Hart Lake Hills is a gated community in Winter Haven, Florida. It was built between 1998 and 2007 and has around 85 homes. The community is located on the western shore of Lake Hart, a natural freshwater lake with a surface area of 68 acres 2. Lake Hart is bordered on the west by residences in Hart Lake Hills, on the south and east by residences in the Lake Ashton gated community, and to the northeast by a variety of residential areas 2. While there is limited historical information available specifically about Hart Lake Hills, likely due to its relatively recent development, we can piece together a picture of its past by exploring the history of the surrounding area and notable events that may have influenced its development.
Early History of the Region
Polk County, where Hart Lake Hills is located, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Pioneers began moving south into Florida in 1842, incentivized by the Armed Occupation Act. Cattlemen and settlers were drawn to the area’s open grazing land, and small farms, orange groves, schools, and churches began to appear 3. Polk County was officially established in 1861, named after former President James K. Polk 3.
The arrival of the South Florida Railroad in 1884, spearheaded by Henry B. Plant, brought significant growth to the region. Towns like Lakeland, Auburndale, and Winter Haven flourished as a result of the railroad’s expansion 3. Winter Haven, in particular, became known for its citrus industry and as a winter resort destination 4.
Interestingly, many of the lakes in Polk County, including Lake Hart, were named after individuals and groups who played a significant role in the area’s development. These include U.S. Army officers, early land promoters, railroad builders, and early citrus growers 5. This practice reflects the historical influences that shaped the region’s landscape and identity.
This growth and development in Polk County set the stage for the emergence of Winter Haven as a prominent city and the eventual establishment of communities like Hart Lake Hills.
Development of Winter Haven
Winter Haven’s history is closely tied to the development of Hart Lake Hills. The city was originally called Harris Corners, after F.A.K. Harris, who built the first building in the downtown area 4. In 1911, the name was changed to Winter Haven, reflecting its appeal as a winter resort.
The city’s growth was fueled by the citrus industry, and by the turn of the century, it had a population of 400 and boasted citrus groves, a school, a post office, and various businesses 4. Winter Haven also became known for its chain of lakes, which provided recreational opportunities and contributed to its appeal as a residential area.
An interesting aspect of Winter Haven’s history is the development of the “Pughsville” neighborhood. Pughsville was one of the city’s earliest neighborhoods, settled by African Americans who cleared land in the southwest section of the city 7. It was named after Reverend Charles Pugh, an early black pioneer and founder of Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church. Pughsville thrived from the 1900s until the 1950s and had its own school, social halls, stores, and restaurants. The community produced Winter Haven’s first African American commissioner and mayor, Lemuel Geathers 7.
It’s important to note that Winter Haven’s development as a winter resort destination likely played a role in the later establishment of gated communities like Hart Lake Hills 4. The city’s history of attracting residents seeking a comfortable and leisurely lifestyle may have contributed to the demand for exclusive residential areas like Hart Lake Hills.
The establishment of Winter Haven as a thriving city with a diverse history paved the way for the development of residential communities in the surrounding areas, including Hart Lake Hills.
Geography and Demographics
Hart Lake Hills is situated in the southern part of Winter Haven, specifically on the western shore of Lake Hart. As mentioned earlier, Lake Hart has a surface area of 68 acres and is not part of the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes. The community itself consists of around 85 homes, with a mix of lakefront and non-lakefront properties.
While specific demographic information about Hart Lake Hills residents is not available in the provided materials, it’s worth noting that the community is described as a desirable place to buy a lakefront home at a more reasonable price than many central Florida areas. This suggests that the community may attract residents seeking a balance of affordability and lakefront living.
The location and characteristics of Hart Lake Hills contribute to its appeal as a residential community within the larger Winter Haven area.
Historical Landmarks and Points of Interest in Polk County
Polk County is home to several historical landmarks and points of interest, some of which are in proximity to Hart Lake Hills. These include:
- Bok Tower Gardens: Located in Lake Wales, this National Historic Landmark features a 205-foot Singing Tower and 250 acres of gardens 3. Visitors can explore the gardens, enjoy the carillon concerts, and learn about the history of the site.
- The Polk County History Center: Housed in the former Polk County Courthouse in Bartow, this museum showcases the history and culture of the county 8. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Polk County from its early settlement to the present day.
- Spook Hill: This “gravity hill” optical illusion in Lake Wales creates the impression that cars roll uphill 9. It’s a popular roadside attraction that has intrigued visitors for decades.
- Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture at Florida Southern College: Lakeland is home to the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world 10. Visitors can tour the campus and admire the unique buildings designed by the renowned architect.
- Cypress Gardens: This historic botanical garden and theme park in Winter Haven is now part of Legoland Florida Resort 10. It features beautiful gardens, water ski shows, and amusement park rides.
- Lake Hart: Within Hart Lake Hills, Lake Hart itself is a significant point of interest. Its 68-acre surface area provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.
While these landmarks are not located within Hart Lake Hills, they provide insights into the historical and cultural richness of the surrounding area and offer residents opportunities for recreation and exploration.
The presence of these landmarks and points of interest adds to the appeal of living in Hart Lake Hills and provides residents with a connection to the broader history and culture of Polk County.
Notable Figures Associated with Polk County
Although no notable figures are specifically associated with Hart Lake Hills, several individuals have made significant contributions to the history of Polk County. These include:
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Jacob Summerlin | A prominent cattleman and landowner who played a key role in the development of Bartow and other areas in Polk County 3. |
| Henry B. Plant | A railroad magnate who brought the South Florida Railroad to Polk County, contributing to its economic growth 3. |
| Gene Leedy | An architect who designed many buildings in Winter Haven, including some that are part of the Downtown Winter Haven Historic District 7. |
These individuals, along with many others, have shaped the history and development of Polk County.
The contributions of these notable figures have had a lasting impact on Polk County and have likely influenced the development of communities like Hart Lake Hills.
Historical Records and Images
Historical maps and photos of the broader Winter Haven area are available from various sources, such as the Polk County Historical and Genealogical Library and online archives. These resources can provide a glimpse into the past and offer insights into the development of the region over time.
Did you know?
Winter Haven was a Major League Baseball Spring Training site for many years, first at Denison Field and later at Chain of Lakes Park. Great baseball players who played spring training baseball in Winter Haven included Jimmie Foxx, Lou Gehrig, Willie Mays, Roberto Clemente, Johnny Bench, and Hank Aaron.
Despite the limited availability of specific historical records for Hart Lake Hills, the broader historical context of Winter Haven and Polk County provides valuable information about the community’s past.
Conclusion
While specific historical information about Hart Lake Hills is limited, exploring the history of the surrounding area, including Winter Haven and Polk County, provides valuable context. The development of the region, influenced by factors such as the citrus industry, the railroad, and notable figures, likely played a role in the establishment of Hart Lake Hills as a residential community. The growth of Winter Haven as a winter resort and the establishment of gated communities in the region likely influenced the development of Hart Lake Hills as an exclusive residential area. The presence of historical landmarks and points of interest in Polk County further enriches the historical tapestry of the area and provides residents with a connection to the broader community.
Works cited
2. Lake Hart (Winter Haven, Florida) – Wikipedia, accessed January 10, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Hart_(Winter_Haven,_Florida)
3. www.polk-county.net, accessed January 10, 2025, https://www.polk-county.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/polk-county-history-and-heritage-trail-guide.pdf
4. Winter Haven History, accessed January 10, 2025, https://www.mywinterhaven.com/
5. polk.wateratlas.usf.edu, accessed January 10, 2025, http://polk.wateratlas.usf.edu/upload/documents/Naming%20of%20Polk%20Lakes.pdf
6. 1998 Kissimmee tornado outbreak – Wikipedia, accessed January 10, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998_Kissimmee_tornado_outbreak
7. Winter Haven, Florida – Wikipedia, accessed January 10, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winter_Haven,_Florida
8. Things To Do | Polk County History Center, accessed January 10, 2025, https://www.polk-county.net/things-to-do/history-center/
9. Unraveling the Mystery of Spook Hill – Evendo, accessed January 10, 2025, https://evendo.com/locations/florida/southeast-florida/landmark/spook-hill
10. National Register of Historic Places listings in Polk County, Florida – Wikipedia, accessed January 10, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Register_of_Historic_Places_listings_in_Polk_County,_Florida