Not many cities in Florida can boast of being around for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. The history of Ocala, Florida, dates back long before recorded events.
Today, Ocala has a renewed growth due to its central location and city planners looking to the future.
How Did Ocala Get Its Name?
Most historians agree that the name Ocala is a form of the name of a city named Ocale, which was inhabited by Native Americans long before the Spanish explorers of the 1500s. Hernando de Soto wanted to visit this tribal town of the Ocale because it was rumored to be full of gold and silver. An alternative theory is that Ocala got its name from the Timucuan Indian word “Ocali”, which meant “Big Hammock”.
What is Ocala Florida known for?
Ocala Florida is known for its rich history dating back thousands of years. Over the past two centuries, Ocala has been known for phosphate mining, citrus crops, and unique 19th century building techniques, leading to the name “Brick City”. At one time Ocala was the 5th largest city in Florida. Currently, Ocala is considered the “Horse Capital of the World”.
Historical Timeline of the History of Ocala, Florida
12,000 years before Columbus – Artifacts in the Silver River Museum date back long before Europeans discovered America. Those artifacts indicate Native American people were well-established in Marion County and may have been the very beginnings of the City of Ocala’s history.
1539-1540 – The history of Ocala, Florida, includes the belief that Hernando de Soto visited the area as part of his march through La Florida. Sites in Marion County have been discovered that indicate such a visit.
to Silver Springs over a decade ago.
1821 – The United States acquires Florida from Spain.
1827 – Fort King was established to protect settlers from Indian raids. It was a critical refuge during the Second Seminole War 1835-1842. The history of Ocala was forever changed as Fort King became central Ocala.
1843 – The military abandons Fort King. Settlers inhabit the fort. This was the beginning of the formation of downtown in the City of Ocala history.
1846 – Ocala becomes the county seat of the newly formed Marion County.
1852 – Silver Springs was founded and is an important attraction in the history of Ocala.
1865 – Civil War had decimated the Ocala economy. The population was down to 200 people.
1868 – Ocala incorporated as a town in Florida. The history of Ocala as a city was cemented in 1868.
1870 – The first census recorded 600 residents.
1876 – Rail service was established in Ocala.
1880 – The population was 803 people. Ulysses S. Grant visits Ocala after his presidency.
1883 – Fire destroys almost all of downtown Ocala. This was a major event in Ocala’s history. New construction of buildings included non-flammable materials like bricks and steel. Thus, Ocala, got the name “brick city”.
is preserved in Ocala.
1885 – Ocala Fire Department was created. It is now one of the oldest in the country.
1889 – Phosphate was discovered on the outskirts of Ocala. Business and population soared.
1890 – The Ocala Platform was adopted at the convention of the National Farmers Alliance and Industrial Union. Several political positions were generated, including direct election of senators by the people, abolition of national banks, a graduated income tax, and unlimited coinage of silver. Ocala’s political move made national headlines.
1890 – Population reaches 1895, making it the 5th-largest city in Florida.
1895 – 4597 residents counted in Ocala.
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