Did you know that there is a small city in Florida called the capital of Cuba? It is located in Gadsden County, just 14 miles north of Tallahassee and is known as Town of Havana.
It has a population of 1,733 inhabitants. It’s small, but full of history and quirks that make it a fascinating destination for curious travelers.
The town was founded at the beginning of the 20th century, after the completion of a railroad for the Georgia, Florida and Alabama Railroad.
Families who had originally settled in nearby Salem decided to move about a mile east, to the present site of Havana.
The railroad played a crucial role in the development of the town, as did the Havana Community Park, located on East 6th Avenue.
The name “Havana” was proposed by local master James Mathewson, inspired by the shade tobacco used in fine cigars, as that was the main crop in the area at that time.
Cuban tobacco had begun to be grown in the county around 1829, and the hand-wrapped cigars made in this region of Florida were comparable to those in Havana, Cuba.
On December 5, 1906, the Town of Havana was recognized as a city in Florida. However, it suffered a fire in 1916, in which much of the commercial area was destroyed. The settlers rebuilt the city and managed to make it prosper.
Tobacco crops decreased over time and the town reinvented itself. Today Town of Havana is known for its numerous antique shops, art galleries, restaurants and specialty shops.
Visitors can stroll its streets, explore its quaint shops, and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of its community.
Town of Havana It is more than a tourist destination, it is a place where every corner tells a story. From its roots in the tobacco industry to its transformation into an art and antiques center. Havana, Florida, offers a fascinating glimpse into a past full of character and charm.
