History of Mulberry
Take a step back in time before Mulberry even had a name. Learn about the history of Mulberry, Florida. And how it became the city it is today.
It all started back in the 1840’s. The first settlers arrived in what would become named Mulberry sometime in the 1840’s. The first industry in the area was logging the longleaf yellow pine which dominated the area. Longleaf pines still flourish in Polk County and especially within the Mulberry communities.
Have you ever stepped on a pine cone?
The bark is thick, reddish-brown, and scaly. The leaves are dark green and needle-like. And occur in bundles of three. Not to mention longleaf pines create tons of pine cones. Anyone from this area knows what a pine tree is. And has probably stepped on a pine cone or two. Eventually, the settlement grew and housed log homes, stores and saloons. Mulberry has always been a small town. Even today, there’s less than 4,000 people who reside in this area. But back in the 1840’s, there were a whole lot less! Considering that this tiny town had saloons, this tiny town had some troubles. The nearest sheriff and jail was hours away in Bartow. And the town looked like a scene from the Old West as the mob rule triumphed. All the residents would carry a gun at all times. And Monday morning was a busy time for the coroner. Considering he had to deal with the unfortunate victims of Saturday night’s “troublemakers.”
How Mulberry Got it’s Name
At the time, the area had no official name, but the railroad which came through town would always stop at a mulberry tree to let the passengers off. As well as unload the mail for the residents. The old mulberry tree quickly became “the” meeting place in town. Everyone would meet at the Mulberry tree for conversations, gossiping and passing time. Waiting for the train. Eventually giving the town its name. The Mulberry Tree that helped name the town stood strong until the late 1960’s. And the history of Mulberry continues…
Mulberry Phosphate
Phosphate rock was discovered In 1886. Phosphate is a non-detrital sedimentary rock which contains high amounts of phosphate bearing minerals. It is used to produce many things including fertilizers for agriculture. The phosphate rock was found along the Peace River. The Peace River flows through Mulberry, Bartow, Fort Meade, Wauchula, Zolfo Springs and goes all the way to Port Charlotte. The Peace River is still enjoyed by both residents and visitors daily for fishing, canoeing, sight seeing and more. Mulberry’s leading industry quickly went from forestry to mining. This gave the town the growth it needed to become incorporated in 1901. And by 1910 the towns Masonic lodge was established which is still around today.
Phosphate Capital of the World
Although there were plenty of setbacks. Such as the town fires of 1902, the little community of Mulberry stayed the primary focus of the Bone Valley phosphate mining industry. Eventually tho, the phosphate mines were depleted and mining began moving south. Although the phosphate industry isn’t what it was in the late 1800’s, Mulberry is still home to many companies that support the phosphate mining industry. The City of Mulberry has been known as the Phosphate Capital of the World for quite some time. The Mulberry Phosphate Museum consists of an amazing collection of fossilized remains, area memorabilia and educational exhibits on the Phosphate Industry. The Mulberry Phosphate Museum is a great place to visit to learn about the history of Mulberry and the phosphate industry.
Small Town Charm
There are a few, well known companies who started their businesses in Mulberry, Florida. The W.S. Badcock Corporation got it’s start in 1904. And its headquarters are still located in Mulberry to this day. Badcock’s is a well known furniture store with locations across the State of Florida. They carry top of the line furniture, home decor, appliances and more. Badcock’s is now one of the nation’s largest privately-owned home furniture retailers. Another well known business is the Mine and Mill Supply Company. They got their start in Mulberry in 1909. The Mine and Mill Supply Company is one of the oldest continually operating companies in Polk County. Mulberry is home to many local businesses who are ready to serve you. Whatever it may be that you’re looking for, let us help you find it. Our Mulberry Business Directory will help you find a reliable contractor, homes for sale, places to stay, local restaurants and more. Want to know what’s going on in Mulberry? Check out our events calendar.