DISCOVER the HISTORIC DISTRICT

Sanford has two historic districts listed on the National Register of Historic Place

THE COMMERCIAL HISTORIC DISTRICT WAS LISTED ON THE NATIONAL REGISTER IN 1976 and has 26 contributing buildings, dating from 1877–1924. The Old Sanford Residential Historic District was listed on the National Register in 1989 and contains 434 buildings in a wide range of historic architectural styles including Craftsman, Prairie, Queen Anne, Folk Victorian, National, Colonial Revival, Spanish Eclectic, and Mission. There are many communities within the downtown corridor of the city of Sanford. This article will feature the residential Historic District.

The Historic District is one of the more popular and well known communities within the city. The residential Historic District’s close proximity to the Commercial Historic District, the Lake Monroe waterfront, and the Sanford marina make it a wonderful and convenient place to live. The oak-lined, brick-paved streets are reminiscent of times past. Picket fences, front porches, and rocking chairs appear on every block.

Many residents take advantage of the Saturday morning Farmers Market in Magnolia Square restaurants, art galleries, shops, and bars all within a short walk, bike ride, or golf cart ride from their homes. If you’re planning to go to Orlando or the neighboring communities, the SunRail station makes these places accessible for commuting. The Orlando International Airport is 35 minutes away and the Orlando-Sanford International Airport is only 10 minutes away. Beaches and theme parks are within an hour drive. Sanford is simply one of the most conveniently situated areas in central Florida

The residential Historic District runs primarily from the alley of Elm Avenue to the alley of Palmetto and then from 3rd Street through 13th Street. Since being declared a Historic District in 1989, the community has flourished because of many dedicated residents devoting years to the restoration of their historic homes. Homes within the district date from the late 1800s to the early 1900s and all exterior renovations are guided by the City of Sanford Historic District guidelines. Many are surprised by the affordable housing the district offers to historic home lovers, and there is a unique selection of homes in various stages of renovation. The Historic District boasts four city parks, a cultural arts center, and a history museum within its boundaries.

The community is made up of an eclectic group of folks who are passionate about their city. Residents of the Historic District have been the creators and driving force behind such local events as Alive After 5, Celery Soup, Love Your Shorts Film Festival, St. Johns River Art Festival and the Sanford Historic Trust Home Tour.

Maria will be hosting a free walking tour one Friday a month (fourth Friday coincides with the Welcome Center’s monthly Art Walk). The tour will begin at 4:00 p.m. and will last approximately one hour. The first tour will take place on May 22, 2015 in recognition of Historic Preservation Month! For more information or to make reservation please contact Maria S. Shreve at housegirl905@gmail.com. Space is limited so make your reservations today!