Wesley Chapel originated in the mid-1800s as a cohesive community of settlers who demonstrated a uniquely rural authenticity and independence of spirit. Evidence of Native American presence in the area has been documented as early as 10;000 BC. Lumber harvesting and turpentine production became prominent industries; while cash-crop farming; citrus; and livestock ranching provided sustenance for the pioneer settlement. Charcoal kilns; gator hunting; and moonshine stills supplemented incomes and spawned legends. The community was also identified by the monikers Gatorville; Double Branch; and Godwin. From 1897 to 1902; Wesley Chapel boasted its own post office; two sawmills; and a general store. Primitive roads left residents with an informal town nucleus; and services shifted to surrounding towns until the late 20th century; when postal service and incorporation emerged; and the lumber trusts of John D. Rockefeller; Otto Hermann Kahn; and Edwin Wiley morphed into sizeable ranches.
2016-04-01 2016-04-01File Name: B01EC8UX3E
Review
