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The First Florida Coast-to-Coast Railroad in Cedar Key
The First Florida Coast-to-Coast Railroad, also called the Florida Railroad, was a significant landmark in Florida's transportation history. Cedar Key was chosen as the railroad's western terminus because it was a crucial port city at that time and provided easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. The first train arrived in Cedar Key on March 1, 1861, marking a new era. Cedar Key served as a central hub for shipping and transportation, connecting various parts of Florida to the rest of the world. The railroad facilitated the transportation of goods, people, and equipment to and from the Cedar Key port, making it a significant center of economic activity. The railroad's construction faced several challenges, such as the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, but the determined laborers overcame these hurdles and completed the project within four years. The railroad was instrumental in the growth and development of the state, contributing significantly to the economic and social progress of the region. However, the railroad's glory days were short-lived due to several factors, such as the decline of Cedar Key's shipping industry, the economic depression, and the great hurricane of 1926, which caused extensive damage to the railroad's infrastructure. These factors, coupled with the emergence of newer and more efficient transportation systems, led to a decline in the railroad's popularity, causing it to cease running in 1932. In conclusion, the First Florida Coast-to-Coast Railroad played a pivotal role in the development of the state of Florida. Despite its eventual downfall, the railroad remains a testament to the ingenuity and determination of those who built it, and it has served as a foundation for modern-day infrastructure that connects different parts of the state.
Gayle Underwood spoke about the Battle of Gettysburg; Bob Wooley spoke about the role of Florida ( Cedar Key) during the Civil War to a packed house! To learn more about Cedar Key and Levy County during the Civil War watch video below.
Learn about the history of the Civil War in the Cedar Keys, the Skirmish at Station #4, and why the Cedar Keys were so important in the Civil War with Bob Wooley, Cedar Key Historical Society Board Member, Historian, and Reenactor.
On February 18,2024 the Cedar Key hosted a well attended celbration of black history month, featuring the history of African Amersians in cedar Key and Levy County.
Tour two historic buildings filled with rich island history.
With showcases of prehistoric and Indian artifacts exhibits, from commercial fishing to Florida‘s first coast-to-coast Railroad, there’s something for people of all ages!
We are leashed pet friendly, and wheelchair accessible.
LOCATION
609 2nd Street
Cedar Key, Florida
32625
HOURS
Thursday thru Sunday: 11 am - 3 pm
$3.00 per person
Members are FREE
Children 12 and under are free.
Leashed Pet Friendly
PRIVATE TOURS ARE AVAILABLE
Private After-Hour- Tours
$10.00 per person
(price increase as of April 1, 2024)
Minimum of 15 Persons
Contact for More Information
The Musuem is open but still has needed repairs.
All Donations are Tax-Deductible and Greatly Appreciated! Thank you very much for your Tax—Deductible check donation written to The Cedar Key Historical Society, and mailed to:
CKHSM, P.O. Box 222, Cedar Key, Florida. 32625
The Cedar Key Historical Museum is a hidden gem in the heart of the beautiful island of Cedar Key on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Uncover fascinating stories of how this coastal community has evolved over various periods - all while marveling at its captivating charm.
Resilience and Strength are Hallmarks of the History of Cedar Key!
Learn more about how the beginning of the Cedar Key Historical Society
Click the About Us -Past & Present button below.
This is a content preview space you can use to get your audience interested in what you have to say so they can’t wait to learn and read more. Pull out the most interesting detail that appears on the page and write it here.
We are excited to provide our readers with regular website updates, more history, and event information. We also aim to bridge the gap between past and present through engaging interactive media like, photos, videos, and audio recordings that bring Cedar Key's history to life.
The Cedar Key Historical Society is proud to bring oral histories from cassette tapes in their archives to their website to be enjoyed online.
Many recordings are well over 40 years old and on cassette tape, which deteriorates over time. However, preserving and remastering to WAV.files for easy listening over modern/mobile devices provides an incredible opportunity to share these significant.
Voices of the Past.
Click the "Tune In" Button
The Cedar Key History Channel features videos about the history of Cedar Key and more...
The Cedar Key Archives holds thousands of photographs. View a selection at Cedar Key Memory.
Information pertaining to the Cedar Key Cemetery can be found here, with the interactive map!
Resilience and strength are hallmarks of Cedar Key's history.
Also, get a glimpse at museum exhibits and learn about their history.
The importance and value of the Cedar Key Historical Society members cannot be overstated. The non-profit organization depends heavily on the contributions and volunteerism of its members to carry out its mission of preserving and promoting the rich history of the Cedar Key islands and its surrounding areas.
They contribute their time and money to ensure this small coastal community remains a vibrant, historically relevant destination for visitors worldwide. Through donations, these individuals provide projects such as museum renovations, educational programs, and preservation efforts to become a reality.
Moreover, these hardworking individuals embody an invaluable spirit of cooperation that helps nurture a sense of community amongst members. Their shared enthusiasm for preserving Cedar Key's unique island history and surrounding area creates a sense of purpose that brings people together while helping them learn more about their personal histories and those around them.
Overall, it is clear that the Cedar Key Historical Society could not exist without its members and volunteers; these individuals are essential to its success and help maintain an important part of Florida's history for current and future generations to enjoy.
Our members have enjoyed special benefits in the past, and this year we are thrilled to reveal something even better! We offer several membership packages with unique advantages. Click on the link below for details - join or renew today and know you're making an invaluable contribution to our worthy cause.
The Cedar Key Historical Museum is a paradise for tourists, where thousands of guests visit each year. As an enthusiastic volunteer at the museum, you'll get to spread your joy and passion about this island oasis with new arrivals! With its self-guided tour feature, anyone can join in - no need to be an expert on Cedar Key's history; all we ask is that you love being here as much as we do.
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A private tour is a unique way to spend an afternoon or evening! Contact us to reserve an after-hours tour with one of our knowledgeable tour guides. All private tours are during our close hours. $5 per person with a minimum of 10 persons required.
609 2nd Street, Cedar Key, Florida 32625, United States
Contact Anna White Hodges Director@cedarkeyhistory.org 352-949-2733
Today | Closed |
Private Tours are Available Contact Director for More Info
This site copyright @2022 The Cedar Key Historical Society Inc. Website Developed and Maintained By -Anna White Hodges- Executive Director
Website Developer Anna White Hodges
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