Joseph Saraco
Sanford Area Guide
HISTORY
Indians of Timucuan tribe once lived on the shores of Lake Munroe but by 1760, they had been replaced by the Seminole Indians and Florida would eventually be acquired by the United States from Spain in 1821, but conflict between the Seminoles and the U.S. would delay settlement for a time.
When the Indians burned Port Palatka, a major artery into central Florida, the consequence was that an Army garrison was established upstream, originally called Camp Monroe. Attacked in 1837, the breastwork would be reinforced after the attack and the camp renamed Fort Mellon, in honor of Captain Charles Mellon, the only American casualty. By 1842, the town of Mellonville had been founded around Ft. Mellon by Daniel Stewart. Three years later, Florida had become a state and Mellonville had become the county seat of Orange City. Orange groves were planted and following behind, in 1869, the first fruit packing plant was built. 
“General” Henry Sanford bought over 12,000 acres to the west of Mellonville, who planned on his city becoming a transportation hub. Laying out the community of Sanford, he called it “The Gateway City to South Florida” and stayed permanently in 1877 with a population of 100 and incorporated that same year, absorbing Mellonville.
The South Florida Railroad ran a line from Tampa to Sanford, although the Jacksonville, Tampa and Key West Railroad ran a line to Jacksonville, making it the largest shipper of oranges in the world. By 1875, Sanford had determined that perhaps a resort might be a better opportunity and built The Sanford House, a lakeside hotel, in 1875, and expanded in 1882, with President Chester A. Arthur vacationing there in 1883.
In 1887, a devastating fire, followed by the Great Freeze of 1894 and 1895, ruined the citrus. Not to be deterred, farmers diversified by growing vegetables as well. Celery, first planted in 1896, gave Sanford its nickname of Celery City, a name it would keep in 1974. Becoming the county seat in 1913, agriculture continued to dominate the economy until 1940 when it proved less expensive to culture produce further south. http://www.ci.sanford.fl.us/history.aspx
In 1942, Naval Air Station Sanford was established, which conducted operational training for World War II. The base was inactivated and reduced to caretaker status in 1946, but was reactivated in 1950 in response to the Korean War and the Cold War. At its peak in the mid-1960s, the base was home to nearly 4000 military personnel, with squadrons that routinely deployed aboard large aircraft carriers to the Mediterranean and the Pacific.
As a result of the increasing costs, NAS Sanford was one of several stateside military installations identified for closure by the Department of Defense in 1967. Flight operations were rapidly scaled down during 1968 and the airfield was conveyed to the City of Sanford via quitclaim deed in 1969, to be renamed Orlando Sanford International Airport.. The Navy's presence is commemorated on the airport by two historical markers and the NAS Sanford Memorial Park, which was dedicated on Memorial Day in May 2003.
The opening of Walt Disney World in 1971 shifted the economy of Central Florida even more towards tourism and the city of Sanford retains a good portion of that. Its location on Lake Monroe and access to the navigable waterways has made it a prime destination, noted for its streets shaded by live oak trees hung with Spanish moss. Its beautiful locale has made it a hub of recreation, with tourism a major trade as well as a destination for several movies made in the area. http://www.ci.sanford.fl.us/
A city of more than 49,000 people, Sanford is the county seat of Seminole County and has become a resort area, home to a beautiful Botanical Garden and the Central Florida Zoo.
Sanford welcomes visitors and new residents with equal charm and grace, making it an ideal location for anyone wishing to enjoy Central Florida’s weather, resorts and ambiance. Come visit, you’ll see what we mean.
ATTRACTIONS 
http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-2841894-sanford_things_to_do-i
Rivership Romance
Imagine stained glass lamps, plush seating, comfort, and the beauty of the historic north-flowing St. Johns River, just waiting for you. A refurbished 1940's-style Great Lakes Steamer, Rivership Romance is used for both business meetings and leisure travelers.
Seminole Safari
This eco tour offers a full day's adventure as the safari blends fun and exploration into an exciting day in the backcountry devoted to nature, wildlife, history, and the land.
Sanford Museum
Opened in 1957, it features 19th century paintings, the library, and furniture of city founder Henry S. Sanford. Agriculture, business, naval aviation and sports exhibits are also on site. 
Mayfair Country Club
Mayfair Country Club is a fascinating short course. Originally conceived by Donald Ross, the course would appear to have nothing difficult about it at first glance. However, the challenge is soon seen. The club is open all year round.
American River Cruises
If you're in the mood for a romantic meal, consider a day trip aboard this 110-foot, three-deck cruise ship. American River Cruises offers a variety of cruises, ranging from a three-hour lunch excursion to a moonlight dinner and dance cruise.
Central Florida Police and Schutzhund Club
We welcome visitors and future members to come out and see what the Schutzhund Sport and the Central Florida Police and Schutzhund Club are all about.
http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-2841894-sanford_things_to_do-i
PARKS
Bookertown Park
This four acre neighborhood park offers an array of activities and features picnic areas, lighted basketball courts, a large pavilion, a children's playground, and a softball field. 
Sylvan Lake Park
Adjacent to the scenic 188 acre Sylvan Lake, recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, tennis, racquetball, volleyball, football, soccer, lacrosse, jogging, and hiking are available.
http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-2841894-sanford_things_to_do-i
Events
Martin Luther King Day parade and rally. - January
Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony - May
Star Spangled Sanford – 4th of July
Spooky Hollow – Halloween
Light UP – Sanford Tree Lighting Ceremony – December
http://www.ci.sanford.fl.us/media/pdf/events/2010_annual_events_20100408.pdf
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