US Highway 27 Historic District

US Highway 27 Historic District is a historic district located in Florida, United States, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The district spans from Miami to Tallahassee, passing through Lake Wales, Sebring, and Avon Park. It is known for its rich history, which is closely tied to the development of Florida's Turnpike, Everglades National Park, and the Indian River Lagoon. The district is also home to several notable landmarks, including the Bok Tower Gardens, Cirrus SR22, and the Lake Wales Museum.

● Overview

The US Highway 27 Historic District is a significant cultural and historical resource, with a diverse range of architectural styles, including Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and Streamline Moderne. The district is characterized by its unique blend of natural and built environments, with the Kissimmee River and Lake Okeechobee providing a scenic backdrop to the historic buildings and landscapes. The district is also notable for its association with famous figures, such as Henry Flagler, Julia Tuttle, and Harriet Beecher Stowe, who played important roles in the development of Florida and the United States. The district's history is also closely tied to the Seminole Wars, the Florida Land Boom, and the Great Depression.

● History

The history of the US Highway 27 Historic District dates back to the early 20th century, when US Highway 27 was first constructed, connecting Miami to Tallahassee and passing through the Florida Heartland. The district's development was influenced by the Florida East Coast Railway, the Seaboard Air Line Railroad, and the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, which played important roles in the growth of Florida's economy and population. The district is also notable for its association with the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Works Progress Administration, and the Federal Highway Administration, which contributed to the development of the district's infrastructure and architecture. The district's history is also closely tied to the World War II era, when Florida played an important role in the war effort, with the establishment of MacDill Air Force Base, Homestead Air Reserve Base, and the Key West Naval Air Station.

● Architecture

The architecture of the US Highway 27 Historic District is characterized by a diverse range of styles, including Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and Streamline Moderne. The district is home to several notable buildings, including the Bok Tower Gardens, designed by Milton B. Medary, and the Lake Wales Museum, designed by James Gamble Rogers II. The district's architecture is also influenced by the Prairie School style, which is evident in the design of buildings such as the Sebring Historic Downtown, and the Avon Park Historic District. The district's architecture is also notable for its use of local materials, such as coquina and pine wood, which were used in the construction of buildings such as the Clewiston Inn and the Moore Haven Inn.

● Preservation

The preservation of the US Highway 27 Historic District is a ongoing effort, with several organizations and agencies working to protect and conserve the district's historic resources. The National Park Service has played a significant role in the preservation of the district, with the establishment of the Big Cypress National Preserve, the Everglades National Park, and the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail. The Florida Department of State has also contributed to the preservation of the district, with the establishment of the Florida Historic Marker Program, and the Florida Historical Society. The district's preservation is also supported by local organizations, such as the Lake Wales Heritage Society, the Sebring Historical Society, and the Avon Park Historic Preservation Society.

● Geography

The US Highway 27 Historic District is located in central Florida, and spans across several counties, including Polk County, Highlands County, and Glades County. The district is situated in the Florida Heartland, which is characterized by a diverse range of natural environments, including the Kissimmee River, Lake Okeechobee, and the Everglades. The district's geography is also notable for its unique landscape features, such as the Lake Wales Ridge, and the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. The district is also home to several notable natural areas, including the Circle B Bar Reserve, the Lake Kissimmee State Park, and the Avon Park Air Force Range. The district's geography is also closely tied to the Florida Water Management Districts, which play an important role in the management of the state's water resources, including the South Florida Water Management District, and the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Category:Historic districts in Florida