Wild Citrus – More Than Manatees

Wild Citrus – More Than Manatees   By: Ken Marotte, Citrus County Historical Society   Citrus County has teemed with a surprising assortment of wildlife over the years.  Some have disappeared due to growth encroaching into their habitat.  Others have survived and...

Monitoring the Pulse of Citrus County

Monitoring the Pulse of Citrus County   By: Ken Marotte, Citrus County Historical Society   While national headlines may grab our attention, local events are an important part of everyday life.  Community newspapers, such as the Citrus County Chronicle, kept...

A Look at the Floral City Water Association

A Look at the Floral City Water Association   By: Ken Marotte, Citrus County Historical Society   There is an old saying that “Water is Life”.   The early pioneers of Citrus County needed ample supplies of clear freshwater for their families, farms and ranches. ...

Old-Time Sugar Cane Grinding

Old-Time Sugar Cane Grinding   By: Ken Marotte, Citrus County Historical Society   Every Fall the descendants of our pioneer families gather to continue the age-old ritual of sugar cane grinding.   It’s an opportunity to renew family connections and welcome...

Citrus County’s Vital Ice Connection

Citrus County’s Vital Ice Connection   By: Ken Marotte, Citrus County Historical Society   Today we simply go to our freezer when we need a glass of ice.  The refrigerator keeps food cold and stores all of those leftovers after our Thanksgiving dinner.  Obtaining...

Letters to the Homefront

Letters to the Homefront   By: Ken Marotte, Citrus County Historical Society   Soldiers and sailors relied on mail to retain their ties to the loved ones they left behind.  While the uniforms, weapons and adversaries may have changed over the years, the...