Lake City, FL Area Guide

Lake City is a city in and the county seat of Columbia County, Florida. As of 2006, the U.S. Census Bureau recorded Lake City's population at 11,953 and continues to grow rapidly today. Lake City is well known for its attempts to maintain a warm and friendly hometown atmosphere while offering many of the same amenities people associate with larger cities. In 2009, the city celebrated 150 years of existence. Lake City offers visitors and residents a slower pace, accentuated by their southern hospitality and abundant resources. With exotic wildlife, white water, crystal clear springs, and a rich history, Lake City has something for everyone.

History

Lake City began as a Seminole village called Alpata Telophka or "Alligator Town". By 1830, there was a white American town called Alligator adjacent to the Seminole village. In 1859 the city was incorporated and had its name changed to Lake City. History states that the name was changed because the mayor's wife, who had recently moved to the town, refused to hang up her lace curtains in a town called Alligator. Local lakes that helped to provide the new name include Lake DeSota, Lake Isabella, Alligator Lake, Lake Hamburg, Gwen Lake, Lake Harper and Watertown Lake. In February of 1864 the American Civil War battle of Olustee took place near Lake City. This battle was the only major battle in Florida during the civil war, leaving 1,861 Union soldiers and 946 Confederate soldiers dead, wounded or missing.

By the early 20th century, Lake City had become an important railroad junction, served by the Seaboard Air Line, Atlantic Coast Line, Georgia Southern, and the Florida Railroad. By 1950, forestry had become important to the local economy. Then in 1958, the Columbia Amateur Radio Society was formed. This was a group of amateur radio operators that enjoyed the ability to communicate all over the world. This radio club still exists today.

Lake City's Centennial was celebrated in 1959 with parades, fireworks and a 58-page book documenting one hundred years of progress, "A Century in the Sun". The citizens of the town dressed in period attire, complete with whiskers. Then in 2009 Lake City celebrated 150 years of existence. To discover more about Lake City's rich history, please visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_City,_Florida

Parks & Recreation

The Lake City Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to promote and coordinate recreation for visitors and residents alike. The department provides athletic, cultural and family-oriented programs for all ages and is your connection for yoga, football, T-ball, arts and crafts, as well as seasonal and recreation programs. The Lake City Parks and Recreation Department also partners with various non-profit organizations to provide quality, organized recreation programs. To learn more about Lake City's wonderful Parks and Recreation Department, please visit their official website at: http://www.lcfla.com/rec.htm.

Attractions

Lake City is best known for its numerous lakes and rivers, such as the famous Suwannee, the historic Santa Fe, and the Ichtucknee rivers that all flow through the area. Brimming with natural beauty and an abundance of wildlife, Lake City has something for people of all ages and interests. Enjoy this fabulous playground of water activities that offers everything from tubing to waterskiing or take a short drive to the historic Stephen Foster State Park, , the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, O'Lena State Park, Olustee Beach, and others too numerous to mention! If you're looking to play a round of golf, try Southern Oaks Golf Course. The front nine has 4 holes that run along a beautiful lake, and there is always deer, alligators, hawks, and exotic birds to be seen there. To discover what all is awaiting you in beautiful Lake City, please visit the city's official attraction headquarters by clicking here: http://www.lakecitychamber.com/Points_of_Interest.asp.

Annual Events

Lake City is home to numerous exciting annual and semi-annual events that are perfect for every age and interest. Come and see for yourself why so many people flock to Lake City annually!

• Olustee Battle Festival & Re-Enactment
• Florida Gateway Pro Rodeo
• Bar-B-Q & Chili Cook-Off
• Garden Club Home and Garden Tour
• Fourth of July Celebration
• North Florida Charity Air Show
• County Fair
• Christmas Bazaar/Festival of Lights
• Christmas Parade

Interactive Map