Discover a Gem of Florida History

People from all over know Ormond Beach as a hub of art, culture, and history in Central Florida. In fact, historians can date people in this area back to the Timucuan Indians. In the mid-1600s, Quakers called this region home. Years later, it was under control of Spain. In 1875, long after Florida came under United States control, the town was called New Britain. It was incorporated as Ormond in 1880.

Now, you can live where people have happily raised families for years. Plus, this area still holds firm to its family-friendly and welcoming roots. Read on to learn more about how Ormond Beach started, and what makes it a gem in Central Florida to this day.

Fascinating History

You might have heard about early races held in Ormond Beach. The hard-packed sand made the ideal track for speed enthusiasts, and historians can date races taking place back to 1902. Years later, that activity turned into what’s known today as NASCAR.

In 1914, Ormond Beach became home to a famous resident. Oil magnate John D. Rockefeller’s winter home, The Casements, still stands today. Visitors can view authentic relics of the time period, and then relax and unwind in nearby Rockefeller Gardens Park.

Other notable residents of Ormond Beach include 2008 Olympic gold medalist (beach volleyball) Phil Dalhausser, New York Mets pitcher Jacob deGrom, musicians David Allan Coe and Brian Kelly, U.S. Representative Shirley Chisolm, and more. 

Attractions and Amenities Abound

There’s nothing like driving down the curvy Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail and witnessing living history. Here’s where you’ll find interesting attractions such as the James Ormond Park, Tomoka State Park, Bulow Creek State Park, and other natural points of interest. You could also spend a fun and relaxing day in the sun at Addison Blockhouse Historic State Park, Andy Romano Beachfront Park, and elsewhere.

Other popular activities and attractions include the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens, Bailey Riverbridge Gardens, the Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center, and historic downtown Ormond Beach, where you’ll find unique and inviting shops and restaurants you can’t encounter anywhere else.

Live the Life You Love

In fact, this small town charm is one of the many reasons why more people who visit Ormond Beach choose to return to live for all or part of the year. Here’s where you can be close to all the action, but far enough away that at the end of the day it’s easy to retreat to your personal getaway and relax and unwind with friends, family members, and like-minded neighbors who share your same interests.

For nearly three decades, we’ve helped homeowners just like you find their forever home in and near Ormond Beach. We build in some of the most dynamic communities in the area, including Southern Pines, Westland Village, Il Villaggio, Halifax Plantation, Bulow Creek Preserve, and throughout the City of Palm Coast. Contact us today to get started on the high-quality custom home of which you’ve always dreamed.