Archaeological evidence exists that pre historic
aboriginals visited the Safety Harbor area as early as 3000 BC. The first
recorded sighting of present day was made by Francisco De Garay who sailed into
the bay area from Jamaica in 1519.
The
first settler Odet Philippe and his family came from the Bahamas and started a
citrus plantation in the late 1830's, other homesteaders followed. Philippe
expanded his plantation and businesses in the area when he imported tobacco seed
from Cuba and became the first cigar maker in the Tampa Bay region. He even
sold fish to the US Army during the Second Seminole War.
Property Listings around Safety Harbor
Another
early settler was Colonel William J Bailey. He purchased the mineral springs on
the shores of Tampa Bay in 1856. The area became known as Bailely by the Sea or
Green Springs. The establishment of a tourist and health resort in combination
with the railroad helped the development of the area and Safety Harbor became a
town in 1917. Safety Harbor Property
Listings
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Visitors
arrived by ferry from Tampa and by stagecoach from Clearwater to bathe in the
Espiritu Santo Springs. Many medical doctors discussed the healing effects of
the natural spring. Philippe Park with it gnarled oak trees stands as the first
layer of mysticism and magic that springs forth from the city of Safety Harbor.
In 1945 the Safety Harbor Sanatorium and Hotel became The Safety Harbor Spa is a
landmark that anchors the town to the bay and to a passion for good health.
Realeatate in Safety Harbor
You can feel the
holism and heightened consciousness in the area. There are psychics and
astrologers and boutiques, gift shops, restaurants and galleries crowded around
the city parks. Every third week there is downtown music festival in the park.
Safety Harbor draws a thriving artist community and their work brightens walls
and yards throughout the downtown area with changing exhibits right on Main
Street.
This is a must see town, one that you can enjoy to the fullest.
If you are an artist it will be right up your alley. It is a great family
area. Come and see. Safety Harbor Real Estate
If
you come you will not want to leave.
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