In 1912, a vein rich in minerals was discovered running through the dunes. These minerals; rutile, ilmenite and zirconium, were found to be of tremendous value in the processing of steel. The site soon evolved into a frontier mining town with worker's quarters, a post office and general store.

 

A successful mining corporation, The National Lead Company, purchased the rugged outpost as well as several thousand acres of the mineral rich property and, in support of the United States' war effort during World War I, mined the area for the valuable ore. Mining operations ceased shortly after the war ended and the company began to sell off their large real estate holdings in the area.

 

The transformation from former mining town to nationally recognized seaside community began in the early 1920's when local land planners skillfully developed the area to maximize its natural beauty.

 

From this respect for the balance of man and nature, came a quaint seaside village with stately, pastel colored homes featuring tree shaded lawns. Indeed, a community of graceful proportions was created to reflect a graceful era in our country's history.

 

The resort life at Ponte Vedra Beach dates back to 1928 and the celebrated opening of the newest playground for the well-heeled. From the boardrooms of Wall Street to the social registers of America, word spread quickly of the charming seaside retreat on Florida's northeast shore. This quaint, seaside retreat attracted the upper classes from all over the eastern and midwestern states. They came for the sun, sand, and surf. They came for the sports. They came to socialize. The finest families came to meet the finest families. And this splendid heritage continues today.

 

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