A Guide to Alachua County's History

Prepared by Ben Pickard
Alachua County Historic Trust
Matheson Museum, Inc.



Historical Overview

Long before the Spaniards arrived in Florida, Alachua County's unique combination of fertile soil, broad prairies, clear lakes and abundant game had spawned a complex Indian civilization called Timucuan. Throughout the 16th century, DeSoto and other Spanish explorers plundered the region, then Franciscan priests founded missions and finally ranchers established a large cattle ranch on Paynes Prairie.

18th Century

19th Century

20th Century

Postwar Era

Since 1970

Significant Dates

Larger Historic Towns

Smaller Historic Towns

Significant Homes

Significant Buildings

Significant Sites

Historical Figures