- Agriculture: Farmers cultivated citrus, vegetables, and livestock, using spring water for irrigation.
- Timber and Logging: Cypress and pine forests were harvested for construction and trade, with rivers providing transport routes.
- Transportation Infrastructure: Roads and rudimentary rail systems facilitated the movement of goods and people to and from the springs region.
- Early Recreation: Residents and visitors began using springs for swimming, fishing, and social gatherings.
Despite growing human settlement, Wekiwa Springs maintained much of its natural beauty, providing a foundation for later tourism.
Emergence as a Tourist Destination
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of Wekiwa Springs as a recreational hotspot:
- Resorts and Lodging: Small lodges and cabins accommodated visitors drawn to the springs’ natural beauty.
- Swimming and Boating: The spring’s clear waters made it ideal for swimming, while the Wekiwa River supported boating and canoeing.
- Health and Recreation: Advertisements promoted the springs as beneficial for relaxation and health, appealing to visitors from urban areas.
- Nature Observation: Early tourists enjoyed the abundant wildlife, including fish, turtles, birds, and alligators.
Wekiwa Springs became an essential part of Florida’s early tourism network, attracting visitors seeking both recreation and natural beauty. shutdown123