The Gilded Age Families Who Built South Florida (Documentary)

Although these days, South Florida is known for beaches and nightlife, the Gilded Age Families who help build the region from an under explored wilderness to a bustling cultural capital have many stories to tell in this full-length, in-depth documentary.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

The Gilded Age Families Who Built Los Angeles (Documentary):    • The Gilded Age Families Who Built Los...  

-------------------------------------------------------------------

The “Old Money” Families Who Built New York (Documentary):    • The “Old Money” Families Who Built Ne...  

-------------------------------------------------------------------

TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Introduction
Henry Flagler and His Family
Julia Tuttle: The Mother of Miami
The Brickell Family: Founders of Wealthy Miami

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Henry Flagler, often hailed as one of the founding fathers of Florida, was a pivotal figure in the development of the southeastern coast of the United States.

His vision and investments transformed Florida’s east coast into a vibrant series of resort towns and cities, linked by his Florida East Coast Railway.

Flagler's legacy is intertwined with the grand hotels he built in St. Augustine, Palm Beach, and Miami, which helped establish the region as a winter haven for the wealthy northerners of the Gilded Age.

Julia Tuttle, known as "The Mother of Miami," holds the unique distinction of being the only female founder of a major American city.

Her foresight and determination were instrumental in convincing Henry Flagler to extend his railroad to the area that would eventually become Miami.

Tuttle owned citrus groves in the region and famously sent orange blossoms to Flagler during a winter freeze to prove that Miami had a uniquely warm climate, which influenced his decision to expand his railway and develop the city.

The Brickell family, pioneers and key players in Miami's early development, contributed significantly to the region’s growth. Mary Brickell, alongside her husband William, initially acquired land south of the Miami River.

They developed this land by creating residential lots and selling them to newcomers, which eventually led to the establishment of the Brickell neighborhood, known today as one of Miami’s most affluent areas. Their real estate ventures and strategic foresight were crucial in shaping Miami into a thriving urban center.

Together, these figures underscore the dynamic history of Miami, from a remote outpost to a bustling metropolis, each playing a distinct role in its development through their unique contributions and visionary actions.

Their legacies continue to influence Miami’s cultural and economic landscape today.