Orlando History

Discover the stories that shaped our city

From pioneering settlers and visionary civic leaders to iconic landmarks and hidden historical gems, Orlando's past is rich with fascinating tales. These are the people who built our community, the buildings that defined our skyline, the bridges that connected us, the lakes that shaped our landscape, and the moments that transformed a small town into the vibrant city we know today. Through historical accounts and archival discoveries, we preserve and share the stories behind the places and faces that made Orlando extraordinary.

Heritage Square: The Birthplace of Orlando Hiding in Plain Sight Downtown

Heritage Square is the literal birthplace of Orlando. Here’s the courthouse history, July Perry memorial, and what locals should know.

Miller’s Hardware: An 80-Year Winter Park Story Comes to a Close

Miller's Hardware in Winter Park is closing after 80+ years. Inside the four-generation story of Central Florida's oldest family-run hardware store.

Maitland Public Library: A 130-Year Story Anchoring Life North of Orlando

The Maitland Public Library has anchored civic life north of Orlando since 1896. Here's its story...

The Dinky Line Is Gone, but You’re Still Riding It

If you live in Orlando or Winter Park, you've probably ridden the Dinky Line without knowing it.

Albin Polasek Museum: The Hidden Story Behind Winter Park’s Most Inspiring Sculpture Garden

Albin Polasek Museum: The Hidden Winter Park Story Behind Orlando's Most Inspiring Sculpture Garden

The Empire Hotel: Inside Orlando’s Storied 1913 Landmark on West Central

The Empire Hotel at 32 West Central in Orlando has lived a wild 114 years, from silent film stars to ghosts to a $12M listing. Here's the full story...

Tabu Nightclub: A Downtown Icon On Orange Ave

Tabu Nightclub ran Orlando's Beacham building from 2001 to 2010. Inside the owners, the DJs, the Backstreet Boys tie, and the closing.

Orlando Army Air Force Base: The Forgotten Installation That Trained 54,000 Troops and Built a Neighborhood

Orlando Army Air Force Base shaped WWII tactics, trained 54,000 airmen, housed German POWs, and became today's Baldwin Park. Here's the full story.

Palm Cottage: The 1880s House and Garden That Changed How Florida Grows

Discover Palm Cottage, a relocated 1880s house and six-acre garden where 3,000+ plant species were tested, shaping Florida horticulture forever.

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A newsletter born from a simple belief: Greater Orlando deserves better local coverage.

Orlando History

Discover the stories that shaped our city

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