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Joyce's Reputation Hangs on One Word...SOLD
Punta Gorda FL Area GuideWelcome to Punta Gorda! Punta Gorda is a city in Charlotte County, Florida. The city is a welcoming and friendly community, full of beautiful Florida sunshine. As of 2007, Punta Gorda had a population of approximately 16,762 people. It is the county seat of Charlotte County and the only incorporated municipality in the county. Punta Gorda is the principal city of the Punta Gorda, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area and of Sarasota-Bradenton-Punta Gorda Combined Statistical Area. Punta Gorda History In 1887, just 12 years after the first settlers trekked to Charlotte Harbor, 34 men met to discuss incorporation. Once Punta Gorda was officially incorporated, mayoral elections took place and a council was formed. Four of the five council members elected were not American citizens, and the remaining councilman was a native of Florida, Albert Gilchrist. In 1925, a bungalow was built by Joseph Blanchard, an African-American sea captain and fisherman. The Blanchard House still stands as a museum, representing middle-class African-American life in the area. Exhibits cover political, civic and religious life; founding families; education; and the Civil Rights Movement through vintage photos, newspaper clippings and family heirlooms. Punta Gorda in the 20th century still maintained steady growth. Charlotte County was formed in 1921 after DeSoto County was split. Also in 1921, the first bridge was constructed connecting Punta Gorda and Charlotte Harbor along the brand-new Tamiami Trail. This small bridge was replaced by the Barron Collier Bridge in 1931, and then by the current bridge crossing the Peace River. In 2004, Punta Gorda was extensively damaged by Hurricane Charley, damage that included many of its homes, structures and historic landmarks. However, a revitalization of Punta Gorda took place in the immediate years following the storm that resulted in buildings being restored or built to hurricane resistant building codes. The new buildings, remarkable restorations and exciting amenities concurrently preserved the City's past while showcasing state-of-the art modern facilities. Punta Gorda Parks and Recreation
Laishley Park Municipal Marina The City of Punta Gorda proudly unveiled its new Marina spring of 2007. The celebration featured a ribbon-cutting by City of Punta Gorda officials and many events throughout the two days. The new Marina is located in Laishley Park on the shoreline of Charlotte Harbor and the Peace River. Charlotte Harbor, the second largest harbor in the State of Florida, offers world-class fishing and access into the Gulf of Mexico at the vicinity of Boca Grande. The Marina has 85 boat slips and a public boat launch. It features a Ship Store which offers a broad selection of fishing equipment and accessories, groceries, prepared sandwiches, beer, wine and a wide choice of beverages. The Ship Store also sells a wide variety of clothing suitable for fishing in any weather condition. The new Marina also has a Day Room for a shower and cleanup and has Boater’s Bathrooms which include showers. It also includes a large Community Room which is intended for use by community groups, private functions and civic and corporate meetings. The new Marina is the first phase of the complete renovation of Laishley Park by the City of Punta Gorda. Punta Gorda Events and Attractions
The mission of the Military Heritage Museum is to promote an understanding and respect for the rich military heritage of the United States and the sacrifices made by our country’s veterans, living and dead, emphasizing that freedom is not free. The Guild first began to offer classes in painting and drawing. The first juried art exhibition, the Harvest of Art 1988 was held at the First Federal Bank. The largest gallery is named for First Federal, one of the early large donors. The second Harvest was the first art show ever in the new Visual Arts Center and remains the longest running annual exhibit; the 20th Anniversary was November 2008. The exhibit schedule is now varied and on view all year—juried, judged, themed, member only and exhibits open to any artist. The center has hosted a Biennial National Art Exhibition since 1998 which attracts artists from all over. The next is scheduled for 2010. Please click here for the Punta Gorda events calendar
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The first settlers, the Howard brothers, came to Charlotte Harbor in the late 19th century, about a decade after the close of the American Civil War. Less than ten years after the first settlements in the area, railroads came into town, and with them came the first land developers and Southwest Florida’s first batch of tourists.
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Punta Gorda is home to many excellent events and attractions that are sure to keep you are your family busy throughout the year. Come visit the Military Heritage Museum or the wonderful Visual Arts Center.
