About Jacksonville

Mix together historical landmarks, renovated old neighborhoods, skyscrapers and the ambiance of the Old south and you have a sophisticated thriving metropolis called Jacksonville. It is one of the oldest and largest cities in the United States. The St. Johns River is the nations longest north flowing river and it loops through the heart of Jacksonville. The sun beats down on the water and cast glimmering shadows against the tall glass skyscrapers. It is considered one the banking and insurance capitals of the South. Southern charm merging with advanced technology make this locale a place of intrigue.

Early Jacksonville

Farms and plantations covered the area near the St. Johns River referred Jacksonville Beach Cottage

to as "the cowford." Today this area is known as Bay and Liberty streets and they intersect in downtown Jacksonville. Isaiah D. Hart named the area Jacksonville after Andrew Jackson, the territories provisional governor. The first skyscraper was built in 1901 by Henry Klutho, it was a six-story wonder - the Dyal Upchurch Building. In 1831 after taking the office of president Andrew Jackson made the city a port of entry. The town survived the Civil War only to be defeated in 1888 by the yellow fever epidemic.

The city once again recovered but was struck another blow in 1901 when First Aid Building in Jacksonville fire destroyed most of the downtown area. Jacksonville and the spirit of renewal took hold and once again began to grow. By the end of World War Two with shipbuilding flourishing three naval stations were built bringing in major business's and an influx of people. In 1991 during the Gulf War, the busiest military port was Jacksonville. Today Jacksonville continues to grow and still sustains its charm and heritage and is known as "Florida's Business City."

Jacksonville Today

A concrete cable-stayed bridge nearly two miles long, supported by 21 miles of steel cable and rising 175 feet over the St. Johns River is the longest bridge of that Walking the Beach near Jacksonville

structure in the Western Hemisphere. Traversing under that masterpiece is the Annual Mug Race that runs 42 miles and is the longest river sailboat race.

Jacksonville's Downtown Area and Jacksonville's Beaches

The downtown waterfront area is a main focal point in Jacksonville. The Riverwalk is a 1.2 mile wooden boardwalk bordering the St. Johns River. It's a great place for a stroll, shopping, or just a resting on one of the numerous benches and watch the river boats cruising and the plentiful water fowl. Near the west end you will find The Friendship Fountain, with a diameter of 200 feet it is the largest self-contained Building on the Beach near Jacksonville

fountain. At night it is illuminated by 265 brightly colored lights. Also located in the area are memorials, museums and the Jacksonville Historical Society. Seafood fests, parties, parades and craft festivals all take place on the Riverwalk. Water taxis are available from the Riverwalk to the Jacksonville Landing.

The Jacksonville beaches are only 12 miles from the downtown area. At the beach you will find free parking, rolling sand dunes, concession stands, rental shops and a fishing pier.

The climate in Jacksonville is mild with December, January and February having the coolest temperatures. The average summer temperature is around 80 degrees. The average rainfall is 53 inches and much of that occurs during the summer months.