Brooksville, located in Hernando County, Florida, is a charming city that boasts a long and rich history. With its rolling hills and compact size, it is a unique reflection of the Old South compared to other towns on the West Coast. Originally known as Melendez and then Benton, this city has seen many changes over the years. From successful planters and growers to cattlemen, Brooksville has been shaped by its past and continues to thrive today. In this article, we will take a tour of historic Brooksville and discover its hidden gems, from pre-1900 buildings to churches and houses with fascinating stories to tell.
The Beginnings of Brooksville: Fort DeSoto and Pierceville
Brooksville was founded in 1856 and has since grown into a vibrant city with a strong sense of community. However, its roots can be traced back to two separate communities – Fort DeSoto and Pierceville. These two settlements were established in the early 1800s and played a significant role in the development of Brooksville.
Fort DeSoto: A Military Outpost Turned Town
Fort DeSoto was originally built as a military outpost during the Second Seminole War in the 1830s. It was named after General Joseph DeSoto, who led the troops during the war. The fort was strategically located near the Withlacoochee River and served as a supply depot for soldiers fighting against the Seminole tribe.
After the war ended, the fort was abandoned and eventually became a ghost town. However, in 1845, the Armed Occupation Act was passed, which offered land grants to settlers willing to live on and cultivate the land. This attracted many new residents to the area, and Fort DeSoto began to thrive once again.
In 1856, the town was officially named Brooksville and became the county seat of Hernando County. Today, there are still remnants of Fort DeSoto, including a cemetery and a few buildings that have been preserved as part of the Fort DeSoto Historic Site.
Pierceville: A Prominent Plantation Town
Pierceville, located just south of Fort DeSoto, was another important settlement in the early days of Brooksville. It was founded by John May, a wealthy plantation owner who moved to Florida from South Carolina in the 1840s. May established a large cotton plantation and built a grand mansion, which he named “May-Stringer House.”
The town of Pierceville grew around the plantation, with a post office, general store, and school being established. However, the town’s prosperity was short-lived, as the Civil War brought an end to the cotton industry in the area. After the war, the plantation was abandoned, and the town slowly faded away.
Today, the May-Stringer House is a popular tourist attraction and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its fascinating history.
Exploring Downtown Brooksville
Downtown Brooksville is a charming area filled with historic buildings and landmarks. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s history and architecture. In this section, we will take a stroll through downtown and discover some of its most notable sites.
First Methodist Church
Our tour of downtown Brooksville begins at the First Methodist Church, located at 109 South Broad Street. This church was organized in 1891 and has been an integral part of the community ever since. The current building, constructed in 1915, is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture, with its pointed arches and stained glass windows.
The church also has a rich history, with its congregation playing an active role in the community. During the Great Depression, the church opened a soup kitchen to help those in need, and during World War II, it served as a Red Cross center. Today, the First Methodist Church continues to serve the community through various outreach programs and events.
John J. Hale House
Just a short detour north on Orange Street will lead you to the John J. Hale House, located at 31 Broad Street. This three-story frame house was built in 1888 and is a prime example of Victorian architecture. It was owned by John J. Hale, a prominent merchant and railroad trustee, who lived in the house with his family until his death in 1913.
One interesting feature of the house is the enclosed breezeway that once separated the kitchen from the main house. This was a common design element in Florida homes during the late 19th century, as it helped keep the main living areas cool during the hot summer months.
Presbyterian Church Building
At 31 Broad Street, you will also find the Presbyterian Church Building, which was converted in 1947 by Henry Carlton Sr. This beautiful building, with its white columns and steeple, was originally built in 1892 and served as the First Presbyterian Church of Brooksville until 1947.
Today, the building is home to the Hernando County Historical Museum, which showcases the city’s history through various exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the museum and learn about the people and events that shaped Brooksville into the city it is today.
Where to Get More Information
If you’re interested in learning more about Brooksville and Hernando County, there are several resources available to you. In this section, we will list some of the best places to get more information about this historic city.
Hernando County Chamber of Commerce
The Hernando County Chamber of Commerce is a great place to start your research on Brooksville and the surrounding area. The chamber’s website provides a wealth of information, including a business directory, events calendar, and resources for visitors and residents alike.
You can also visit the chamber’s office, located at 15588 Aviation Loop Drive in Brooksville, to pick up brochures and maps or speak with a staff member who can answer any questions you may have.
City of Brooksville
The official website of the City of Brooksville is another excellent resource for information about the city. Here, you can find details about government services, local news, and upcoming events. The website also has a section dedicated to the city’s history, which includes a timeline of significant events and a list of historic sites.
Hernando Sun
The Hernando Sun is a local newspaper that covers news and events in Hernando County. It is a great source of information for current events and community happenings. You can access their website for free, or pick up a physical copy at various locations throughout the city.
Conclusion
Brooksville, Florida, is a city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. From its beginnings as two separate settlements to its current status as a thriving city, it has seen many changes over the years. As we have discovered in this article, there are many fascinating sites and stories to explore in Brooksville, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the Old South and its heritage. So next time you find yourself in Hernando County, be sure to take a tour of historic Brooksville and experience its charm for yourself.