In the year 1870, a father and son duo named Henry Lum and Charles set sail on a magnificent voyage along the southeastern coast of Florida what is today South beach. As fate would have it, they stumbled upon a breathtaking island that left them awe-inspired. Recognizing its potential, they wasted no time and purchased most of the island and surrounding property from the federal government at a mere cost of $0.25 per acre. this is how south beach was born.
Sometime later, Lum decided to sell the land to Elnathan Field and Ezra Osborne, who hailed from the beautiful state of New Jersey. In due course, the property changed hands once again, finding its way into the ownership of John S. Collins and his son-in-law, Thomas Pancoast, also proud residents of New Jersey.
Miami Beach 1915
Fast forward to the year 1913, when Collins and a gentleman named Carl Fisher, who had amassed his fortune through the successful sale of his invention and the prestigious Indianapolis Motor Speedway, embarked on a grand agricultural venture upon the pristine beachfront land. Fisher generously provided Collins with the necessary funds to construct the first bridge connecting Miami to Miami Beach. This monumental wooden bridge, the longest of its kind at the time, served as the catalyst for the incorporation of Miami Beach in 1915.
The roaring 1920s ushered in an era of unprecedented growth, with Miami Beach experiencing a tremendous boom. Even in the face of the Great Depression, the area witnessed the construction of numerous small hotels along lower Collins Avenue and Ocean Drive, thanks to the dedication of visionary individuals from the northeastern United States. This building spree played a pivotal role in revitalizing the region, eventually giving rise to the renowned Art Deco District, now internationally known as the iconic “South Beach” or “SoBe.”
Have a memorable visit by staying at the Henrosa Art Deco Hotel that is located on 1435 Collins Avenue. For reservations call (786) 583 0400.