Add MY Family To This Page

flag  History of Pensacola, Florida, USA

Journey back in time to Pensacola, Florida, USA

Visit Pensacola, Florida, USA. Discover its history. Learn about the people who lived there through stories, old newspaper articles, pictures, postcards and ancestry.

Do You Have Pensacola Roots? Share MY Ancestral Story!

Pensacola, Florida, USA - Pensacola, Florida, USA - Pensacola Light House, 1905

Pensacola, Escambia, FL

Pensacola is nicknamed "The City of Five Flags", due to the five governments that have ruled it during its history: the flags of Spain (Castile), France, Great Britain, the United States of America and the Confederate States of America. Other nicknames include "World's Whitest Beaches" (due to the white sand of Florida panhandle beaches), "Cradle of Naval Aviation", "Western Gate to the Sunshine State", "America's First Settlement", "Emerald Coast", "Red Snapper Capital of the World", and "P-Cola".


kids.kiddle.co

There is MUCH more to discover about Pensacola, Florida, USA. Read on!

Pensacola Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Pensacola, Florida, USA - Pensacola Light House, 1905
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Pensacola Light House, 1905
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Fort Mc Rae
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Fort Mc Rae
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Life Saving Station on Santa Rosa Island, Pensacola, Fla., 1907
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Life Saving Station on Santa Rosa Island, Pensacola, Fla., 1907
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Y.M.C.A., 1907
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Y.M.C.A., 1907
Pensacola, Florida, USA - 1908 advertisement

M. A. Baker & Co. Manufacturers
Seamless Turpentine Stills
Pensacola, Fla.
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Advertisement
Pinterest    
1908 advertisement

M. A. Baker & Co. Manufacturers
Seamless Turpentine Stills
Pensacola, Fla.

The Pensacola Journal
Pensacola, Florida
July 4, 1908
Pensacola, Florida, USA - The Casino. Florida's Newest Playground. Pensacola, Florida
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
The Casino. Florida's Newest Playground. Pensacola, Florida
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Elks' Hall and Osceola Club House
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Elks' Hall and Osceola Club House
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Historic Fort San Carlos and Fort Barrancas
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Historic Fort San Carlos and Fort Barrancas
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Taking Logs up to Mill to be sawed into Lumber, Pensacola, Fla.
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Taking Logs up to Mill to be sawed into Lumber, Pensacola, Fla.
Pensacola, Florida, USA - San Carlos Hotel
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
San Carlos Hotel
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Sun and Surf Bathing on the Beautiful White Sands at Pensacola Beach, Fla.
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Sun and Surf Bathing on the Beautiful White Sands at Pensacola Beach, Fla. "On the Gulf of Mexico"
Pensacola, Florida, USA - McIlwain Memorial Presbyterian Church
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
McIlwain Memorial Presbyterian Church
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Azalea Motel
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Azalea Motel
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Sanders Beach
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Sanders Beach
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Scenic Highway along Pensacola Bay
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Scenic Highway along Pensacola Bay
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Palafox Street
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Palafox Street
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Aerial View of Pensacola
Navy Planes over Pensacola, Fla.
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Aerial View of Pensacola
Navy Planes over Pensacola, Fla.
Pensacola, Florida, USA - Boat Basin, U.S. Naval Air Station
Pensacola, Florida, USA

Postcard
Pinterest    
Boat Basin, U.S. Naval Air Station

Discover Pensacola: History, News, Travel, and Stories

Add informationAdd History/News/Story
1559 - August 14 - Spanish explorer de Luna lands in Pensacola Bay,Fla
historyorb.com

1559 - Hurricane wrecks Spanish expedition
A Spanish fleet of 74 ships sent to recapture Florida sailed into a hurricane. Most of the fleet was sunk, but one ship survived and founded a colony near Pensacola, Fla.

Hurricane timeline: 1495 to 1800
Sun Sentinel
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
www.sun-sentinel.com
1698 - Pensacola founded
First established by Don Tristán de Luna y Arellano in 1559; abandoned in 1561. Permanently established in 1698.
wikipedia.org
1812 - War of 1812
During the War of 1812, Spain allowed Britain to use Pensacola as a naval base.

www.e-referencedesk.com/ resources/state-history-timeline/ florida.html
1814 - Naval Base Captured
American troops captured the naval base in Pensacola.

www.e-referencedesk.com/ resources/state-history-timeline/ florida.html
1854 - Pensacola
Pensaco'la, a port of entry and capital of Escambia county, Florida, is situated on the W. shore of Pensacola bay, about 10 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, 64 miles E. from Mobile, and 180 miles in a direct line W. from Tallahassee. The harbor will admit only vessels of light draft, but it is one of the safest in the Gulf. The shore, which is low and sandy, rises gently to the height of about 40 feet. The plan of the town is regular, and the streets are wide. It contains several churches, a market house, custom house, and 3 newspaper offices. The United States Government has established a naval station here...

The clearances for foreign ports were 19, tons 3996, of which 3450 were in American bottoms. Population, in 1850, 2164.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.
1861 - September 13 - 1st naval battle of Civil War, Union frigate "Colorado" sinks privateer "Judah" off Pensacola, Fla

historyorb.com
September 13, 1861
February 13, 1889 - It was the coldest morning of record along the Gulf Coast. The temperature dipped to 7 above zero at Pensacola FL.

WeatherForYou.com
1893 - Yellow Jack
Its Appearance at Pensacola, Fla., Officially Reported

PENSACOLA, Fla., Aug. 9. - The Escambia county board of health issued the following official paper: 'The board of health regrets to announce that two deaths have occurred in this city, that of Rev. F. C. Waite and Ellen Wood, both pronounced yellow fever. The houses have been isolated, the bedding and all clothing destroyed and all necessary precautions taken to prevent spreading of the fever.'

This created almost a panic and at least 1500 people left the city by tonight's trains.
genealogybank.com
Idaho Statesman
Idaho
August 10, 1893
1895 - Pensacola
Pensaco'la, a port of entry and the capital of Escambia co., Fla., on the N. shore of Pensacola Bay, about 10 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, and 50 miles direct S.E. of Mobile. It is the southern terminus of the Pensacola division of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad, which connects with the Mobile & Montgomery Railroad at Pensacola Junction (Flomaton); is the eastern terminus of the Pensacola & Perdido Railroad, extending to Millview, on Perdido Bay; the southern terminus of the Pensacola, Alabama & Tennessee Railroad, and the western terminus of the Pensacola & Atlantic Railroad. The harbor has 24 feet of water on the bar, and is one of the safest in the Gulf of Mexico. The entrance of it is defended by Fort Pickens and Fort Barrancas. Pensacola has a custom-house, a convent, 20 churches, 2 newspaper offices, and several saw: mills. Steamers ply regularly between Pensacola and Mobile and Havana. Pop, in 1880,6845; in 1890, 11,750. The Pensacola navy-yard is at Warrington, 7 miles... Read MORE...

1906
Pensacola, a city, port of entry, and the capital of Escambia co., Fla., on the N. shore of Pensacola Bay, about 10 miles from the Gulf of Mexico and 50 miles (direct) SE. of Mobile, on the Louisville and Nashville (Pensacola division) and the Pensacola, Alabama and Tennessee Rs. It has a deep harbor, which is one of the safest in the Gulf of Mexico. The entrance to it is defended by Forts Pickens, McRae, and Barrancas. Pensacola has large grain-elevators and an extensive shipping trade in ship-lumber, fish, hides, wool, cotton, and naval-stores. Among its notable public buildings are the federal building, state armorey, and opera-house. Pop. in 1880, 6845; in 1890, 11,750; in 1900, 17,747. The Pensacola navy-yard is at Warrington, 7 miles to seaward of the town.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906
1906 - DELUGE FOLLOWS FATAL HURRICANE; USE STREET BOATS. THIRTY KNOWN DEAD NEAR PENSACOLA, WITH LOSS OF $8,000,000.
Pensacola, Fla., (via Flomaton, Ala., by courier)
Sept. 29. - Flood followed hurricane wind, and rain this morning, and the city tonight is nearly submerged. Seven and one-half inches of rain fell in a little over three hours and the main streets of the city were turned into veritable rivers by this tremendous downpour. In some instances the water is shoulder deep. First floor cellars and many residences were deluged. Business is at a standstill. Debris of every description is floating through the streets, being the mute messengers of the terrible West Indian hurricane of last Thursday.
Unique and quaint methods are being devised to go from one part of the city to another. Small boats, bathing suits, rafts, and like methods are being used.

From the latest reports obtainable the list of dead in this vicinity number at least thirty. The damage will total, at the lowest estimate $8,000,000, as a result of the recent storm and flood.

The following list of the dead has been revised ... Read MORE...

1917 - September 28 - A hurricane hit Pensacola, FL. Winds gusted to 95 mph, and the barometric pressure dipped to 28.50 inches.

The Weather Channel
1926 - Five Believed Buried Under Factory Ruins Firemen Continue to battle $200,000 Blaze Started by Blast
Ten Are Injured In Mystery Accident
Cause of Tragedy Undetermined by Heads of Business

Pensacola, Fla., Jan. 2.-(AP)-With the known dead numbering twelve, ten injured in hospitals and five workmen missing, firemen continued tonight to battle flames which resulted today when a fire retort at the Newport Tar and Turpentine company exploded, with expectation that the bodies of the missing would be recovered from the ruins.

Fire officials estimated the damage to the property at $200,000. The blast which came a little more than an hour after the plant opened today, demolished one unit of the large plant in which 22 men were working. Flames spread in the resinous premises and soon engulfed other units. Some of those who were injured were believed to have been standing near the unit which exploded and were caught before they could flee to safety.

The cause of the explosion was undetermined tonight. Many of those killed were badly mutilated and some of the bodies are still in the... Read MORE...

1926 - September 20 - A hurricane which hit Miami, FL, on the 18th, pounded Pensacola with wind gusts to 152 mph. Winds raged in excess of 100 mph for four hours, and above 75 mph for 20 hours.

The Weather Channel
1954 - January 13 - WEAR TV channel 3 in Pensacola-Mobile, FL (ABC) begins broadcasting

historyorb.com
Here are some of the best places to go and things to do in Pensacola:
1. Pensacola Beach:

Pensacola Beach: One of the main draws of the area, Pensacola Beach boasts sugar-white sand and crystal-clear waters. Whether you want to relax on the beach, swim, or try your hand at various water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing, this is the place to be.

Fishing: Pensacola Beach is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. You can cast your line from the Pensacola Beach Gulf Fishing Pier or book a charter for deep-sea fishing.

Quietwater Beach Boardwalk: This boardwalk is a hub of activity, with shops, restaurants, and live music. It's a great place to stroll and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

2. Historic Pensacola Village:

Historic Pensacola Village: Immerse yourself in Pensacola's rich history by visiting this meticulously restored historic district. Explore historic homes, museums, and learn about the city's colonial past.

T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum: Located in the historic district, this museum showcases the... Read MORE...

Discover MY Roots: Pensacola Ancestry

Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Pensacola, Florida, USA

We currently have information about 61 ancestors who were born or died in Pensacola.

View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)



Genealogy Resources for Pensacola

Our Pensacola Gift Ideas

Buy it NOW!

Freedom to Read - Embrace the Forbidden: Unlock Your Mind With Banned Books - Ceramic Mug

Dive into a world where curiosity knows no bounds with our collection of banned books. Explore the forbidden narratives that challenge norms, spark debates, and broaden perspectives. Why settle for the ordinary when you can embark on a literary adventure that pushes boundaries?

Florida Survival Skills: Alligator Spotter and Hurricane Hero Ceramic Mug

Embrace your Floridian flair with our ceramic mug that tells the world, "I'm from Florida! That explains a lot about my skill in spotting alligators lurking in every body of water and ability to survive hurricanes with a margarita in hand." This mug is perfect for those who navigate life with a touch of humor and a whole lot of resilience.

Patriotic Memories: Memorial Day Vintage Postcard Coffee Mug

Remembering the Brave, Honoring the Fallen Celebrate the spirit of Memorial Day with this stunning ceramic coffee mug featuring vintage postcards commemorating the holiday. Perfect for honoring the brave men and women who served, this mug is both a functional keepsake and a nostalgic work of art. Whether you're sipping your morning coffee or enjoying an afternoon tea, this dishwasher-safe and microwave-friendly mug is a timeless way to show your patriotism. Ideal as a gift for veterans, history buffs, or anyone who cherishes American traditions, this mug makes Memorial Day even more meaningful.
Not the place you are looking for? Try again!

Search for MY Family by Place

To search for a place, specify place name below. Choose name from the list. Then SEARCH.
*Place Name:


Our Genealogy Gift Ideas

Visit Our Store

Ancestry Family Tree Search

Search for MY Family by Name

NOTE: If you don't know your ancestor's whole name or are unsure of the spelling, specify part of the name.

First Name:
*Last Name:
Gender:
Born (+/- 2 years):
Died (+/- 2 years):
Match all terms exactly:

Updated: 9/26/2023 9:18:07 PM