Greetings!
Thank you for joining me for my August newsletter. As the sun blazes overhead we're delving into captivating stories that transport us to a different time. Join us as we uncover the secrets of Punta Gorda's one-room jail and uncover the rich history of schools in Charlotte County.
Your feedback is valuable to me, so please don't hesitate to share your thoughts by replying.
Additionally, feel free to visit my website waltbethel.com where you can browse my listings, search for properties, and explore my archived newsletters and stories on the history of Florida.
Walt
|
|
 |
From the beginning, settlers in Southwest Florida recognized a need for education. Young men and women motivated to educate the community's children took on the role of teaching children in town halls and churches. As the community grew, so did our history.
1888
Classes outgrow the community hall and the first building is designated as a school at the corner of Marion & Harvey Streets in Punta Gorda.
1893
The first school for African Americans is formed. After an organized search, Benjamin Joshua Baker agrees to be its principal and relocates from New Orleans. Mr. Baker retired in 1940 after 49 years of teaching and died in 1942 while a new school for the African American Community (Baker Center) was constructed. The school remained segregated until 1964 when Charlotte County Schools were integrated.
1921
Charlotte County's modern era begins when DeSoto County is divided into 5 parts. The first bridge across Charlotte Harbor is constructed and schools begin bussing students from rural communities to the Junior High in Port Charlotte and combined schools in Punta Gorda. Six busses operated on a budget of $30.00 per semester, per student.
1926
Bussing increased Punta Gorda enrollment to 1,000 and forced construction of Charlotte High School. Charlotte County teacher salaries were reported as the highest in the State of Florida at $615.00 for teachers in a two room school to $933.00 in schools with 10 or more rooms. As the Great Depression made its way into Charlotte County, the school year was reduced to 7 months and teachers often received promissory notes for items like food and clothing from local merchants.
1937
Sallie Jones, one of the original 21 teachers assigned to Charlotte High School, is appointed the first female superintendent of schools in the State of Florida. Ms. Jones served 16 years as superintendent. She created the first school lunchrooms and set the standard that all teachers had to be professionally certified. Ms. Jones retired in 1953 after 31 years as an educator.
|
Known now as the Old Schoolhouse Apartments, the first dedicated all grades school in Punta was built on this site in 1896. Originally a one story structure, a second story was added in 1902. The first year of high school was in 1903, the first graduating class, 1905. It served as both an elementary and high school until 1911 when a new school was built on Taylor as the school age population grew. In 1927 it became the town’s s first hospital. During the 1920s, the Chadwick brothers remodeled it for an inn. Later in the 1930s it became an apartment house |
Citrus Spotlight
Origin of Oranges Can Be Determined
|
A study by Citrus Australia utilized isotopes and trace elements to determine the origin of oranges, specifically whether they came from Australia or another country. By analyzing these factors, researchers could even differentiate between oranges from different Australian growing regions. This pioneering study was part of the Agriculture Victoria Food to Market program.
As global demand for high-quality food products, including Australian ones, grows, ensuring product traceability and origin verification becomes crucial to prevent food fraud, protect brands, and maintain consumer satisfaction.
Isotopes and trace elements present in agricultural products like fruit are influenced by factors such as local geology, climate, environment, and agricultural practices. These unique atomic signatures provide a kind of laboratory-based identification that is specific to a particular product and region.
Collaborating with GNS Science from New Zealand, the National Isotope and Trace Element (NITE) project examined the isotopes and trace elements in Australian navel oranges to verify their origin.
The intrinsic atomic composition within oranges remains unchanged even if labels are removed, making it a tamper-proof way to determine origin. This was emphasized by Karyne Rogers, a senior environmental scientist at GNS Science.
The study involved Australian and competitor country fruit from the 2021 and 2022 harvest seasons. By combining trace elements and isotopes, the study achieved a 97.3% accuracy rate in distinguishing Australian oranges from those of other countries. It could also differentiate oranges from different Australian regions with a 92.3% accuracy rate.
The findings are valuable for providing evidence of fruit origin, especially in crisis situations or when other traceability methods are compromised. Citrus Australia's CEO, Nathan Hancock, highlighted the potential to expand the NITE dataset by including more data from around the country and various orange varieties. This could involve collaborations with growers and global partners to enhance citrus traceability worldwide.
|
|
|
|
Bulls and Bands
Your favorite Labor Day Weekend event is back and better than ever! Arcadia Rodeo presents: The Louis & Gloria Flanzer Philanthropic Trust 4th Annual Bulls and Bands featuring Country Music icons Craig Morgan & Mark Chesnutt with special guest Craig Campbell sponsored in part by Discover DeSoto.
It's all happening Saturday, September 2nd, at the Mosaic Arena — an unforgettable event as they bring together live freestyle bullfighting, our crowd's favorite man vs. beast competition, with multiple country music performances. This is a one-of-a-kind show that you won't want to miss!
Grab your tickets now here or by calling 800-749-7633. |
"The Calaboose"
To be the best of knowledge, it was Isaac Trabue who had the first two wooden jails built for the city. of Punta Gorda. These were both burnt town by town hooligans. Isaac then turned to an iron alternative. Referred to as the calaboose, the metal jail made in Detroit, was said to have been set up somewhere downtown. Although in 1903 it was in back of Marshall Bowman’s home on Taylor. It was used mostly to hold drunks overnight, letting them sober up while on display for residents. Sometime in the 1940s, it was moved to a ranch on Washington Loop where it was located in the late 1990s and later moved to the history park where you can see it today.
|
|
|
|
RECENTLY LISTED!
275 Acres
28100 45th Ave E Myakka City, FL 34251
|
Welcome to this stunning 275-acres boasting old Florida landscape and an income-producing orange grove. As you explore the grounds, you'll come across a large barn that houses a cozy bunkhouse, providing a comfortable retreat for guests or farm workers. Adjacent to this structure lies another large pole barn, perfect for storing equipment or hosting outdoor gatherings. One of the highlights of this Valencia grove is its state-of-the-art irrigation system. The farm is equipped with fully automated irrigation systems with deep water wells, ensuring that the orange grove receives optimal hydration for healthy fruit production. The irrigation system features both John Deere and Cat diesel engines. Beyond the orange grove, the land offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Incredible oak trees create a perfect landscape for recreational activities such as hunting or riding your ATVs. Whether you enjoy tracking game or simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature, this property provides ample opportunities to indulge in your outdoor passions while earning an income. Conveniently located within 20 minutes to I-75, this property offers easy access to nearby amenities, shopping centers, and entertainment options. It strikes the perfect balance between seclusion and convenience, allowing you to enjoy the peace and privacy of a rural retreat while still being within reach of urban amenities. Tampa / St Petersburg and Sarasota / Bradenton are an easy drive away. Don't miss your chance to own this exquisite piece of land in Manatee County.
Total Acres: 275.66
List Price: $4,975,000
|
|
HUGE Price Improvement!
453 Acre Farm
13505 Sugarbowl Rd. Myakka City, FL 34251
|
453 acre farm currently in Watercress production. This extremely well kept property could also be utilized for limitless produce production in addition to the watercress. This property features a combined 25,000 sqft+ of packing facilities, walk-in cooler, quality control area, warehouse, barns, and office space. There are 4 pump house stations with a central 12” well. This farm is located less than 2 miles to Hwy 70 in Manatee County with easy access to I-75. Call today to hear more about this lucrative opportunity.
Total Acres: 453
NEW Price: $2,650,000
|
|
223+ Acres
9 J Whitaker Rd. Venus, FL 33960
|
223.25 Acres in Venus, Florida. This property could continue as a producing grove or be converted to farm land. A mobile home, two barns and one permitted 12” well are already in place. An additional 900+ contiguous grove acres are also available.
Total Acres: 223.25
List Price: $1,900,000
|
|
52 Acres
SW Hull Ave. Arcadia, FL 34269
|
52+ acres with close proximity to Hwy 17 in Ft. Ogden, zoned A-5. This property features one permitted 8” well with a quarter mile of road frontage plus an abundance of wooded area. A perfect spot to build your new estate home and still have plenty of land to graze your horses or cattle. The future land use zoning of Neighborhood Mixed Use also provides potential for residential development. Up to 3.5-5 units per acre. LOTS OF OPTIONS!! Call today for a showing!
Total Acres: 52
List Price: $777,000
|
|
293 Acres
SE Co Rd 763 Arcadia, FL 34266
|
Introducing an extraordinary opportunity in DeSoto County, Florida—a sprawling 293-acre parcel of land that is perfectly suited for transitional agricultural use and holds immense potential for future development. Located just 5 minutes South of Arcadia this land benefits from a strategic location on the corner of Co Rd 760A and 763 seamlessly blending serene countryside living with convenient access to amenities and services. Additionally, its proximity to Highway 31 ensures easy commutes to Punta Gorda, Ft. Myers and Babcock Ranch. One of the standout features of this property is its extensive road frontage, boasting over 7,000 feet of access along its boundaries. This substantial frontage enhances accessibility and facilitates potential development and subdivision, making it an enticing prospect for investors, developers, or individuals looking to create their own unique estate properties. The property also features two deep agricultural wells if you are looking to start or expand your agricultural venture. This land is in close proximity to the DeSoto County water system. The potential connectivity to the county's water system ensures access to a well-established infrastructure, further enhancing the potential for development. With careful planning, appropriate zoning, and the possibility of platting, this property can be transformed into individual lots within the property further enhancing its appeal. Whether you envision a private estate, a farming enterprise, or a thoughtfully designed subdivision catering to the increasing demand for housing in the area, this transitional piece of land offers a blank canvas for your vision to become a reality.
Total Acres: 292.77
List Price: $2,930,000
|
|
PENDING!
20+ Acres with 3/2 Home
1232 NW Myrtle Ave. Arcadia, FL 34266
|
Country living at its finest! On 20+ acres come experience the peace and tranquility this beautifully renovated, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home has to offer. Set amongst majestic oaks at then end of a quiet street, you will be welcomed by open grazing land for your beloved farm animals. Home is well-maintained with over 1,000 sqft, open living area and updated kitchen. High quality vinyl floors throughout whole home. Master Suite offers tiled shower. The screened back porch is ideal for family gatherings and those late evenings sitting outside admiring the sunset over your Florida property. Property is two 10 acre parcels both zoned RM. Less than 5 miles to downtown Arcadia, with easy access to Charlotte and Sarasota County. Set up your showing of this beautiful home and property today!
Total Sq Ft: 1,050
MLS: C7466560
List Price: $649,999
|
|
11+ Acre Parcels
Rice St. Arcadia, FL 34266
|
11+ acres offering a quiet and private setting. This is the ideal building site for your dream home with a 12" well plenty of space for a barn, pond, and animals. Located right off Hog Bay Extension (County Road 763) with quick access to downtown Arcadia. Just 30-40 minutes to Punta Gorda,Port Charlotte and Fort Myers. 3 Parcels available.
List Price: $200,000/each parcel
|
|
Parcels Ranging 6-20 Acres Charlotte County
Neal Rd. Punta Gorda, FL 33982
|
Mutiple 6-20 Acres of desirable land is waiting for YOU! Offering a quiet and private setting, yet within minutes to Hwy 31 with convenient access into Arcadia, Punta Gorda or Ft. Myers. Ideal building site for your dream home with plenty of space for a barn or animals. Zoning is AG which allows for agriculture and residential and NO deed restrictions.
Listing Price: $149,000-$298,000
|
|
Walt Bethel is a fifth generation Floridian, born and raised in Arcadia, with a vast knowledge of all areas of Florida Real Estate and an ardent appreciation for Florida history.
The purchase and development of his first orange grove when he was just sixteen years old fueled Walt's passion for real estate.
Since then, he has bought, owned, and sold a wide variety of properties throughout a successful business career. His investments have included acreage, agricultural properties, residential homes, condos, and commercial properties.
Walt's marketing and sales experience was cultivated over time at his family's business, Bethel Farms, where he marketed, managed, and sold products to "Big Box" retailers across the Southeastern and Midwestern United States.
From an early age, Walt's dad instilled in him the values to work hard and always have a goal, to look for a better way of doing things, and to constantly improve on them.
The daily implementation of these principles, coupled with his enjoyment of networking with new people and his experience in business, sales, and marketing, have contributed to Walt's success as a Realtor.
Walt has served on various boards and committees throughout the years. He has coached and actively supports local youth athletic programs and leagues.
He and his wife Jill, also a fourth generation Floridian, reside in Punta Gorda. They have two children, Peyton and Truman.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
