National Register of Historic Places listings in Nassau County, Florida facts for kids
Welcome to Nassau County, Florida! This special place is home to many buildings and areas that are super important to American history. They are so important, in fact, that they've been added to a list called the National Register of Historic Places. Think of it like a hall of fame for historic buildings, sites, and districts across the United States.
This list will tell you all about the 14 amazing places in Nassau County that have earned a spot on this important register. You can even see where some of them are on a map!
Discover Nassau County's Historic Treasures
What is the National Register?
The National Register of Historic Places (often called the NRHP) is the official list of places in the United States that are worth saving and celebrating. These places could be buildings, structures, objects, sites, or even whole neighborhoods. They are chosen because they tell important stories about our country's past, whether it's about famous people, big events, or special ways of building things. When a place is on this list, it helps protect it and makes people more aware of its history.
Explore Historic Places in Nassau County
Nassau County has a rich history, and these 14 places are key parts of its story. Let's take a closer look at each one!
Amelia Island Lighthouse
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The Amelia Island Lighthouse is a beautiful and historic lighthouse located at 215½ Lighthouse Circle in Fernandina Beach. It was added to the National Register on February 13, 2003. This lighthouse is part of a larger group of Florida's historic lighthouses recognized for their importance in guiding ships safely along the coast.
American Beach Historic District
The American Beach Historic District is a special area in American Beach, roughly bordered by Gregg, Lewis, Leonard, Main, and James Streets, and Ocean Boulevard. It was listed on January 28, 2002. This district is important because it was a historic African American beach community, providing a place for recreation and relaxation during a time of segregation.
Bailey House
You can find the Bailey House at 28 South 7th Street in Fernandina Beach. This lovely home was built around 1895 and was added to the National Register on June 4, 1973. It's a great example of the architecture from that time period.
Ervin's Rest
Ervin's Rest is located at 5448 Gregg Street in American Beach. It became a historic listing on April 23, 1998. This property is also a key part of the larger American Beach Historic District, helping to tell the story of that community.
Fairbanks House
The Fairbanks House, found at 227 South 7th Street in Fernandina Beach, was built in 1885. It was recognized as a historic place on June 4, 1973. This impressive house showcases the architectural styles popular in the late 1800s.
Fernandina Beach Historic District
The Fernandina Beach Historic District covers a large area of Fernandina Beach, including streets like North 9th, Broome, Ash, and South 5th. It was first listed on July 20, 1973, and later expanded on April 20, 1987. This district is filled with many old buildings that show the town's rich past as a bustling port and resort.
Fort Clinch
Fort Clinch is a fascinating historic fort located about 3 miles north of Fernandina Beach on State Road A1A, within Fort Clinch State Park. It was added to the National Register on February 23, 1972. This fort was built in the 1800s and played a role in both the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. Today, you can explore its walls and learn about military life long ago.
Hippard House
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The Hippard House is at 5406 Ervin Street in American Beach. It was listed on October 12, 2001. Like Ervin's Rest, this house is an important part of the American Beach Historic District, reflecting the community's heritage.
Merrick-Simmons House
Located at 102 South 10th Street in Fernandina Beach, the Merrick-Simmons House was added to the National Register on January 13, 1983. This house is another example of the beautiful historic homes that make Fernandina Beach so special.
Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church
The Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church stands on State Road 107 in Nassauville. This church was recognized as a historic place on August 28, 1998. It has served as an important community and spiritual center for many years.
Nassau County Jail (Amelia Island Museum of History)
The old Nassau County Jail, found at 233 South 3rd Street in Fernandina Beach, was listed on November 18, 2009. Today, this historic building has a new purpose: it houses the Amelia Island Museum of History, where you can learn even more about the area's past.
Original Town of Fernandina Historic Site
The Original Town of Fernandina Historic Site is a significant area roughly bounded by Towngate Street, the city cemetery, and Nassau, Marine, and Ladies Streets. It was added to the National Register on January 29, 1990. This site marks where the very first town of Fernandina was located, showing its earliest beginnings.
John Denham Palmer House
The John Denham Palmer House is located at 1305 Atlantic Avenue in Fernandina Beach. It became a historic listing on July 3, 1986. This house contributes to the rich collection of historic architecture in Fernandina Beach.
Tabby House
The Tabby House, at 27 South 7th Street in Fernandina Beach, was built in 1885 and listed on June 4, 1973. "Tabby" is a special type of concrete made from oyster shells, lime, sand, and water. This house is a great example of this unique building method used in coastal areas long ago.
