynamic seaside community.

Humble Beginnings

Centuries before Europeans arrived in Central Florida, the Ormond Beach area was home to Native American tribe of the Timucua. Years later in 1874, a colony was established called New Britain. In 1880, it was incorporated as a town and named Ormond, later Ormond Beach.

Thanks in part to Henry Flagler’s railroad, Ormond Beach soon became a favorite destination. The Hotel Ormond hosted many prestigious guests. Later, John D. Rockefeller would make Ormond Beach his winter residence. The Casements still stands today and welcomes guests to take a glimpse into the not-too-distant past.

Around the same time, big names in the emerging automobile industry (including Henry Ford, Ransom Olds, and Louis Chevrolet) staged auto races on the beach. This hobby eventually became NASCAR. In fact, today Ormond Beach is known as the “birthplace of speed.”

Modern Appeal

Signs of the area’s early beginnings are still present. For instance, on Beach Street (just down from the Anderson Price Memorial Library), you can see the Ormond Burial Mound. This is the final resting place of many Native Americans.

Nearby starts the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail. Here’s a chance to get up close and personal with Central Florida nature. Along the way, make plans to stop off at Bulow Creek State Park, Tomoka State Park, and James Ormond Park — where the son of the city’s founder is buried.

Making the loop, you’ll soon find yourself in the heart of Ormond Beach, where you’ll discover unique shops and dining options not available anywhere else. You can also view some of the original dwellings, including The Casements, the winter home of Ransom Olds, The Hammocks, the Dix House, and a replica of the famous Ormond Garage.

Every Day Enjoyment

By now you can see that Ormond Beach really has it all: a solid historical past with modern-day conveniences and amenities. It’s one of the many reasons why people who visit Ormond Beach choose to return for all or part of the year. Now, you can build a high-quality custom home in Ormond Beach that features all the things you’ve ever wanted or needed in a residence.

In fact, for nearly three decades we’ve helped people from across the country and the world find their ideal spot in some of the most distinctive locales in Central Florida. That includes Halifax Plantation in Ormond Beach, plus Southern Pines, Westland Village, River Oaks, Bulow Creek Preserve, and throughout the City of Palm Coast. Contact us today to get started on a stand-out custom home of your own.