Key West and Lower Keys

Key West and Lower Keys

History of Key West

Key West's long and colorful past begins with its European discovery in 1513 by Ponce de Leon. The island was first known as Cayo Hueso (Isle of Bones) because upon its discovery, the island was littered with remains from an Indian battlefield or burial ground. The term "Key" is most likely an Anglicization of Cayo. It isn't clear if "West" is derived from Hueso (pronounced way-so) or if the term "West" has to do with the geographical location of Key West. Regardless of how it got its name, today Key West is probably the best-known small town on the planet - rumored to fit into New York's Central Park.

The first permanent occupancy in the City occurred in 1822, complete with a small naval depot, whose purpose was to rid the area of pirates. The presence of the U.S. Navy has been a major factor in the growth and development of Key West ever since.

Prosperity has been cyclical in Key West. The city was incorporated in 1828, four years after becoming the county seat of Monroe County. Thereafter, the city grew and prospered with the fishing and cigar manufacturing industries flourishing. Other prosperous economic activities included salvaging ships, sponging and related commercial functions. By 1890, Key West was the largest and richest city in Florida. However, after the turn of the century its major industries were in decline. The City saw a steady decline in population between 1919 and 1935.

But World War II brought prosperity back to Key West. The population more than doubled between 1940 and 1960. But the boom was short lived. Nationwide military base closings and personnel reductions beginning in the 1960's were major contributors to the City's second major cycle of population decline. After recording the highest number of residents in its history in 1960, Key West experienced over a 25% loss in population by 1980. The 1990 Census showed a slight increase.

Today, tourism is the leading industry of the city. In 1996, Key West received an estimated 1.3 million visitors. Tourists are attracted by the weather - an annual average temperature of 77 degrees that rarely varies more than 10 degrees in either direction. Visitors also come for the diving - the third largest coral reef in the world is located seven miles off the shore of the Keys. And in the historical district -dubbed "Old Town"-guests to the island will find historic homes built by ship builders and cigar makers. Some of the most spectacular sunsets can be viewed nightly at Mallory Square, where hundreds of people gather alongside musicians, jugglers, and street performers to witness the nightly solar ritual.

Key West has attracted generations of artists and writers who have popularized the mythology of the island. Key West has been home to Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Elizabeth Bishop, John Ciardi, John Hersey, Richard Wilbur, Philip Caputo, Alison Lurie, James Merrill, and Thomas McGuane. More Pulitzer Prize winners have lived in Key West per capita than in any other city worldwide.

Key West is a city that celebrates itself, its rich history, and its colorful diversity. Festivals punctuate the tourist season, while fishing tournaments, literary seminars, world premier plays, arts festivals, house and garden tours, and yacht races occur year-round. From delicious cuisine, delightful shopping, world-class diving, and flavorful history, Key West offers unlimited, sun-drenched hospitality and entertainment.

It's easy to see why President Harry Truman, relaxing in his summer White House, once wrote, "I've a notion to move the capital to Key West and just stay."