We are captivated by stories about Sarasota's rich past. One article by Jeff LaHurd in the Herald-Tribune in October 2021 especially caught our attention. It uncovers the surprising and intriguing origins behind the names of some of Sarasota's most well-known streets. From citrus fruits to U.S. Presidents, each name tells a unique story that will surely pique your interest. Here are a few fun facts inspired by LaHurd's article.
Fruit Streets: A Citrus-Fueled Dream with Scottish Roots
Why do streets like Pineapple, Orange, Lime, and Cocoanut run through Sarasota? Their names are a playful homage to Florida's citrus heritage and trace back to Scottish investors. In Sarasota's early days, the Florida Mortgage and Investment Company of Scotland enticed Gulf Coast farmers to settle here, hoping to profit from citrus harvesting. These streets remind us of a time when agriculture was the driving force of the local economy.
Swift and Tuttle Avenues: A Legacy of Road Builders
When driving along Swift Avenue or Tuttle Avenue, we're traveling roads named after two key figures in Sarasota's development: Clifton Swift and William Tuttle. The influential Bertha Honoré Palmer invited them to survey land and build roads—an effort that not only laid the foundation for the Sarasota we know today but also inspires us with their vision and dedication.
Tamiami Trail: Connecting Tampa to Miami
The famous Tamiami Trail (combining "Tampa" and "Miami") is more than just a scenic route—it's a historic roadway. Designed to link Tampa and Miami, the trail passed through Sarasota, bringing new visitors and connecting us to the city's past. Many of those early travelers fell in love with the city and decided to stay, contributing to Sarasota's growth and vibrancy.
Presidential Streets on Lido Key
During the 1920s, Sarasota's history took a glamorous turn with a connection to U.S. Presidents. The visionary John Ringling hoped to establish a Winter White House for President Warren G. Harding on nearby Bird Key. St. Armands Circle was initially called Harding Circle in honor of the President. Although the name was later changed, the area still honors the spirit of one of Sarasota's early settlers, Charles A. St. Amand.
The Mystery of Beneva Road
The name Beneva Road has become a bit of local folklore. According to legend, the road got its name because it once led to the home of Ben and Eva. While this origin story may not be official, it adds a whimsical and nostalgic touch to Sarasota's history, preserving the charm of those early days and making us feel nostalgic.
Honoring Legacy
Booker Avenue and Emma Booker School for the African American educator and civic leader who helped so many of her wards with their education during the bleak days of segregation.
There's So Much More to Discover
These stories are just the tip of the iceberg! Jeff LaHurd's article in the Herald-Tribune offers many more fascinating tidbits about how our streets got their names, each reflecting the city's transformation from a citrus hub to a thriving cultural destination.
Sarasota's street names aren't just signs—they're stories, connecting us to the people, history, and events that shaped our community. Next time we find ourselves on Pineapple Avenue or Beneva Road, let's take a moment to appreciate the history hidden in these familiar names. And if you have your own stories or knowledge about Sarasota's street names, we'd love to hear them. Let's keep the conversation about our city's history alive.
Looking to live on a Fruit Street? We can help. Start your search here.
