Ocala Historic District - Ocala, Florida

The Ocala Historic District in Florida covers 173 acres and includes more than 200 noteworthy structures, making it one of the most fascinating historic districts in the South.

The district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984 and has been the center of beautiful preservation and restoration efforts. With its oak-shaded streets, large lots and stunning architecture, it is a wonderful place to spend some time walking the sidewalks and exploring.

The development of this residential area in Ocala began after Silver Springs achieved worldwide note as a tourist destination. The booming economy of the Central Florida city prompted Joseph Caldwell to develop his land on what was then the outskirts of town. The development was platted in 1880 and soon became "the" place to live in Ocala.

With the Victorian styles of architecture then in vogue, the district saw the construction of huge homes in the Queen Anne Revival and other styles. Over the years other types or styles were added in the Frame Vernacular, other Revival and bungalow styles. The district was home to the son of a Confederate general, leading Central Florida businessmen and even the man who is thought to have been the first to introduce Lt. Col. Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt as the "future President of the United States."

To learn more, please visit www.exploresouthernhistory.com/ocala2.