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By Compass Rose History Experiences
Nearly four decades before Sarasota became a county, a group of Scottish immigrants landed on our white, sandy shores pursuing the promise of life in a tropical oasis with modern amenities.
But what happens when you move thousands of miles from home, and there’s no home to move into?
By Compass Rose History Experiences
In 1899, Cornelius Van Santvoord (C.V.S.) Wilson, the owner of the Manatee County Advocate, decided to move to the small village of Sarasota to start the area’s first newspaper. The year prior, C.V.S., a widow, had remarried to the young Rose Phillips. 40 years her senior, C.V.S. had a successful career in the newspaper industry and was ready to take on a new challenge.
Through both dedicated efforts of local leaders and the unique charm of the area, this once sleepy fishing town has become an internationally known destination. Here are seven reasons throughout its 100-year history Sarasota County has been a desirable place for visitors to play:
Sarasota County is home to many sites with serious archeological significance
People have been coming to Florida for a long time. And we’re not just talking about all the tourists who have been traveling to the Sunshine State since the early 20th century, or even the Spanish who first came to Florida in the 1500s.
Pamper yourself with services at these unique Sarasota spas for the ultimate relaxation experience
Escape from it all and indulge in a little ‘you time.’ Spas throughout Sarasota offer services to cater to any need, from relaxation to recovery, improved heath to anti-aging. If you’re looking for something traditional or something unique, these spas have got you covered (sometimes in mud).
Get some fresh air with a purpose and try one of our self-guided walking tours to help you discover some of the food, history and culture around Florida's Gulf Coast®.
Steve Christie's NFL career includes time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and two Super Bowl appearances with the Buffalo Bills before an eventual move to Lakewood Ranch, Florida where he now resides with his wife and kids.
After a 15-year NFL career, Steve Christie chose to move his family to Lakewood Ranch where he now works and even coaches football at the local high school. Christie's accolades as an NFL kicker include:
Enjoy fresh air, open spaces and global cuisine throughout the day in Downtown Sarasota
What’s a better way to enjoy the vibe of a beautiful city than taking a leisurely walking tour of the main drag? Doing so while also tasting the flavors of the community! In beautiful Downtown Sarasota, begin and end your day, with fabulous French cuisine highlighted in the middle by other food from around the country.
Enjoy fresh air, open spaces and global cuisine throughout the day on St. Armands and Lido Keys
The best part of a trip to Florida is the seemingly endless seafood available at your beck and call. From grouper sandwiches to briny oysters and piping hot conch fritters, Sarasota’s historic St. Armand’s circle is the ideal location to sample the area’s plentiful seafood.