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The word Welaka meant
'River of Lakes' to Native Americans of northeastern Florida and was their name for the river European settlers called the
St. Johns. By the mid 1800s large orange groves and cotton plantations lined the
river banks and dotted the surrounding area. At the outbreak of the Civil War, the
population in he area numbered more than 100. At the end of the war fewer than 20 remained. However, by the mid 1880s the area had become
a resort town attracting visitors seeking medicinal cures from the many surrounding springs. With
this growth, the town of Welaka was incorporated and the name affirmed in 1887. As well as citrus groves,
many of the early settlers had huge vineyards from which wine was made and sold. The "Big Freeze' in 1895 killing
grape vines and entire citrus groves. Entire families moved away, leaving their homes and everything in them. Fortunately, after
the devastating freeze of 1895, Welaka had one dependable asset to fall back on-the fishing industry. From this industry the
Welaka Seafood Company, the O.H. Morris Fish and Crab Company, and the St. Johns River crab Company were born from the period
1879-1974.
From a tradition of hospitality, we invite
you to enjoy Welaka Lodge & Resort. Catering to the casual and avid fisherman and their families, outdoor enthusiasts,
or just those looking for a quiet respite in a beautiful setting, Welaka Lodge and Resort features luxury cottage accomodations
and RV Sites in an Old Florida setting.
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