Citrus County’s celebration of the Fourth of July has come a long way since the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. At that time, Florida was a backwater territory owned by the British, with few settlers who remained loyal to the Crown. They were occupied with daily survival in the harsh Florida environment and dealing with hostile natives, and it is doubtful that the sparse population was aware of the independence movement growing to the North and certainly did not celebrate the event.
Fast forward to 1976, when Citrus County marked the nation’s bicentennial milestone with various activities and events. According to Inverness City Councilman Tom Craig, several interesting clippings from the Citrus County Chronicle highlighted some of the celebrations from July 1976. As the nation prepares for its 250th celebration, locals are reflecting on how the county has commemorated the Fourth of July over the years. The county’s celebrations have evolved from silence to parades and pageantry, reflecting the changing times.
In the early days of American independence, Florida was divided into two entities – East Florida and West Florida. The first military governor of the area, Andrew Jackson, had engaged in extensive military campaigns to subdue the native tribes and open more land for American settlers. Jackson was replaced by civilian Territorial Governor William Pope Duval in 1822, who selected an obscure Seminole village called Tallahassee as the new territorial capitol.
Today, Citrus County and other local communities in Hernando, Pasco, and Citrus Counties celebrate the Fourth of July with various events and activities. Residents can enjoy parades, fireworks, and other festivities that showcase the nation’s birthday.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
