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Sanibel, Florida

Sanibel is an island and city in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 6,382 at the 2020 census, down from 6,469 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. The island, also known as Sanibel Island, constitutes the entire city. It is a barrier island—a collection of sand on the leeward side of the more solid coral-rock of Pine Island.

Most of the city proper is at the island's eastern end. After the Sanibel causeway was built to replace the ferry in 1963, the city was incorporated in 1974, and the residents asserted control over development by establishing the Sanibel Comprehensive Land Use Plan, helping maintain a balance between development and preservation of the island's ecology. In September 2022, the causeway was heavily damaged by Hurricane Ian.

Due to easy causeway access, Sanibel is a popular tourist destination known for its shell beaches and wildlife refuges. More than half the island is made up of wildlife refuges, the largest being J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The Island hosts the Sanibel Historical Village and a variety of other museums, including the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum.

History
Sanibel and Captiva formed as one island about 6,000 years ago. The first known humans in the area were the Calusa, who arrived about 2,500 years ago. The Calusa were a powerful Indian nation who came to dominate most of Southwest Florida through trade via their elaborate system of canals and waterways. Sanibel remained an important Calusa settlement until the collapse of their empire, soon after the arrival of the Europeans.

During the 1700s, Cuban fishermen seasonally traveled from their homes and set up fishing camps along the Gulf Coast, called ranchos, including on Sanibel Island.

In 1765, the first known appearance of a harbor on Sanibel is shown on a map as Puerto de S. Nibel (the "v" and "b" being interchangeable); thus, the name may have evolved from "San Nibel". Alternatively, the name may derive, as many believe, from "(Santa) Ybel", which survives in the old placename "Point Ybel", where the Sanibel Island Light is. How it would have gotten this name, however, is a matter of conjecture. One story says it was named by Juan Ponce de León for Queen Isabella I of Castile or the saint whose name she shares. Another attributes the name to Roderigo Lopez, the first mate of José Gaspar (Gasparilla), after his beautiful lover Sanibel whom he had left behind in Spain. But like most of the lore surrounding Gasparilla, this story is apocryphal, as the above references to recognizable variants of the name predate the buccaneer's supposed reign.

Sanibel is not the only island in the area to figure prominently in the legends of Gaspar; Captiva, Useppa, and Gasparilla are also connected. Sanibel also appears in another tale, involving Gaspar's ally-turned-rival Black Caesar, said to have been a former Haitian slave who escaped during the Haitian Revolution to become a pirate. According to folklore, Black Caesar came to the Gulf of Mexico during the War of 1812 to avoid interference from the British. In the Gulf he befriended Gasparilla, who allowed him to establish himself on Sanibel Island. Eventually the old Spaniard discovered Caesar had been stealing from him and chased him off, but not before his loot had been buried.

In 1832, the Florida Peninsular Land Company established a settlement on Sanibel (then spelled "Sanybel"), but the colony never took off, and was abandoned by 1849. It was this group that initially petitioned for a lighthouse on the island. The island was repopulated after the implementation of the Homestead Act in 1862, and again a lighthouse was petitioned. Construction of the Sanibel Island Lighthouse was completed in 1884, but the community remained small.

In May 1963, a causeway linking Sanibel and Captiva to the mainland opened, resulting in an explosion of growth. The City of Sanibel passed new restrictions on development after it was incorporated; developers challenged them to no avail. The island's only buildings taller than two stories predate 1974, and no fast food or chain restaurants are allowed on the island except for two that were there before the laws were enacted. A new causeway was completed in 2007; it replaced the worn-out 1963 spans, which were not designed to carry heavy loads or large numbers of vehicles. The new bridge features a "flyover" span tall enough for sailboats to pass under, replacing the old bridge's bascule drawbridge span. The original bridge was demolished and its remains were sunk into the water to create artificial reefs in the Gulf of Mexico.

Development
The main town is on the island's eastern end. The city was formed in 1974, as a direct result of the main causeway being built in 1963 to replace the ferry, and the rampant construction and development that followed. Developers sued over the new restrictions, but the city and citizens prevailed in their quest to protect the island. The only buildings above two to three stories on the island were built during that period.

A short bridge over Blind Pass links Sanibel to Captiva Island. More than half of the two islands are preserved in its natural state as wildlife refuges. Visitors can drive, walk, bike, or kayak through the J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge The island's most famous landmark, the Sanibel Lighthouse, is at its eastern end, adjacent to the fishing pier. The main thoroughfare, Periwinkle Way, is where most of Sanibel's stores and restaurants are, while the Gulf Drives (East, Middle and West) have most of the accommodations.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, a nonprofit organization, has been a key player in curbing commercial growth and development on the island. Since 1967, SCCF has been dedicated to preserving natural resources on and around Sanibel and Captiva and has led efforts to acquire and preserve environmentally sensitive land on the islands, including critical wildlife habitats, rare and unique subtropical plant communities, tidal wetlands, and freshwater wetlands along the Sanibel River.

The Wall Street Journal selected Sanibel and Captiva Islands as one of the 10 Best Places for Second Homes in 2010.

Geography
Sanibel is located at 26.43972°N, -82.08056°W (26.439608, –82.080456). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has an area of 33.16 sqmi, of which 17.21 sqmi is land and 15.96 sqmi (48.13%) is water.

Climate
Sanibel Island, in southern Florida, has a "tropical and humid" climate, with daily high temperatures ranging from 75 °F in midwinter to around 90 °F in the summer. The months of January through April (peak tourist season on the island) have the coolest temperatures, ranging from 75 °F during the day to a cool 55 °F at night, and there is very little rainfall on the island during those months. The island's summer heat and humidity, which has been recorded as high as 100 °F, is cooled by the seabreezes from the Gulf of Mexico, and by almost daily afternoon and evening rain showers, which are responsible for much of the island's rainfall. June is when the Island gets most of its rain. The area is prone to being hit by tropical cyclones and hurricanes; the hurricane season starts in June, but most of the activity occurs in September and October. Local communities have "adapted to cope with these occasional storm threats."

Hurricanes
Southwest Florida rarely suffers direct strikes by hurricanes, but every 20 or so years it takes a significant hit, and about every 40 years a major one. Most of these have affected Sanibel. On August 13, 2004, it was hit hard by Hurricane Charley, a category four hurricane with 143 mi/h winds. It was the strongest to hit Southwest Florida since Hurricane Donna in September 1960. While much of the native vegetation survived, the non-indigenous Australian Pines suffered serious damage, blocking nearly every road. Wildlife officials reported that the nests of birds and sea turtles were destroyed. The Sanibel Lighthouse suffered little damage, the Sanibel Causeway suffered relatively minor damage except for a tollbooth being tilted partly over, and a small seawall was eroded. Blind Pass was again cut through, but it refilled less than a month later. Residents who left before the August 13 storm were not allowed back by the city government until August 18, due to hundreds of downed trees and electric power lines, and the lack of potable water and sanitary sewerage. A temporary city hall for Sanibel was set up in a Fort Myers hotel until utilities and transport could be restored to the island.

On September 28, 2022, the island suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Ian, which made landfall just to the north of the island as a strong category 4 storm. The Sanibel Causeway partially collapsed during the storm, leaving no road access to the island or nearby Captiva, Florida.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 6,382 people, 3,919 households, and 2,766 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 6,469 people, 3,526 households, and 2,322 families residing in the city.

In 2010, the population density was 375.9 PD/sqmi. There were 7,821 dwelling units at an average density of 454.6 /sqmi.

In 2010, there were 3,526 households, out of which 8.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.8% were married couples living together, 2.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.3% were non-families. 27.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.92 and the average family size was 2.28.

Among the population in 2010, 8.5% under the age of 19, 1.1% from 20 to 24, 7.5% from 25 to 44, 32.7% from 45 to 64, and those aged 65 or older represented 50.1%. The median age was 65 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.5 males age 18 and over.

In 2010, the median income for a household in the city was $97,788, and the median income for a family was $138,194. Males had a median income of $80,152 versus $45,458 for females. The per capita income for the city was $79,742. About 3.6% of families and 7.0% of the population were below the poverty line, with 21.3% of those under age 18 and 3.4% of those age 65 or over.

Flora and fauna
The island's curved shrimp-like shape forms Tarpon Bay on the north side of the island. It is linked to the mainland by the Sanibel Causeway, which runs across two small manmade islets and the Intracoastal Waterway. A short bridge links Sanibel Island to Captiva Island over Blind Pass. The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum on Sanibel is the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to the study of shells. The Gulf-side beaches are excellent on both Sanibel and Captiva, and are world-renowned for their variety of seashells, which include coquinas, scallops, whelks, sand dollars, and many other species of both shallow-water and deeper-water mollusks, primarily bivalves and gastropods. Sanibel Island is home to a significant variety of birds, including the roseate spoonbill and several nesting pairs of bald eagles. Birds can be seen on the beaches, the causeway islands, and the reserves, including J. N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Common sights include pelicans, herons, egrets, and anhingas, as well as the more common birds like terns, sandpipers, and seagulls.

There is a population of American alligators on Sanibel Island. A lone rare American crocodile had been seen at the Wildlife Refuge for over 30 years, but she died in 2010 of unseasonably cold winters or old age. A memorial was set up at J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge honoring "Wilma", as she was known by the residents. A new crocodile was introduced in May 2010 when she was found on a private property and relocated to J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Plants on the island include the native sea grape, sea oats, mangroves, and several types of palm trees. The Australian pine is an introduced species that has spread throughout the island, to some extent overpowering native vegetation and trees. Once mature, the pine blocks sunlight and drops a thick bed of pine needles that affect the soil's pH and prevents new native growth. The ground is very soft under these pines.

The local form of the marsh rice rat has been recognized in some classifications as a separate subspecies, Oryzomys palustris sanibeli.

Wildlife refuges
Preserving the island's natural ecology has always been important to its citizens and visitors alike. A driving force in the preservation of the island is the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation which was founded in 1967 with a mission to "preserve natural resources and wildlife habitat on and around the islands of Sanibel and Captiva." 1300 acre of land on Sanibel are under the supervision of the Foundation; included in this land there is a "Marine Laboratory which actively conducts research in areas including seagrasses, mangroves, harmful algal blooms, fish populations and shellfish restoration." Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation also has a project called RECON (River, Estuary and Coastal Observing Network) which includes a "network of eight in-water sensors that provide real-time, hourly readings of key water quality parameters." The foundation also serves to protect the wildlife on the island and has a variety of education programs designed to instruct people about the island's unique ecology.

The biggest wildlife refuge on the island is the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Covering more than 5200 acre of land, the refuge strives to ensure that these lands are "preserved, restored and maintained as a haven for indigenous and migratory wildlife as part of a nation-wide network of Refuges administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service" The lands also serve to provide a home for many endangered and threatened species. Currently the refuge provides a home for over 220 species of birds native to the island. Visitors to the refuge can walk, bike, drive, or kayak though the wildlife drive which takes you through 5 mi of mangrove tree forests and tidal flats, this drive is perfect for watching the island's wildlife and looking at the island's native vegetation. To show that preserving the wildlife really is important, the drive is closed one day every week, Friday, so that the wildlife can have a day to themselves where they can scavenge for food closer to the drive and not have to be bothered by or fearful of humans. There is also an education center which features "interactive exhibits on refuge ecosystems, the life and work of "Ding" Darling, migratory flyways, and the National Wildlife Refuge System."

Beaches and seashells
Sanibel's beaches attract visitors from all around the world, partly because of the large quantities of seashells that wash up there. Many sand dollars can be found as well. One of the reasons for these large accumulations of shells is that Sanibel is a barrier island that is "part of a large plateau that extends out into the Gulf of Mexico for miles. It is this plateau that acts like a shelf for seashells to gather." Sanibel also has an "east-west orientation when most islands are north-south. Hence, the island is gifted with great sandy beaches and an abundance of shells."

People lucky enough to find the elegant brown-spotted shell of a Junonia on a Sanibel beach often get their picture in the local newspapers. Junonia volutes are reasonably common living in deep water but only rarely wash up; a beach find of a whole shell is greatly prized. Junonia shells can be purchased at local shell shops and are displayed at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, in some of the glass display tables at the Sanibel Cafe, and at the Sanibel Shell Fair in early March.

Throughout the year, people come to Sanibel's beaches to gather shells. People are often seen bending down as they look for seashells, and this posture is known as the "Sanibel Stoop." There are beaches almost all around the island. There are even beaches along the Sanibel causeway that are great for fishing and windsurfing. Beach parking is very limited, and in high season finding a convenient parking space can be a challenge.

Lighthouse Beach is named after Sanibel Lighthouse, which includes a popular fishing pier and nature trails. The island's most secluded beach is Bowman's Beach; no hotels are in sight and the beach has a "pristine and quiet" atmosphere.

Transportation
A new three-section causeway bridge to Sanibel was completed in 2007, with a high-span section replacing the original drawbridge. Many sections of the causeway were destroyed in September 2022 by Hurricane Ian, rendering it unusable.

Library
Sanibel Public Library was built in 1994 and expanded in 2004. It has more than 60,000 titles.

Notable people
The city's best-known resident is former CIA Director Porter Goss, who spearheaded the island's incorporation, became its first mayor, and represented the area in Congress from 1989 until his appointment as CIA Director in 2004.

Other notable people who reside or used to reside on Sanibel include:
 * R. Tucker Abbott, leading 20th century malacologist/conchologist
 * Horace William Baden Donegan, Bishop of New York, Episcopal Church in the United States of America
 * Clifton Fadiman, author and radio/TV personality
 * Helaine Fendelman, appraiser
 * Jean Shepherd, author, screenwriter and radio raconteur
 * Willard Scott, TV personality
 * Randy Wayne White, writer of crime fiction and nonfiction adventure tales

In literature
Sanibel Island is the main setting for crime novels by local author Randy Wayne White. Popular locales are referenced throughout his novels. White's main fictional character is Doc Ford and due to his popularity, White opened a restaurant called Doc Ford's Sanibel Rum Bar & Grill. Sanibel Island is the setting in the prologue of the book People We Meet on Vacation.

In film
Parts of George A. Romero's Day of the Dead were shot on Sanibel Island. Romero had a second home on Sanibel, where he rewrote Day of the Dead in 1984.

Night Moves was filmed on the Island in 1975, directed by Arthur Penn. It stars Gene Hackman, Jennifer Warren, Susan Clark and features early career appearances by James Woods and Melanie Griffith.

title: Sanibel, Florida


text:
St. James City, Florida

St. James City is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) on Pine Island in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 3,876 at the 2020 census, up from 3,784 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
The St. James City CDP occupies the southern half of Pine Island, with the town center situated at the southern end of the island. The community is bordered by San Carlos Bay to the south, by Pine Island Sound to the west, by San Carlos Bay, Matlacha Pass, and Pine Island Creek to the east, and by the community of Pine Island Center to the north. Stringfellow Road (County Road 767) is the main road in the community, running north–south along the center of the island. By road it is 17 mi to the middle of Cape Coral and 26 mi to downtown Fort Myers, the Lee county seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the St. James City CDP has a total area of 43.2 km2, of which 37.8 km2 are land and 5.4 km2, or 12.45%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,105 people, 2,138 households, and 1,417 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 281.1 PD/sqmi. There were 2,921 housing units at an average density of 200.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 98.95% White, 0.10% African American, 0.15% Native American, 0.27% Asian, 0.15% from other races, and 0.39% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.76% of the population.

There were 2,138 households, out of which 7.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.4% were married couples living together, 2.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.7% were non-families. 28.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.92 and the average family size was 2.28.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 7.1% under the age of 18, 1.7% from 18 to 24, 10.8% from 25 to 44, 35.4% from 45 to 64, and 45.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 63 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.8 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $35,746, and the median income for a family was $42,176. Males had a median income of $34,120 versus $22,179 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $26,520. About 1.5% of families and 4.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.0% of those under age 18 and 3.8% of those age 65 or over.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: St. James City, Florida


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Suncoast Estates, Florida

Suncoast Estates is a census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 4,097 at the 2020 census, down from 4,384 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Suncoast Estates is in northern Lee County and is nearly surrounded by unincorporated North Fort Myers. It is 6 mi north of Fort Myers, the Lee county seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 7.08 sqkm, of which 7.05 sqkm are land and 0.03 sqkm, or 0.42%, are water. The area drains south to the Caloosahatchee River.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,867 people, 1,815 households, and 1,196 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,810.9 PD/sqmi. There were 2,107 housing units at an average density of 784.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 95.17% White, 0.64% African American, 0.84% Native American, 0.23% Asian, 1.95% from other races, and 1.17% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.86% of the population.

There were 1,815 households, out of which 32.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.6% were married couples living together, 15.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.1% were non-families. 24.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.68 and the average family size was 3.15.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 28.6% under the age of 18, 7.6% from 18 to 24, 30.9% from 25 to 44, 21.0% from 45 to 64, and 11.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 108.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 107.3 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $26,510, and the median income for a family was $27,892. Males had a median income of $25,258 versus $15,570 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $11,581. About 21.7% of families and 23.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 28.4% of those under age 18 and 12.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Suncoast Estates, Florida


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Three Oaks, Florida

Three Oaks is a census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 5,472 at the 2020 census, up from 3,592 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Three Oaks is located in south-central Lee County at 26.46778°N, -81.79583°W (26.467908, -81.795768). It is bordered to the south by the village of Estero and to the west by the San Carlos Park census-designated place. Interstate 75 forms the eastern border of the Three Oaks CDP, with access from Exit 128 (Alico Road) at the northeast corner of the CDP. I-75 leads north 10 mi to the eastern side of Fort Myers and south 22 mi to the Naples area.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Three Oaks CDP has a total area of 4.3 km2, of which 4.2 sqkm are land and 0.12 sqkm, or 2.77%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,255 people, 749 households, and 650 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,739.5 PD/sqmi. There were 789 housing units at an average density of 608.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.10% White, 0.27% African American, 0.18% Native American, 1.37% Asian, 1.37% from other races, and 0.71% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.26% of the population.

There were 749 households, out of which 52.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 77.0% were married couples living together, 7.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 13.2% were non-families. 10.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 3.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.01 and the average family size was 3.23.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 33.6% under the age of 18, 3.6% from 18 to 24, 32.1% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 8.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.0 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $69,911, and the median income for a family was $74,286. Males had a median income of $50,250 versus $30,217 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $23,997. About 1.0% of families and 1.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.5% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

title: Three Oaks, Florida


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Tice, Florida

Tice is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. As of the 2020 census, the CDP population was 4,853. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Tice is in north-central Lee County at 26.67472°N, -81.8175°W (26.674815, -81.817565). It is bordered to the south and west by the city of Fort Myers, the county seat. Its northern edge is the Caloosahatchee River.

Florida State Road 80 (Palm Beach Boulevard) is the main road through the community, leading northeast 1 mi to Interstate 75 and southwest 4 mi to the center of Fort Myers. Going farther east, SR 80 leads 25 mi to LaBelle and 57 mi to Clewiston near Lake Okeechobee.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Tice CDP has a total area of 3.2 km2, of which 2.8 km2 are land and 0.4 km2, or 12.31%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,538 people, 1,556 households, and 1,026 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 3,979.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,789 housing units at an average density of 1,568.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 49.83% Hispanic, 37.07% African American, 11.25% Non-Hispanic White, 0.66% Native American, 1.06% Asian, 0.13% Pacific Islander, 2.08% from other races, and 4.36% from two or more races.

There were 1,556 households, out of which 33.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.0% were married couples living together, 16.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.0% were non-families. 24.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.92 and the average family size was 3.40.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 29.5% under the age of 18, 10.8% from 18 to 24, 29.9% from 25 to 44, 18.7% from 45 to 64, and 11.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 111.4 males. For every 100 females aged 18 and over, there were 114.7 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $25,453, and the median income for a family was $26,885. Males had a median income of $21,900 versus $18,214 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $12,206. About 28.2% of families and 33.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 44.5% of those under age 18 and 26.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Tice, Florida


text:
Villas, Florida

Villas, Florida is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 12,687 at the 2020 census, up from 11,569 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Villas is located in central Lee County at 26.555°N, -81.86917°W (26.555003, -81.869036). It is an unincorporated community, bordered to the north by Page Park and Pine Manor and to the west by Whiskey Creek and Cypress Lake, all unincorporated as well. U.S. Route 41 passes through Villas, leading north 6 mi to the center of Fort Myers, the Lee county seat, and south 9 mi to Estero.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Villas CDP has a total area of 12.6 km2, of which 12.0 km2 are land and 0.6 km2, or 4.61%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 11,346 people, 5,682 households, and 2,909 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 2,421.0 PD/sqmi. There were 6,574 housing units at an average density of 1,402.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 94.23% White, 1.65% African American, 0.17% Native American, 1.17% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 1.33% from other races, and 1.41% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.59% of the population.

There were 5,682 households, out of which 15.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.4% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.8% were non-families. 38.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.94 and the average family size was 2.56.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 13.6% under the age of 18, 7.7% from 18 to 24, 28.2% from 25 to 44, 21.2% from 45 to 64, and 29.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 45 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.4 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $40,483, and the median income for a family was $49,975. Males had a median income of $31,517 versus $25,782 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $25,880. About 3.5% of families and 6.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.9% of those under age 18 and 7.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Villas, Florida


text:
Whiskey Creek, Florida

Whiskey Creek is a census-designated place (CDP) in Lee County, Florida, United States. The population was 4,842 at the 2020 census, up from 4,655 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Whiskey Creek is located in central Lee County at 26.5775°N, -81.88972°W (26.577502, -81.889836). It is bordered to the north by the city of Fort Myers, the Lee county seat. To the west it is bordered by the Caloosahatchee River and by a small tributary, Whiskey Creek, for which the community is named. To the west across Whiskey Creek is the CDP of McGregor, while to the south is Cypress Lake and to the east are Villas, Pine Manor, and a southern extension of Fort Myers.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Whiskey Creek CDP has a total area of 4.2 km2, of which 4.0 sqkm are land and 0.2 sqkm, or 4.50%, are water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,806 people, 2,199 households, and 1,517 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 3,002.1 PD/sqmi. There were 2,374 housing units at an average density of 1,482.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.57% White, 0.96% African American, 0.08% Native American, 0.71% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.44% from other races, and 1.23% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.29% of the population.

There were 2,199 households, out of which 19.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.1% were married couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.0% were non-families. 26.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.19 and the average family size was 2.62.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 17.0% under the age of 18, 3.1% from 18 to 24, 19.0% from 25 to 44, 27.8% from 45 to 64, and 33.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 53 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.5 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $52,068, and the median income for a family was $60,383. Males had a median income of $40,911 versus $30,094 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $29,304. About 1.7% of families and 2.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 1.3% of those under age 18 and 2.4% of those age 65 or over.

title: Whiskey Creek, Florida


text:
Woodville, Florida

Woodville is a census-designated place in Leon County, Florida, United States, just south of Tallahassee, Florida. The population was 4,097 at the 2020 census, up from 2,978 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Tallahassee, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. The American Civil War Battle of Natural Bridge, in March 1865, occurred in what is now Woodville, at the Natural Bridge (approximately six miles from Woodville proper). This is where the St. Marks River drops into a sinkhole, the Natural Bridge Sink and flows underground, reemerging .25 mi later.

Geography
Woodville is located at 30.3075°N, -84.25222°W (30.307453, -84.252215).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 6.4 sqmi, all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 4,097 people, 1,475 households, and 1,106 families residing in the CDP.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,006 people, 1,182 households, and 855 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 427.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,278 housing units at an average density of 198.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 79.34% White, 18.30% African American, 0.70% Native American, 0.13% Asian, 0.27% from other races, and 1.26% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.00% of the population.

There were 1,182 households, out of which 32.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.7% were married couples living together, 15.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.6% were non-families. 21.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.54 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 25.1% under the age of 18, 8.8% from 18 to 24, 29.2% from 25 to 44, 26.3% from 45 to 64, and 10.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.0 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $38,946, and the median income for a family was $42,026. Males had a median income of $26,495 versus $27,237 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $19,915. About 6.2% of families and 10.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 19.0% of those under age 18 and 2.8% of those age 65 or over.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Woodville has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

title: Woodville, Florida


text:
Andrews, Levy County, Florida

Andrews is a census-designated place (CDP) in Levy County, Florida, United States. The population was 837 at the 2020 census, up from 798 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Andrews is located in northwestern Levy County at 29.53194°N, -82.88528°W (29.531873, -82.885215). It is bordered to the south by Chiefland and to the northwest by Fanning Springs. U.S. Routes 19, 98 and 27 Alt pass through Andrews as a four-lane highway, connecting Chiefland and Fanning Springs. The Andrews Wildlife Management Area is located west of the community.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Andrews CDP has a total area of 14.0 sqkm, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 708 people, 294 households, and 204 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 103.7 PD/sqmi. There were 345 housing units at an average density of 50.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 97.32% White, 1.27% African American, 0.71% Native American, 0.42% from other races, and 0.28% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.26% of the population.

There were 294 households, out of which 26.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.4% were married couples living together, 7.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.3% were non-families. 24.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.77.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 22.0% under the age of 18, 6.5% from 18 to 24, 28.2% from 25 to 44, 26.8% from 45 to 64, and 16.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.1 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $26,554, and the median income for a family was $29,279. Males had a median income of $28,281 versus $20,588 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $12,186. About 13.7% of families and 18.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 23.4% of those under age 18 and 23.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Andrews, Levy County, Florida


text:
Bronson, Florida

Bronson is a town and the county seat of Levy County, Florida, United States. The population was 1,140 at the 2020 census, up from 1,113 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Bronson began as a settlement in 1839 and was named after a territorial judge from 1802, Judge Isaac Bronson. Bronson was originally known as “Chunky Pond” after the Native American name, “Chuckahaha.”

Despite being settled in the early 19th century, it didn't become officially incorporated as the Town of Bronson until the mid-20th century, in 1951.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the Town of Bronson is located at 29.44889°N, -82.63639°W (29.448784, –82.636314).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 11.0 sqkm, of which 10.8 sqkm is land and 0.2 sqkm, or 2.10%, is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the City of Bronson has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,140 people, 450 households, and 278 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 1,113 people, 507 households, and 356 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 964 people, 370 households, and 256 families residing in the town. The population density was 244.1 PD/sqmi. There were 431 housing units at an average density of 109.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 66.39% White, 29.15% African American, 1.45% Native American, 0.10% Asian, 2.07% from other races, and 0.83% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 8.09% of the population.

In 2000, there were 370 households, out of which 34.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.7% were married couples living together, 22.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.8% were non-families. 25.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.16.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 29.1% under the age of 18, 12.0% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 22.6% from 45 to 64, and 11.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 81.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 76.5 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $26,944, and the median income for a family was $28,462. Males had a median income of $27,969 versus $20,385 for females. The per capita income for the town was $12,532. About 21.9% of families and 27.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 36.5% of those under age 18 and 21.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
School Board of Levy County operates public schools. Bronson has two public schools: Bronson Middle/High School and Bronson Elementary. The School Board of Levy County controls their operation and also supervises two charter schools: Nature Coast Middle School and Whispering Winds. Other schools under the board's jurisdiction are in the city of Chiefland, the city of Williston, the city of Cedar Key, and the town of Yankeetown.

Library
Levy County provides Bronson with a local library branch. The Bronson Public Library was built by the Felburn Foundation founder; J. Phil Felburn. The Levy County Public Library System is a member of PAL (Putnam, Alachua and Levy County Public Library Cooperative).

title: Bronson, Florida


text:
Cedar Key, Florida

Cedar Key is a city in Levy County, Florida, United States. As of the 2020 census, its population was 687, down from 702 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. The Cedar Keys are a cluster of islands near the mainland. Most of the developed area for the City of Cedar Key has been on Way Key since the end of the 19th century. The Cedar Keys are named for the eastern red cedar Juniperus virginiana, once abundant in the area.

Early
While evidence suggests human occupation as far back as 500 BC, the first maps of the area date to 1542, when a cartographer from Spain labeled it "Las Islas Sabines" (which means "The Cedar Keys" in Spanish). An archaeological dig at Shell Mound, 9 mi north of Cedar Key, found artifacts dating back to 500 BC in the top 10 ft of the 28 ft mound. The only ancient burial found in Cedar Key was a 2,000-year-old skeleton found in 1999. Arrow heads and spear points dating from the Paleo period (12,000 years old) were collected by Cedar Key historian St. Clair Whitman, and are displayed at the Cedar Key Museum State Park.

Followers of William Augustus Bowles, self-declared "Director General of the State of Muskogee", built a watchtower in the vicinity of Cedar Key in 1801. The tower was destroyed by a Spanish force in 1802. In the period leading up to the First Seminole War, the British subjects Alexander Arbuthnot and Robert Ambrister used the Cedar Keys to deliver supplies to the Seminoles. The Cedar Keys may have been a refuge for escaped slaves in the early 1820s, and an entry point for the illegal slave trade later that decade.

Indian War
During the Second Seminole War, the United States Army established Fort No. 4 on the mainland adjacent to the Cedar Keys. (The name "No. 4" was later applied to a boat channel next to the fort, and then to a railroad trestle and a highway bridge over that channel.) In 1840, General Zachary Taylor requested the Cedar Keys be reserved for military use for the duration of the war, and that Seahorse Key be permanently reserved for a lighthouse. In 1840, General Walker Keith Armistead, who had succeeded Zachary Taylor as commander of United States troops in the war, ordered construction of a hospital on what had become known as Depot Key. (The island's name may reflect the establishment of a depot there by Florida militia general Leigh Read. The primary depot for the U.S. Army in Florida at the time was at Palatka, Florida.) Depot Key was the headquarters for the Army in Florida, but Fishburne states headquarters was not in a fixed place, but wherever the commander was.

Cantonment Morgan was established on nearby Seahorse Key by 1841 and used as a troop deployment station and as a holding station for Seminoles who had been captured or who had surrendered until they could be sent to the West. A hurricane with a 27 ft storm surge struck the Cedar Keys on October 4, 1842, destroying Cantonment Morgan and causing much damage on Depot Key. Some Seminole leaders had been meeting with Army officers at Depot Key to negotiate their surrender or a retreat to a reservation in the Everglades. After the hurricane, the Seminoles refused to return to the area. Colonel William J. Worth had declared the war to be over in August 1842, and Depot Key was abandoned by the Army after the hurricane.

Pre-Civil War
In 1842, the United States Congress had enacted the Armed Occupation Act, a precursor of the Homestead Act, to increase white settlement in Florida as a way to force the Seminoles to leave the territory. With the abandonment of the Army base on Depot Key, the Cedar Keys became available for settlement under the act. Under the terms of the act, several people received permits for settlement on Depot Key, Way Key, and Scale Key. Augustus Steele, US Customs House Officer for Hillsborough County, Florida, and postmaster for the Tampa Bay area, received the permit for Depot Key, which he renamed Atsena Otie Key. In 1843, he bought the buildings on the island, and built some cottages for wealthy guests. In 1844, he became the Collector of Customs for the port of Cedar Key, as well as for Tampa, Florida. A post office named "Cedar Key" was established on Atsena Otie Key in 1845. The Florida legislature chartered the "City of Atsena Otie" in 1859.

Cedar Key became an important port, shipping lumber and naval stores harvested on the mainland. By 1860, two mills on Atsena Otie Key were producing "cedar" slats for shipment to northern pencil factories. As a result of the growth, the US Congress appropriated funds for a lighthouse on Seahorse Key in 1850. The Cedar Key Light was completed in 1854. The lighthouse lantern is 28 ft above the ground, but the lighthouse sits on a 47 ft hill, putting the light 75 ft above sea level. The light was visible for 16 mi. Wood-frame residences were added to each side of the lighthouse several years later.

In 1860, Cedar Key became the western terminus of the Florida Railroad, connecting it to Fernandina Beach, Florida on the east coast of Florida. David Levy Yulee, U.S. senator and president of the Florida Railroad, had acquired most of Way Key to house the railroad's terminal facilities. A town was platted on Way Key in 1859, and Parsons and Hale's General Store, which is now the Island Hotel, was built there in the same year. On March 1, 1861, the first train arrived in Cedar Key, just weeks before the Civil War began.

Civil War era
With the advent of the American Civil War in 1861, Confederate agents extinguished the light at Seahorse Key and removed its supply of sperm whale oil. The defense of Cedar Key was assigned to the Columbia and New River Rifles, two companies of the 4th Florida Infantry Regiment, under the command of Lt. Colonel M. Whit Smith. On July 3, 1861, four Federal war prize schooners appeared off Cedar Key. The schooners, originally captured by the USS Massachusetts off New Orleans, were under the command of U. S. Navy Lieutenant George L. Selden, nephew of former Treasurer of the United States William Selden, and manned by nineteen sailors. Col. Smith led his two rifle companies along with one six-pounder cannon twenty miles offshore on the steamer Madison and captured the schooners after firing two warning shots. With the recovery, Col. Smith and his men liberated fifteen Confederate sailors, recovered the vessels' valuable cargo of railroad iron and turpentine and effected the first capture of a U. S. Naval officer at sea during the war.

The USS Hatteras raided Cedar Key in January 1862, burning several ships loaded with cotton and turpentine and destroying the railroad's rolling stock and buildings on Way Key. Most of the Confederate troops guarding Cedar Key had been sent to Fernandina in anticipation of a Federal attack there. Cedar Key was an important source of salt for the Confederacy during the early part of the war. In October 1862, a Union raid destroyed sixty kettles on Salt Key capable of producing 150 bushels of salt a day. The Union occupied the Cedar Keys in early 1864, staying for the remainder of the war.

In 1865, the Eberhard Faber mill was built on Atsena Otie Key. The Eagle Pencil Company mill was built on Way Key, and Way Key, with its railroad terminal, surpassed Atsena Otie Key in population. Repairs to the Florida Railroad were completed in 1868, and freight and passenger traffic again flowed into Cedar Key. The "Town of Cedar Keys" was incorporated in 1869, and had a population of 400 in 1870.

Early in his career as a naturalist, John Muir walked 1000 mi from Louisville, Kentucky, to Cedar Key in just two months in 1867. Muir contracted malaria while working in a sawmill in Cedar Key, and recovered in the house of the mill's superintendent. Muir recovered enough to sail from Cedar Key to Cuba in January 1868. He recorded his impressions of Cedar Key in his memoir A Thousand-Mile Walk to the Gulf, published in 1916, after his death.

Decline and restoration of wildlife
When Henry Plant's railroad to Tampa began service in 1886, Tampa took shipping away from Cedar Key, causing an economic decline in the area. Earlier, growth in population had led to the Cedar Key town limits being expanded in 1881 and again in 1884. But with the decline in the local economy, the town limits were contracted in 1890. Also in 1890, the island town was affected by the reign of terror of Cedar Keys mayor William Cottrell, who took advantage of his Florida state legislature connections and the restricted one-way road access to impose his will and conduct acts of violence. He was deposed from power only after the island was invaded by a naval (U.S. Coast Guard) boat manned with a squad of U.S. Marshals, who were sent there after Custom House officers and other federal government workers requested federal aid due to being unable to discharge their duties on the islands.

The 1896 Cedar Keys hurricane was the final blow. Around 4 am on September 29, 1896, a 10 ft storm surge swept over the town, killing more than 100 people. Winds north of town were estimated at 125 mph, which would classify it as a category 3. The hurricane wiped out the juniper trees still standing and destroyed all the mills. A fire on December 2, 1896, further damaged the town. In following years, structures were rebuilt on Way Key, a more protected island inland, but the damage was done. Today, only a few reminders of the original town on Atsena Otie Key remain, including stone water cisterns, and a graveyard whose headstones conspicuously date prior to 1896. Also, many of the eastern red cedar trees that originally attracted the pencil company, and for which the community was named, are gone.

At the start of the 20th century, fishing, sponge hooking, and oystering had become the major industries, but around 1909, the oyster beds were exhausted. President Herbert Hoover established the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge in 1929 by naming three of the islands as a breeding ground for colonial birds. The lighthouse was abandoned in 1952, just as the tourism industry began to grow as a result of interest in the historic community, but it remains in use as a marine biology research center by the University of Florida in Gainesville.

Present
The old-fashioned fishing village is now a tourist center with several regionally famous seafood restaurants. The village holds two festivals a year, the Spring Sidewalk Art Festival and the Fall Seafood Festival, that each attract thousands of visitors to the area.

In 1950, Hurricane Easy, a category-3 storm with 125 mph winds, looped around Cedar Key three times before finally making landfall, dumping 38 in of rain and destroying two-thirds of the homes. The storm came ashore at low tide, so the surge was only 5 ft.

Hurricane Elena followed a similar path in 1985, but did not make landfall. Packing 115 mph winds, the storm churned for two days in the Gulf, 50 mi to the west, battering the waterfront. All the businesses and restaurants on Dock Street were either damaged or destroyed, and a section of the seawall collapsed.

After a statewide ban on large-scale net fishing went into effect July 1, 1995, a government retraining program helped many local fishermen begin farming clams in the muddy waters. Today, Cedar Key's clam-based aquaculture is a multimillion-dollar industry.

A local museum exhibit displays a reproduction of one of the first air conditioning installations. The system, with compressor and fans, was used in Cedar Key to ease the lot of malaria patients.

Cedar Key is home to the George T. Lewis Airport (CDK).

Hurricane Eta made one of its two landfalls in Florida at about 4 a.m. Thursday, November 10, 2020, near Cedar Key, as a tropical storm.

On August 30, 2023, Hurricane Idalia, a category-3 storm caused significant damage to Cedar Key as it headed towards the Big Bend of Florida. Although, not a direct hit, heavy rains, winds, and storm surge levels reaching a record 6.8 feet (2.1 m), and the storm surge water level was at 8.9 feet (2.7 m).

National historic status
Cedar Key's importance in Florida's history, which began as far back as 1000 BC with pre-Columbian habitation of the region, was recognized on October 3, 1989, by the federal government. At that time, 8,000 acre in and around the town were added to the National Register of Historic Places under the title of the Cedar Keys Historic and Archaeological District.

The Cedar Key Museum State Park depicts the town's 19th century history and displays sea shells and Indian artifacts from the collection of Saint Clair Whitman. Tours of Whitman's restored 1920s house are available during museum hours. As the museum photo indicates, the building was constructed to withstand the hurricane conditions that the town is subjected to periodically.

The naturalist John Muir visited Cedar Key in 1867 on his historic walk from Kentucky to Florida. He wrote: "For nineteen years my vision was bounded by forests, but today, emerging from a multitude of tropical plants, I beheld the Gulf of Mexico stretching away unbounded, except by the sky. What dreams and speculative matter for thought arose as I stood on the strand, gazing out on the burnished, treeless plain!" The John Muir historic marker was placed on the museum grounds in 1983, commemorating his visit.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the City of Cedar Key is located at 29.14556°N, -83.04154°W.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.5 km2, of which 2.5 km2 is land and 3.0 km2, or 54.28%, is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the City of Cedar Key has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 687 people, 316 households, and 218 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 702 people, 253 households, and 150 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 790 people, 411 households, and 244 families residing in the city. The population density was 864.7 PD/sqmi. There were 686 housing units at an average density of 750.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.47% White, 0.13% African American, 0.63% Native American, 0.25% Asian, 0.51% from other races, and 1.01% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.52% of the population.

In 2000, there were 411 households, out of which 14.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.7% were married couples living together, 8.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.4% were non-families. 34.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.92 and the average family size was 2.42.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 13.2% under the age of 18, 4.8% from 18 to 24, 15.6% from 25 to 44, 40.1% from 45 to 64, and 26.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 54 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.2 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $32,232, and the median income for a family was $41,190. Males had a median income of $27,375 versus $31,806 for females. The per capita income for the city was $22,568. About 6.6% of families and 11.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.5% of those under age 18 and 9.9% of those age 65 or over.

Education
School Board of Levy County operates a K–12 school, Cedar Key School.

Library
Levy County provides Cedar Key with a local library branch. The Cedar Key Public Library is in the renovated, historic Schlemmer Rooming House.

Notable people

 * W. Randolph Hodges - former President of the Florida Senate
 * Gene Hodges - former member of the Florida House of Representatives

title: Cedar Key, Florida


text:
Chiefland, Florida

Chiefland is a city in Levy County, Florida, United States. The population was 2,316 at the 2020 census, up from 2,245 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. Chiefland calls itself "The Gem of the Suwannee Valley" and was incorporated in 1913.

History
A village of the Timucua people was once located south of the present city and at Manatee Springs. The area's economy is traditionally based on agriculture, primarily farming (peanuts, watermelons, hay); ranching (cattle, hogs); dairy (milk); timber (pulpwood, lumber, turpentine) and aquaculture (fishing, oystering, crabbing).

In July 1927, a Black man named Albert Williams was shot and then lynched by a mob. He had allegedly assaulted a white turpentine operator over a debt he owed the white man, and "was shot to death by a mob".

Geography
The exact coordinates for the City of Chiefland is located at 29.48167°N, -82.86222°W (29.481801, –82.862097).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 16.1 sqmi, all land.

Chiefland is at the junction of U.S. Highways Alternate 27, 19, and 98. US 129 was converted into a separate junction in the early 21st century. It is 30 mi southwest of Gainesville.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the City of Chiefland has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 2,316 people, 905 households, and 564 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 2,245 people, 948 households, and 598 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,993 people, 796 households, and 511 families residing in the city. The population density was 509.5 PD/sqmi. There were 931 housing units at an average density of 238.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 60.36% White, 34.27% African American, 0.65% Native American, 1.66% Asian, 0.10% Pacific Islander, 0.65% from other races, and 2.31% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.76% of the population.

In 2000, there were 796 households out of which 35.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 36.1% were married couples living together, 23.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.8% were non-families. 32.2% of all households were made up of individuals and 15.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 3.05.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 31.3% under the age of 18, 9.0% from 18 to 24, 22.8% from 25 to 44, 20.0% from 45 to 64, and 16.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 79.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 71.3 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $17,331, and the median income for a family was $23,750. Males had a median income of $25,000 versus $19,792 for females. The per capita income for the city was $10,676. About 33.3% of families and 36.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 46.0% of those under the age of 18 and 24.4% of those aged 65 or over.

Attractions
Manatee Springs State Park is located 6 mi west of town; the crystal-clear water is a "first-magnitude" spring that flows directly into the Suwannee River. The park offers a full slate of activities, including camping. Manatees can be seen in the spring year-round, but especially in late fall and winter, where the constant 72 F temperature of the spring is much warmer than river water.

The Annual Watermelon Festival is the largest event of the year and dates back to 1954. It is held each year on the first Saturday of June and is maintained by the Chiefland Women's Club.

The Levy County Quilt Museum, founded by the Log Cabin Quilters club, is the only registered quilting museum in the state of Florida. Twice a year quilters organize a Quilt Show for local quilters to exhibit their work at the museum. The museum is open throughout the year and the collection contains unique items like a quilt made from the ties of two former Presidents, Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford. Open on Tuesday—Saturday, the museum is free to enter and is located just off of Highway Alt 27 on CR 134.

Chief Theatre, home to the Suwannee Valley Players, is located off of Main Street and E, Park Avenue in downtown Chiefland. The theatre was built in 1948 as a movie theater till 1984. In 1998, the building was purchased and reopened as a Playhouse due to a historic preservation grant. The Suwannee Valley Players, the oldest community theater troupe in Levy and its adjacent counties, has performed at Chief Theatre for over 37 years. The local theater group presents a new play around every 3 months, these plays include well known titles such as The Importance of Being Earnest and Into the Woods to original plays written by local writers.

Commerce
Chiefland is located in the northwest corner of the county, where Levy, Dixie and Gilchrist counties adjoin (known as the "Tri-County area"). As growth in north Florida increased during the last quarter of the twentieth century, Chiefland became a local center for shopping. A 202000 sqft Walmart Supercenter was opened in 1995, and increased traffic along US 19/98 support a variety of national fast food franchises plus Best Western and Days Inn motels. Georgia-Pacific was a large employer, operating a mill in Chiefland from 1955 to 1978. Agriculture is still a major factor in the local economy, but there has been a big shift to a service economy. There are three incarceration facilities in the area: Cross City Correctional Institution & Work Camp; Lancaster Correctional Institution & Work Camp; and Levy Forestry Camp. They provide a total of over 800 jobs.

Education
Chiefland has two public schools: Chiefland Middle High School, and Chiefland Elementary. The School Board of Levy County controls their operation and also supervises two charter schools: Nature Coast Middle School and Whispering Winds. Other schools under the board's jurisdiction are in the town of Bronson, the city of Williston, the city of Cedar Key, and Yankeetown.

The College of Central Florida has plans for a $12 million permanent facility on 35 acre of donated land by the Mann family. The location is 5 mi north of the city. The college currently operates the Levy Center in downtown Chiefland. The new location has been designated the Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus in honor of the former high school math teacher's donation of $2.5 million to the campus.

Library
Levy County provides Chiefland with a local public library. The Luther Callaway Public Library is a depository library that receives publications from the State of Florida for public use. The library was dedicated in 1985 to Luther Callaway who was postmaster for almost 30 years and a school teacher. In November 2019, two vacant parcels of land were donated by Luther Callaway's family in hopes of expanding the library facilities. The library is also supported by the "Friends of the Luther Callaway Public Library (FLCPL) Board of Directors group. FLCPL supports the library through fundraising efforts in order to support library programs and resources.

Healthcare
The State of Florida has approved a 28-bed hospital in Chiefland to serve the needs of western Levy County, Dixie County, and Gilchrist County. The Suwannee Valley Community Hospital is expected to cost $27 million, and Ameris Health Systems is leading the effort. The first drawing of the facility was rendered in March 2008.

title: Chiefland, Florida


text:
East Bronson, Florida

East Bronson is a census-designated place (CDP) in Levy County, Florida, United States. The population was 2,025 at the 2020 census, up from 1,945 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
East Bronson is located at 29.45389°N, -82.59444°W (29.453809, -82.594377).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 29.6 km2, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,075 people, 394 households, and 293 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 93.8 PD/sqmi. There were 456 housing units at an average density of 39.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 86.23% White, 5.77% African American, 0.56% Native American, 0.28% Asian, 4.28% from other races, and 2.88% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 11.16% of the population.

There were 394 households, out of which 37.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.8% were married couples living together, 13.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.6% were non-families. 21.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.73 and the average family size was 3.14.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 29.2% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 29.9% from 25 to 44, 21.3% from 45 to 64, and 13.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.7 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $25,833, and the median income for a family was $26,853. Males had a median income of $21,691 versus $18,194 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $12,611. About 8.6% of families and 15.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.5% of those under age 18 and 11.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: East Bronson, Florida


text:
East Williston, Florida

East Williston is a census-designated place (CDP) in Levy County, Florida, United States. The population was 780 at the 2020 census, up from 694 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
East Williston is located at 29.38917°N, -82.41944°W (29.389034, -82.419488).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 7.8 km2, all land.

2020 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 966 people, 344 households, and 245 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 310.6 PD/sqmi. There were 381 housing units at an average density of 122.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 12.42% White, 83.75% African American, 0.21% Native American, 1.14% from other races, and 2.48% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.38% of the population.

There were 344 households, out of which 35.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 29.1% were married couples living together, 36.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.5% were non-families. 23.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.81 and the average family size was 3.32.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 31.2% under the age of 18, 12.1% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 17.6% from 45 to 64, and 11.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 75.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 75.5 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $23,882, and the median income for a family was $28,152. Males had a median income of $26,589 versus $17,981 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $14,085. About 29.4% of families and 28.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 41.7% of those under age 18 and 35.1% of those age 65 or over.

title: East Williston, Florida


text:
Inglis, Florida

Inglis is a town in Levy County, Florida, United States. It is on U.S. Highway 19 near the Cross Florida Greenway. As of the 2020 census, the town had a population of 1,476, up from 1,325 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The Town of Inglis is named after Captain John L. Inglis, who was connected with Dunnellon Phosphate. It was previously called “Port Inglis”, and when it was settled in 1875, the original name for the community was “Blind Horse”.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the Town of Inglis is located at 29.03278°N, -82.66667°W (29.032878, −82.666731), approximately 5 mi east of the Gulf of Mexico.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 9.5 km2, of which 9.4 km2 is land and 0.04 km2, or 0.40%, is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Inglis has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,476 people, 823 households, and 456 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 1,325 people, 758 households, and 448 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,491 people in the town, organized into 670 households and 426 families. The population density was 408.2 PD/sqmi. There were 803 housing units at an average density of 219.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.73% White, 0.34% Asian, 0.13% Native American, 0.13% from other races, and 0.67% from two or more races. 1.88% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

In 2000, there were 670 households, out of which 22.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.0% were married couples living together; 8.2% had a female householder with no husband present; and 36.3% were non-families. 31.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.23 and the average family size was 2.70.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 20.9% under the age of 18, 5.0% from 18 to 24, 22.3% from 25 to 44, 29.0% from 45 to 64, and 22.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.7 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $24,432, and the median income for a family was $27,734. Males had a median income of $24,342 versus $20,278 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,098. 22.3% of the population and 18.9% of families were below the poverty line. Out of the total population, 35.1% of those under the age of 18 and 9.6% of those 65 and older were living below the poverty line.

Elvis Presley in Inglis
During July and August 1961, Elvis Presley spent his summer in Inglis and the surrounding areas filming his movie Follow That Dream. A historical marker on Follow That Dream Parkway in Inglis commemorates this event.

title: Inglis, Florida


text:
Manatee Road, Florida

Manatee Road is a census-designated place (CDP) in Levy County, Florida, United States. The population was 2,484 at the 2020 census, up from 2,244 at the 2010 census. At the 2000 census, the CDP was misspelled as "Manattee Road". It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Manatee Road is located in northwestern Levy County at 29.5075°N, -82.92056°W (29.507549, -82.920612). It is bordered to the east by the city of Chiefland and to the northeast by unincorporated Andrews. Florida State Road 320 (Manatee Springs Road) runs through the southern part of the CDP, leading east to Chiefland and west to its end at Manatee Springs State Park.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Manatee Road CDP has a total area of 33.7 km2, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,937 people, 852 households, and 593 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 135.4 PD/sqmi. There were 1,009 housing units at an average density of 70.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.75% White, 1.55% African American, 0.10% Native American, 0.05% Asian, 0.46% from other races, and 1.08% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.70% of the population.

There were 852 households, out of which 21.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.6% were married couples living together, 8.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.3% were non-families. 25.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.27 and the average family size was 2.71.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 19.4% under the age of 18, 5.8% from 18 to 24, 19.9% from 25 to 44, 28.1% from 45 to 64, and 26.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.8 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $22,306, and the median income for a family was $25,174. Males had a median income of $22,417 versus $14,200 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $13,534. About 17.3% of families and 21.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 38.3% of those under age 18 and 6.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Manatee Road, Florida


text:
Otter Creek, Florida

Otter Creek is a town in Levy County, Florida, United States. The town is located in North Florida. The population was 108 at the 2020 census.

History
Hernando de Soto crossed Otter Creek during his explorations of Florida in 1539.

In the 1930s and 1940s, Otter Creek was the second largest community in Levy County, with a population approaching 1,000.

The loss of a lumber mill that made cypress "flitches" for citrus crates and the discontinuation of two railroads which bisected the town led to a steady population decline.

The Town of Otter Creek was officially incorporated as a municipality in 1969.

In 2007, the town council created a local historic district consisting of neighborhoods with "company town" residences that date from the 19th and early 20th century

After the closure of the lumber mill, there has been very little business or commercial activity within Otter Creek. By 2019, only two small businesses remained, an independently-owned convenience store (no gasoline) located at the intersection of Highways 19 and 24, and the Creekside Christian School, a private, primary school operating on the grounds of Otter Creek Baptist Church.

To the extent that other businesses existed, they have closed due to the deaths of their owners or otherwise failed. Some notable examples were the Smith Store and the Country Store, both community-centric and vibrant in their days. The Smith Store was operated by Ella Graham (deceased 1996), whose grandson once delivered groceries and dry goods to the town residents on a Shetland pony. The Country Store, originally built and operated by Junior and Philene Williams, changed hands after their deaths, but permanently closed about 2000. There was an animal hide tannery until about 1980, and a few bait shops and convenience stores. The remnants of nearly all are now decrepit.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the Town of Otter Creek is located at 29.32344°N, -82.77271°W.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 3.8 km2, of which 3.7 km2 is land and 0.05 km2 (1.28%) is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Otter Creek has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 108 people, 44 households, and 33 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 134 people, 65 households, and 49 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 121 people, 54 households, and 32 families residing in the town. The population density was 84.7 PD/sqmi. There were 70 housing units at an average density of 49.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 93.39% White, 3.31% African American, 2.48% from other races, and 0.83% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.96% of the population.

In 2000, there were 54 households, out of which 22.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.9% were married couples living together, 3.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.7% were non-families. 31.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.91.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 17.4% under the age of 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 20.7% from 25 to 44, 37.2% from 45 to 64, and 17.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 108.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.0 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $18,036, and the median income for a family was $19,821. Males had a median income of $30,000 versus $22,500 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,101. There were 12.1% of families and 20.2% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 17.2% of those over 64.

title: Otter Creek, Florida


text:
Williston, Florida

Williston is a city in Levy County, Florida, United States. It is part of the Nature Coast. As of the 2020 census, it had a population of 2,976, up from 2,768 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
The city was established before 1885 by J. M. Willis, who named it after himself.

Geography
Williston is located at 29.38694°N, -82.44667°W (29.386811, –82.446706).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 17.5 km2, of which 0.05 sqkm, or 0.27%, is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Williston has a humid subtropical climate zone, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 2,976 people, 937 households, and 590 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 2,768 people, 1,184 households, and 763 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,297 people, 836 households, and 580 families residing in the city. The population density was 379.0 PD/sqmi. There were 915 housing units at an average density of 151.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 73.44% White, 22.81% African American, 0.78% Native American, 0.74% Asian, 0.44% Pacific Islander, 1.09% from other races, and 1.09% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.57% of the population.

In 2000, there were 836 households, out of which 31.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.9% were married couples living together, 22.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.6% were non-families. 25.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.56 and the average family size was 3.03.

In 2000, in the city the population was spread out, with 26.2% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 25.2% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 19.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 76.9 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $25,795, and the median income for a family was $26,918. Males had a median income of $22,331 versus $20,634 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,628. About 22.4% of families and 22.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 28.1% of those under age 18 and 22.5% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
Williston hosts the Central Florida Harvest and Peanut Festival every October.

Devil's Den and Blue Grotto
Williston is home to Devil's Den and Blue Grotto, popular diving spots and part of the extensive underground spring system present in the area.

Kentucky Derby
Williston is the birthplace of Foolish Pleasure, winner of the 1975 Kentucky Derby.

Major roads

Railroads
Passenger rail service was previously available at the Williston Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Depot as well as the Seaboard Air Line Railroad depot. Since 2004, the depot is only served by Amtrak's Thruway Motorcoach service to Jacksonville and Lakeland.

Florida Northern Railroad's West Coast Subdivision provides freight rail service through Willison.

Aviation
The area includes Williston Municipal Airport (X60), a city-owned, public-use airport located two nautical miles (4 km) southwest of the central business district of Williston.

Education
School Board of Levy County operates public schools:
 * Williston High School (6–12)
 * Williston Elementary School (3–5)
 * Joyce Bullock Elementary School (PK–2)

Library
Levy County provides Williston with a local library branch. The Williston Public Library is located in the former, historic Perkins State Bank; one of Florida's oldest banks.

title: Williston, Florida


text:
Yankeetown, Florida

Yankeetown is a town in Levy County, Florida, United States. Its located in North Florida along the Gulf of Mexico. It is part of both the Big Bend Coast and the Nature Coast. In the 2020 census, the population was 588, up from 502 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Yankeetown was founded in 1923 by the Indiana politician and lawyer Armanis F. Knotts, who moved to the area because of his great love for hunting. The settlement was originally an unincorporated village named "Knotts Village", after the founder's surname. However, stories have it that the present name comes from a local mail carrier, an "unreconstructed Confederate," who frequently and derisively directed visitors to the settlement that he called "that Yankee town." The "Town of Yankeetown" was officially incorporated as a municipality in 1925. Yankeetown was initially to be the western end of a 1930s proposed, but never actualized, Cross Florida Canal.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the Town of Yankeetown is located at 29.03111°N, -82.72°W (29.031155, –82.720104).

The outermost reaches of the town are located around the mouth of the Withlacoochee River and along the Gulf of Mexico.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 54.6 km2, of which 19.8 km2 is land and 34.8 km2, or 63.75%, is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Yankeetown has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 588 people, 252 households, and 180 families residing in the town.

In 2020, the median household income was $44,318. There was an employment rate of 30.2%, and 28.9% of the population lived below the poverty threshold.

In 2020, 28.2% of the population 25 years or older had a Bachelor's degree or higher. 11.9% of the population were without any healthcare coverage. The median age was 56.0 years old.

In 2020, 11.9% of the population were veterans. 1.8% of the population were foreign-born persons.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 502 people, 297 households, and 170 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 629 people, 309 households, and 194 families residing in the town. The population density is 80.4/mi2 (31.1/km2). There are 472 housing units at an average density of 60.3/mi2 (23.3/km2). The racial makeup of the town is 96.82% White, 0.00% African American, 1.43% Native American, 0.79% Asian, 0.00% Pacific Islander, 0.00% from other races, and 0.95% from two or more races. 0.64% of the population are Hispanic or Latino of any race.

In 2000, there were 309 households out of which 12.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.3% were married couples living together, 5.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.9% were non-families. 31.4% of all households were made up of individuals and 13.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.04 and the average family size was 2.48.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out with 14.1% under the age of 18, 3.5% from 18 to 24, 15.6% from 25 to 44, 36.6% from 45 to 64, and 30.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 55 years. For every 100 females, there were 105.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.3 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $33,304, and the median income for a family was $40,833. Males had a median income of $28,750 versus $31,500 for females. The per capita income for the town was $22,774. 6.8% of families and 12.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.5% of those under age 18 and 11.3% of those age 65 or over.

Education
School Board of Levy County operates the PK–8 Yankeetown School. The Yankeetown Inglis Woman's Club provides Yankeetown and Inglis with the local A. F. Knotts Public Library. The YIWC has a contract with Levy County who provides staffing and books for the local library. The YI Woman's Club is believed to be the last woman's club in the US to own and maintain a public library for their community. The original library opened in 1959, with 1,000 donated books The A.F. Knotts Public Library was named in honor of the town's founder, Armanis F. Knotts, in 1975 by his nephew Eugene Knotts.

title: Yankeetown, Florida


text:
Bristol, Florida

Bristol is a city in and the county seat of Liberty County, Florida, United States. It is the only incorporated city in Liberty County. The population was 918 at the 2020 census.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the City of Bristol is located in northwestern Liberty County at 30.42706°N, -84.9791°W, in the Florida Panhandle.

It sits atop a 150 ft bluff overlooking the east side of the Apalachicola River. Florida State Road 20 passes through the city, leading west 4 mi to Blountstown and east 44 mi to Tallahassee, the state capital. Florida State Road 12 leads northeast from Bristol 18 mi to Greensboro.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Bristol has a total area of 4.2 km2, all land.

Climate
Like all of North Florida, the climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the City of Bristol has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 918 people, 352 households, and 210 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 996 people, 322 households, and 183 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 845 people, 326 households, and 235 families residing in the city. The population density was 517.1 PD/sqmi. There were 393 housing units at an average density of 240.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 87.22% White, 3.79% African American, 1.78% Native American, 5.44% from other races, and 1.78% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.80% of the population.

There were 326 households, out of which 30.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.8% were married couples living together, 14.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.9% were non-families. 25.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.48 and the average family size was 2.91.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 24.9% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 25.6% from 25 to 44, 24.5% from 45 to 64, and 16.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $31,607, and the median income for a family was $36,932. Males had a median income of $26,473 versus $22,500 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,949. About 14.8% of families and 19.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 24.9% of those under age 18 and 15.5% of those age 65 or over.

Education
All public schools in Bristol are served by Liberty County School District.

Two schools are based in Bristol:
 * Liberty County High School
 * W.R. Tolar Elementary and Middle School (K-8).

Veterans Memorial Park
One notable feature of the park is the narrow gauge Veterans Memorial Railroad, operating multiple types of locomotives including a coal-powered steam locomotive built by Crown Metal Products.

Claimed Garden of Eden site
A widely reported claim was once made by Elvy E. Callaway that the site of the Biblical Garden of Eden lay in northern Liberty County. He cited as evidence the Apalachicola River, with its four heads, and local sources of torreya (which Callaway claimed was gopher wood, the material said to have been used by Noah in constructing his ark).

title: Bristol, Florida


text:
Greenville, Florida

Greenville is a town in Madison County, Florida, United States. The population was 746 at the 2020 census, down from 843 at the 2010 census.

History
Greenville was first settled in 1850. It was originally known as "Sandy Ford", and during the American Civil War it was renamed "Station Five" for its location along the Pensacola and Georgia Railroad. It was officially incorporated in 1907, and named the "Town of Greenville" because during the US civil war, the women's sewing circle in the community helped sew for Confederate soldiers and after the civil war, the postmaster and residents decided to name it after the birthplace of Mrs. U.M. Roberts, the sewing circle's president: Greenville, North Carolina. Ray Charles lived with his mother in Greenville. There is a statue of him in Greenville Park.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the Town of Greenville is located in western Madison County at 30.46667°N, -83.63333°W (30.467, –83.635).

U.S. Route 90 passes through the north side of the town, leading east 13 mi to Madison, the county seat, and northwest 16 mi to Monticello. U.S. Route 221 passes through the center of town, leading south 26 mi to Perry and north 24 mi to Quitman, Georgia. Interstate 10 passes 2 mi south of the town, with access to US-221 at Exit 241. I-10 leads west 41 mi to Tallahassee, the state capital, and east 63 mi to Lake City.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town of Greenville has a total area of 1.3 sqmi, all land.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Greenville has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 746 people, 378 households, and 218 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 843 people, 369 households, and 273 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 837 people, 331 households, and 220 families residing in the town. The population density was 636.9 PD/sqmi. There were 394 housing units at an average density of 299.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 27.36% White, 72.04% African American, 0.12% Native American, 0.12% Asian, 0.12% from other races, and 0.24% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.24% of the population.

In 2000, there were 331 households, out of which 33.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 33.8% were married couples living together, 27.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.5% were non-families. 31.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.53 and the average family size was 3.16.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 31.3% under the age of 18, 7.2% from 18 to 24, 24.4% from 25 to 44, 19.0% from 45 to 64, and 18.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 83.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 70.1 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $20,060, and the median income for a family was $21,484. Males had a median income of $23,750 versus $17,368 for females. The per capita income for the town was $11,128. About 26.4% of families and 32.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 48.5% of those under age 18 and 25.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Greenville Elementary School is a part of the District School Board of Madison County. Secondary school students go to the PreK–8 Madison County Central School, which serves Greenville students for middle school, and Madison County High School.

The Suwanee River Regional Library System operates the Greenville Library.

Notable people

 * Ray Charles, childhood home of R&B icon
 * Geno Hayes, former NFL linebacker for the Florida State Seminoles, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Chicago Bears, and the Jacksonville Jaguars
 * Chris Thompson, former NFL running back for the Florida State Seminoles, Washington Redskins, and the Jacksonville Jaguars

title: Greenville, Florida