Highland Park, FL
Highland Park is a small, unincorporated community in Polk County. It may not be as well-known as its larger neighbors, but it holds a special place in the hearts of those who call it home and offers a glimpse into a quieter, more traditional way of Florida living.
Location and Geography of Highland Park, Florida
Highland Park is situated in the eastern part of Polk County, approximately 60 miles east of Tampa and 50 miles southwest of Orlando. Its location places it within the Lake Wales Ridge, a unique geological feature that runs through central Florida. This ridge is known for its higher elevation compared to the surrounding areas, which has historically made it an ideal location for citrus cultivation and residential development.
The community is surrounded by numerous lakes, including Crooked Lake to the east and Lake Easy to the west. These bodies of water not only provide scenic beauty but also play a crucial role in the local ecosystem and recreational activities. Read next article.
Highland Park, FL: Historical Background
The history of Highland Park dates back to the early 20th century when the area began to attract wealthy northerners looking for winter retreats. The community was officially established in 1919 by Irving Babson, a cousin of the famous statistician Roger Babson who founded nearby Babson Park.
Highland Park was designed as an exclusive enclave, featuring a golf course and elegant homes overlooking the picturesque Crooked Lake. The Highland Park Club, established in the 1920s, became the social center of the community, hosting prominent visitors and residents alike.
One of the most notable aspects of Highland Park’s history is its connection to the Bok family. Edward W. Bok, a Dutch-American editor and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, was instrumental in the development of the area. His creation of the nearby Bok Tower Gardens, which opened in 1929, significantly increased the profile of Highland Park and the surrounding region.
Architecture and Community Design
Highland Park is renowned for its distinctive architecture, which reflects the popular styles of the early 20th century. Many homes in the area showcase Mediterranean Revival and Colonial Revival designs, characterized by stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and elegant detailing.
The community’s layout was carefully planned to take advantage of the natural topography. Winding roads follow the contours of the land, offering residents and visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and citrus groves. This thoughtful design has helped Highland Park maintain its charm and character over the decades.
Natural Environment and Recreation around Highland Park, FL
One of Highland Park’s greatest assets is its natural beauty and biodiversity. The Lake Wales Ridge ecosystem, of which Highland Park is a part, is home to many rare and endangered plant and animal species found nowhere else in the world. This unique environment has attracted the attention of conservationists and nature enthusiasts alike.
The nearby lakes provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Crooked Lake, one of the largest lakes in Polk County, is renowned for its excellent fishing, particularly for largemouth bass. Boating, kayaking, and birdwatching are also popular activities on the lake.
Golf has been an integral part of Highland Park’s identity since its inception. The Highland Park Golf Club, established in the 1920s, offers a challenging course set against the backdrop of central Florida’s rolling hills. The club is open to the public and attracts players from across the region.
Highland Park Community Life
Despite its small size, Highland Park boasts a strong sense of community. Many residents are descendants of the original families who settled the area, contributing to a deep-rooted sense of place and history. This connection to the past is evident in the preservation of historic structures and the continuation of long-standing community traditions.
The Highland Park Club continues to serve as a focal point for community life. While no longer as exclusive as in its heyday, the club still hosts various events throughout the year, including an annual Fourth of July celebration that draws residents and visitors alike.
Education in Highland Park is primarily served by the Polk County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Lake Wales. The small-town atmosphere extends to the educational experience, with many parents and community members actively involved in supporting local schools through volunteer work and participation in school events.
Cultural Attractions
While Highland Park itself is primarily residential, its proximity to cultural attractions enhances the quality of life for residents and draws visitors to the area. The most notable of these is Bok Tower Gardens, located just a few miles away in Lake Wales. This National Historic Landmark features a 205-foot singing tower carillon, beautiful gardens, and a visitor center that offers insights into the area’s history and ecology.
The Lake Wales Museum, housed in a restored 1928 Atlantic Coast Line Railroad depot, provides a window into the region’s past. Its exhibits showcase the development of Highland Park and the surrounding communities, from their Native American origins through the citrus boom and beyond.
Economic Landscape
Highland Park’s economy is closely tied to that of the surrounding area, particularly Lake Wales. While the community itself is primarily residential, many residents work in nearby towns or commute to larger cities like Orlando or Tampa.
The citrus industry, once the backbone of the local economy, still plays a significant role, although it has faced challenges in recent years due to diseases and changing market conditions. Many local growers have diversified their crops, introducing blueberries, peaches, and other fruits that thrive in the unique soil and climate conditions of the Lake Wales Ridge.
Tourism, driven by attractions like Bok Tower Gardens and the area’s natural beauty, contributes to the local economy. Several bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals in Highland Park cater to visitors looking for a peaceful retreat in central Florida.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Like many small communities, Highland Park faces challenges as it looks to the future. Balancing preservation of its historic character with necessary development and infrastructure improvements is an ongoing concern. The community must also address issues related to an aging population while seeking ways to attract younger residents and families.
Environmental conservation is another key challenge. The unique ecosystem of the Lake Wales Ridge is under pressure from development and climate change. Efforts are underway to protect sensitive habitats and educate residents and visitors about the importance of preserving this unique natural heritage.
Despite these challenges, the future of Highland Park looks promising. The community’s strong sense of identity, combined with its natural beauty and proximity to larger urban centers, positions it well for sustainable growth. There are ongoing efforts to promote Highland Park as a destination for eco-tourism and cultural tourism, leveraging its unique history and environment.
Community Initiatives and Volunteerism in Highland Park, FL
The spirit of volunteerism is strong in Highland Park, with many residents actively involved in community initiatives. Local environmental groups organize regular clean-up events for the lakes and natural areas, helping to maintain the beauty and health of these ecosystems.
The Highland Park Garden Club, established in the early days of the community, continues to play an active role in beautification efforts and environmental education. The club maintains several public gardens in the area and hosts workshops on native plant gardening and conservation.
Preservation efforts are also a key focus for many residents. The Highland Park Historic Society works to document and preserve the community’s rich history, collecting oral histories from long-time residents and maintaining an archive of historical photographs and documents.
Cultural Events and Traditions
Throughout the year, Highland Park and the surrounding area host various events that celebrate the region’s culture and history. The annual Lake Wales Arts Festival, held in nearby Lake Wales, showcases local artists and craftspeople, drawing visitors from across central Florida.
The Bok Tower Gardens’ seasonal events, including the Holiday Home Tour and the Sunset & Symphony concert, have become beloved traditions for residents. These events not only provide entertainment but also strengthen the sense of community and connection to the area’s cultural heritage.
Infrastructure and Development
While Highland Park remains primarily residential, there have been efforts to improve infrastructure and amenities in recent years. The community has seen upgrades to its road network, improving connectivity with nearby towns and enhancing safety for residents and visitors.
Water management is a crucial issue in Highland Park, given its location on the Lake Wales Ridge. Local authorities work closely with the Southwest Florida Water Management District to ensure sustainable use of water resources and protect the quality of local lakes and aquifers.
Internet connectivity, once a challenge in this rural area, has improved in recent years, with efforts underway to bring high-speed broadband to more households. This development is crucial for attracting remote workers and supporting local businesses in the digital age.
Highland Park, FL: Education and Lifelong Learning
While Highland Park doesn’t have its own schools, the community strongly supports education and lifelong learning. Many residents are involved with Bok Tower Gardens’ educational programs, which offer workshops and classes on topics ranging from horticulture to local history.
The nearby Lake Wales Public Library serves as an important resource for Highland Park residents, offering not only books and digital resources but also hosting various educational programs and community events throughout the year.
Conclusion
Highland Park, Florida, may be small in size, but it is rich in history, natural beauty, and community spirit. This unassuming community embodies the essence of old Florida, where elegant homes and carefully planned landscapes blend seamlessly with the natural environment of the Lake Wales Ridge.
The vision of its founders, who saw the potential in this picturesque setting nearly a century ago, continues to shape the town’s identity. The preservation of historic homes, the emphasis on environmental conservation, and the strong sense of community all reflect the original dream of creating an exclusive yet harmonious retreat in the heart of Florida.
For visitors, Highland Park offers a glimpse into a side of Florida often overlooked by tourists. Its rolling hills, pristine lakes, and unique flora and fauna provide a stark contrast to the state’s famous beaches and theme parks. For history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking an authentic Florida experience, Highland Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
As Highland Park moves forward, it does so with a clear vision of preserving its past while adapting to the future. The balance between historic preservation, environmental conservation, and modest development ensures that this small community will continue to thrive, offering a unique way of life that honors Florida’s natural and cultural heritage.
In Highland Park, one finds more than just a picturesque community – it’s a living testament to the enduring appeal of thoughtful planning, the importance of community, and the delicate balance between human habitation and the natural world. As it faces the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, the town remains a special place, deeply rooted in its history yet looking confidently toward a sustainable and vibrant future.
Learn more about Highland Park, FL here.
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