Who knew that Sanford was famous for it’s Celery crop long before it had the cool local food scene we’ve all been discovering of late – local writer Chad Crawford has the scoop….and a fistful of the long green stuff we all love to dip in the blue cheese dressing!
“Being born and raised in Sanford, Florida, I knew everything there was to know about celery. It sounds ridiculous, but hear me out: Sanford was known as “The Celery City” and the “Celery Capital of the World.” Celery crops were as far as the eye could see for decades, my dad went to Seminole High (also known as the Celery Feds), and I even grew up on Celery Avenue (you can’t make this stuff up!).
Like many towns all around this great state, Sanford’s economy thrived from agriculture and generations of hard working farmers. That’s why I encourage you to look into the backstory of the town you grew up in – or the city you’re living in today. I bet you’ll be amazed at the stories you’ll find.
If you’re interested in checking out the rich history of my hometown, here are some great resources:
Sanford Museum
520 E. First Street
Sanford, FL 32772
There’s no better place than here to check out everything there is to know about Sanford’s origins and founder Henry Shelton Sanford. Memorabilia include photographs, family histories, and sports collections.
www.sanfordfl.gov/index.aspx?page=456
Celery Soup – Florida’s Folk Life Play
230 E. First Street
Sanford, FL 32771
Celery Soup collects stories as part of their ongoing oral history project. Come by the Historic Sanford Welcome Center on the third Saturday of each month during Art Walk (6:00-9:00 pm) and pass down family stories or memories from growing up around here!
Celery City Craft
114 S. Palmetto Avenue
Sanford, FL 32771
While you’re in Sanford, check out a local favorite hangout. This Sanford Neighborhood Taproom and Bistro has 51 craft beers (18 of which are Florida brews!) on tap, great food, and numerous special events and street fairs throughout the year.
It just takes a little digging to discover the cool history of your hometown. Happy discovering!”
DO florida,
Chad Crawford