History of Zephyrhills, Florida, USA

Nov. 11, 1886. Simon J. Temple purchases 280.74 acres of land for $1,026.69 from Florida Railway and Navigation Corp. [He named the area Abbott; it later became Zephyrhills.]

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Aug. 6, 1909. The land for Zephyrhills is purchased for the Zephyrhills Colony by Capt. Jeffries, according to a 1928 newspaper article.

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May 31, 1910. The name of the Abbott post office is changed to Zephyrhills.

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Nov. 26, 1917 - Hotel Zephyr opens in Zephryhills

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Feb. 19, 1926. The Zephyrhills News reports, “Bandits entered The American State Bank Wednesday during the lunch hour, when it was closed, choked, bound and drugged the bookkeeper and escaped with approximately $11,000.00 in cash.”

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Mar. 15, 1940. The Dade City Banner reports: “A fire of undetermined origin destroyed the former Hennington building and three adjacent structures,
completely wiping out one of the business blocks of Zephyrhills last Saturday morning about one-thirty o'clock, during a period of high wind which quickly swept the buildings and caused a complete loss. The Dade City fire department responded to a call for assistance. However it and the Zephyrhills fire truck were unable to quench the flames, but by their efforts nearby buildings were saved.”
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In 1961, Don Robinson took advantage of the area's good-tasting water and established the Zephyrhills Water Corporation.
The company started bottling the spring water and shipping it all over the state. The town soon became well-known as "The City of Pure Water."
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2023 - If you're planning a visit to Zephyrhills, you'll find a variety of activities and places to explore. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your trip:
Outdoor Activities:

Skydiving: Zephyrhills is often called the "Skydiving Capital of the World." If you're an adrenaline junkie, you can experience the thrill of skydiving at one of the many skydiving centers in the area.

Zephyr Park: Zephyr Park is a local favorite for picnics, leisurely walks, and family gatherings. The park features playgrounds, a lake for fishing and feeding ducks, and shaded areas for relaxation.

Withlacoochee State Forest: This nearby forest offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, bird-watching, and horseback riding. With its serene landscapes and numerous trails, it's a nature lover's paradise.

Zephyrhills WaterVentures: If you're visiting with kids, Zephyrhills WaterVentures is an interactive educational center that provides hands-on learning experiences about Florida's water resources and ecosystems.

Golfing: Zephyrhills has several golf courses, including the Silverado Golf and Country Club and Southport Springs Golf... Read MORE...