Florida's Antebellum Homes

Book excerpt: Florida's antebellum architecture reflects the state's singular history and the realities faced and enjoyed by her early citizens. Threats from Native Americans dictated that the homes of early frontiersmen incorporate in their design defensive features, and many felt the need to locate within small towns. Many planters held close family and business ties with the older, more established South, which encouraged elaborate homes that could easily fit into the plantation architecture of South Carolina, Georgia, or Mississippi. Influences from the state's two ruling countries-Spain and England-also gave way to unique design. Florida's Antebellum Homes features images of buildings that incorporate various combinations of these design features. In addition, some of the public structures shown here reflect the emerging senses of personal affluence, civic pride, and political development. Unfortunately, some of these buildings no longer exist; they fell prey to natural catastrophes, unbridled expansion, and the relentless march of Florida's exacting climate. Many, however, remain in pristine condition and invite the public to appreciate them today, much as earlier Floridians reveled in their stateliness.