Auburndale 3

Auburndale, a city in central Florida’s Polk County, boasts a rich history and diverse landscape that captivates residents and visitors alike. Founded in the 1880s, Auburndale owes its existence to the railroad and its early development to the citrus industry. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its founders and current inhabitants.

The city’s origins can be traced back to Louis Randolph Mclain, a civil engineer working on the railroad extension between Lake Alfred and Saddle Creek. Mclain purchased 40 acres of land from Dr. Hartwell Howard and established a depot in January 1884. This strategic move attracted settlers and businesses, leading to the town’s incorporation on May 24, 1911. Next post here.

Auburndale’s early years were marked by rapid growth and challenges. The city faced two devastating fires, one in December 1911 and another in November 1913, which destroyed many of its original wooden structures. However, the community’s determination prevailed, and they rebuilt using brick, demonstrating their commitment to the town’s future.

The 1920s brought a significant population boom to Auburndale, with numbers swelling from 600 to 2,500 residents. This period saw the introduction of electricity, courtesy of Chester Hewit’s power plant in 1923, and the construction of new subdivisions to accommodate the influx of newcomers. The city also adopted a city manager form of government during this time, overseeing various civic improvements.

Geographically, Auburndale is situated within the Central Florida Highlands, part of the Atlantic coastal plain. The terrain is characterized by flat lands interspersed with gently rolling hills, creating a diverse and appealing landscape. The city encompasses a total area of 9.3 square miles, with a significant portion (43.87%) being water, highlighting the importance of lakes in the region’s geography.

Auburndale’s location places it at the heart of central Florida, approximately 40 miles northeast of Tampa and 59 miles southwest of Orlando. This strategic position has contributed to its growth and connectivity with other major urban centers in the state.

The city is surrounded by several notable neighboring towns, each with its own unique character. To the west lies Lakeland, known for its lakes and cultural attractions. Lake Alfred, with its antique shops and small-town charm, sits to the east. Winter Haven, famous for its Chain of Lakes and as the former home of Cypress Gardens (now Legoland Florida), is also nearby.

Landmarks and historical sites abound in and around Auburndale, offering glimpses into the area’s past. The historic Auburndale City Hall, built during the 1920s boom, stands as a testament to the city’s growth and civic pride. The Auburndale Citrus Growers Association Packing House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, serves as a reminder of the city’s agricultural heritage.

Nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers will appreciate the Lake Myrtle Sports Complex, a sprawling facility that hosts various sporting events and provides recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The complex exemplifies Auburndale’s commitment to promoting an active lifestyle and community engagement.

Transportation has played a crucial role in Auburndale’s development and continues to be vital to its economy. The city is served by major highways, including Interstate 4, which connects it to Tampa and Orlando, and the Polk Parkway (SR 570), providing quick access to surrounding areas. Railroads remain significant, with two major lines running through the city, though Amtrak does not currently stop here.

Auburndale’s climate is classified as humid subtropical, typical of central Florida. This climate supports the lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems that characterize the region, contributing to its appeal as a residential and tourist destination.

As Auburndale continues to grow and evolve, maintaining its beauty and cleanliness has become a priority for residents and city officials alike. Keeping the city clean not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the overall quality of life for its inhabitants. This is where services like Junk-It Near Me play a crucial role. By providing efficient and responsible junk removal services, Junk-It Near Me helps Auburndale residents and businesses maintain clean properties and public spaces. Their commitment to proper disposal and recycling aligns with the city’s goals of sustainability and environmental stewardship, ensuring that Auburndale remains a beautiful and healthy place to live for generations to come.

Learn more about Auburndale, FL.