The city of Miami got its start in 1895 when Henry M. Flagler, the railroad magnate, and the land-holding Tuttle and Brickell families formed a liaison at the mouth of the Miami River. Formerly known as Biscayne Bay Country, the Brickells operated a trading post and post office. Flagler developed the east coast of Florida beginning in St. Augustine in 1885. With the arrival of Flagler’s railroad, a land boom began and settlers came in droves, followed by a variety of businesses and a hotel. Growth continued, making Miami a major transportation, agricultural and tourist hub.
The Great Depression had a major impact on Miami and Miami Beach. The poor economy left hotels empty and lacking in tourists with money to spend.
By WWII, the US Government established a base to guard local waters and set up military schools and training fields. German U-boats were sinking vessels off the coast of Florida. The Navy had air stations around Miami, Homestead and West Palm Beach. The empty hotel rooms were filled with training military personnel, allied pilots and navigators. Local citizens provided support and social comforts in the war effort with entertainment and service clubs (USO). The Miami Beach Servicemen’s Pier was famous for recreation and celebrity appearances. After the war, many service men returned to live in Miami. In the 1970’s, Miami and Miami Beach began a revitalization of its 1920’s architectural buildings, especially the hotels along Ocean Drive. Known as Art Deco, the former quietly neighborhood is hopping with energy, businesses, restaurants and attractions.
