Lakeland’s history stretches back nearly 150 years, with countless organizations and people adding to its story over time. Many of those stories are kept alive today through historical markers found all over the city.
One historical marker recognizes the Acton community, which was known as a rival to Lakeland. English settlers founded the town in 1884, one year before Lakeland’s incorporation, and it lasted just 10 years. It was known for its depot on the South Florida Railroad line — which mysteriously burned down in the late 1880s.
Acton didn’t last much longer, with its 200 residents leaving it as a ghost town after a harsh winter in 1894. Today, you can find its historical marker at the corner of East Memorial Boulevard + Interlachen Parkway. It was erected in 1961 by the Florida Board of Parks and Historic Memorials.
The Junior League of Greater Lakeland is known for philanthropy projects, including the Lakeland Christmas Parade and World of Reading Festival.
Photo via @aftonlorenz
Look out for another historical marker as you walk around Lake Morton. There you’ll find the Sorosis Building, where the City of Lakeland Historic Preservation Board + the Florida Department of State erected a historical marker in 2001.
A women’s sorority called the Sorosis Club was formed in 1922, but it needed a home to meet up at. In 1925, they purchased a plot of land by the lake, had a local architect named W.B. Talley design an Italian Renaissance-style clubhouse, and had it built by 1927. Keep an eye out for a goldenrod motif around the building’s exterior — it’s the official flower of the Sorosis Club.
The building is still part of Swan City sisterhood today, as it’s home to the Junior League of Greater Lakeland. If you want to bring a piece of history into your future, it’s also available to rent for weddings.
Do you know of a historical marker near you that deserves a highlight? Suggest a sign and it may be featured next.
