On May 10, 1887, DeSoto County was created out of Manatee County. Arcadia began as a small settlement located on a bluff overlooking the Peace River. Mr. Harris Raulerson transported potatoes from this landing, for resale elsewhere, in his side-wheeler steamboat. Pioneers began to call it Tater Hill Bluff. James “Boss” Hendry was a lumberman and a Baptist preacher. In the process of moving his sawmill byox drawn wagon, he stayed overnight at the home of Thomas Albritton, afellow Baptist. Learning that Hendry’s birthday fell on the following day, Mrs. Albritton and her young daughter Arcadia baked a cake for him. Touched by their kindness, Hendry, predicted that a town would grow in the area of the bluff and he promised to have it named Arcadia.

In the late 1870’s, the railroads were completed and had a great impactonArcadia and DeSoto County by increasing its growth and bringing wealth to many of its settlers. Cattle played an important part in the economy of DeSoto County from the beginning. In the early 1890’s, the infamous cattle wars began and lasted for several years.

During this time, Arcadia was known as one of the wildest towns in Florida.

By the 1900’s, a business district had been built. Thanksgiving 1905 was a disastrous day in Arcadia’s history. A fire of unknown origin engulfed the business district and destroyed more than 40 wooden buildings. Soon after many buildings were rebuilt and a new district rose from the ashes with safer materials.

Most buildings seen today are those built after the 1905 fire by courageous men who planned for the city’s future.

Today, downtown “Arcadia” hosts over 30 antique and specialty shops, several restaurants and professional business offices. With few exceptions most buildings built after the 1905 fire still stand today.



Thank you to the Desoto County Historical Society and Mr. Howard Milton