Fort Lauderdale, often known for its beaches and vibrant nightlife, is a city rich in history. While landmarks like the Stranahan House or the Bonnet House are popular attractions, Fort Lauderdale is also home to several lesser-known historical sites that are equally captivating. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the city's past and provide a unique opportunity for visitors to explore its historical roots. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the lesser-known historical landmarks in Fort Lauderdale that deserve more attention.
The Old Fort Lauderdale Village and Museum is one of the lesser-known historical sites in the city. It consists of several preserved buildings that showcase Fort Lauderdale’s origins as a military post. The village is located in the heart of the city, providing visitors with an opportunity to step back in time and explore Fort Lauderdale’s beginnings during the Second Seminole War in the 1830s.
The museum offers a series of exhibits focusing on the early history of the area, with artifacts from the Seminole Wars, early settlers, and the development of Fort Lauderdale. The highlight of the site is the reconstructed Fort Lauderdale itself, a small wooden fort built by U.S. soldiers in 1838 to protect settlers from the Seminole tribe. Though the original fort was abandoned in the 1840s, its preservation serves as a reminder of the city’s military past and its role in the larger history of Florida.
Why It’s Important: The Old Fort Lauderdale Village and Museum provides an excellent, immersive experience into the city’s military history. It’s often overlooked by tourists, making it a peaceful and educational spot to visit.
The African-American Research Library and Cultural Center is another historical gem in Fort Lauderdale that often flies under the radar. Located in the city’s Dorsey-Riverbend neighborhood, this library and cultural center celebrate the achievements and contributions of African-Americans in Fort Lauderdale and beyond.
The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed by the renowned architect Robert M. Gurney. Its design reflects African cultural motifs and combines both modern and traditional architectural styles. Inside, visitors can find a variety of exhibits focusing on African-American history, including those related to the civil rights movement, local African-American communities, and the development of Fort Lauderdale.
The library offers an extensive collection of books, archives, and artwork, with an emphasis on African-American culture. It also hosts cultural events, educational programs, and performances that highlight African-American history.
Why It’s Important: The African-American Research Library and Cultural Center is a crucial institution for preserving and sharing the rich cultural history of African-Americans in Fort Lauderdale. It provides an important perspective on the city’s development and the broader history of African-American contributions to Florida.
While the Stranahan House is not as hidden as some of the other landmarks on this list, it is worth mentioning due to its significance in Fort Lauderdale’s history. Built in 1901 by Frank Stranahan, one of the city’s founding fathers, this house was the first permanent structure in Fort Lauderdale. The house also served as a trading post and post office, making it an essential part of the city’s early development.
The house’s history is also intertwined with the story of Stranahan’s love for his wife, Ivy Cromartie. Their love story is a poignant part of Fort Lauderdale’s history, and the house has been preserved as a museum. Visitors can tour the property, which includes original furnishings and exhibits about the early days of the city. The Stranahan House also hosts special events, educational programs, and historic tours that provide an even deeper understanding of Fort Lauderdale’s past.
Why It’s Important: The Stranahan House is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most iconic historical landmarks. It offers a beautiful glimpse into the early days of the city and tells the personal story of the Stranahan family.
The Sailboat Bend Historic District is a charming neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale that’s often overlooked by tourists. This area was once home to some of the city’s most prominent early residents and is filled with early 20th-century architecture, including old wooden houses, bungalow-style homes, and Mediterranean Revival-style buildings.
The neighborhood gets its name from its unique shape, which resembles a sailboat when viewed from above. The district also has a rich history, with many of the homes dating back to the early 1900s, when the area was a popular spot for affluent families. Walking through Sailboat Bend, visitors can admire the beautiful homes, many of which have been meticulously restored to maintain their historic charm.
Why It’s Important: The Sailboat Bend Historic District provides a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale’s residential history and architectural evolution. It’s a peaceful, scenic area perfect for leisurely walks and offers insight into the city’s early development.
The New River Inn, located in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale, is another hidden gem that showcases the city’s history. Built in 1905, the New River Inn was one of the first hotels in Fort Lauderdale. It served as a gathering place for travelers and a hub for social events in the early days of the city.
The inn’s history is tied to the development of Fort Lauderdale as a popular destination for tourists and settlers in the early 20th century. It also played a role in the city’s cultural life, hosting events, dances, and meetings for the local community. Today, the New River Inn is part of the Historical Society of Fort Lauderdale and offers tours that provide visitors with a glimpse into the city’s early social and economic life.
Why It’s Important: The New River Inn is a fantastic historical site that highlights Fort Lauderdale’s growth as a city and the role hospitality played in its development. It’s an ideal location for those interested in learning about the social history of the city.
The Fort Lauderdale History Center is a collection of historical buildings located in the heart of the city. It includes the New River Inn, as well as several other buildings that help tell the story of Fort Lauderdale’s development from a small military post to a thriving city. The History Center offers exhibits and educational programs that focus on various aspects of the city’s history, including its Native American roots, early settlers, and the impact of the railroad on the city’s growth.
Visitors can explore the exhibits and learn about the city’s cultural, economic, and social development through interactive displays, historical artifacts, and guided tours. The History Center is a fantastic place to gain a deeper understanding of Fort Lauderdale’s past in a comprehensive, engaging way.
Why It’s Important: The Fort Lauderdale History Center is a great place for those interested in the city’s overall history. It provides a broad view of the city’s development, offering a deeper connection to the area’s past.
Fort Lauderdale may be best known for its beaches and vibrant nightlife, but the city’s lesser-known historical landmarks offer a deeper understanding of its fascinating past. From military forts and preserved homes to cultural centers and historic neighborhoods, Fort Lauderdale has much to offer for history enthusiasts. These hidden gems provide a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of the city and gain a deeper appreciation for the forces that shaped it into the vibrant, modern destination it is today.
