The History of Orchid Island

When the 600-acre Town of Orchid property was purchased in 1988, it made national news. With a population of seven, Orchid was the second smallest town in Florida. For twenty years, a simple white riverfront cottage served as the Town Hall and all residents were on the Town Council. As the Town of Orchid’s population grew over the next few years with the development of the Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club, a village atmosphere and deep community pride was carefully protected.

On July 31, 1715, part of an 11-ship Spanish fleet laden with treasure sank just off shore of Vero Beach. Valued in the hundreds of millions, its trove of gold and silver coins have been largely claimed my mother nature. However, from time to time, antique treasures do wash ashore earning the nickname of the "'Treasure Coast”.

In the 1800’s, the Indian River, on the western boundary, served as a major economic “highway”. Trading schooners were floating general stores that visited settlements along the river on a monthly schedule.

In 1903, A.B. Michael, one of the original Town of Orchid settlers, planted the first ten acres of citrus trees while continuing to raise beans and tomatoes as a money crop. Decades later, Orchid Island grapefruit became recognized worldwide for producing the finest quality grapefruit.

In November, 1994, a Canadian-based company headed by W. Galen Weston, Chairman and President of George Weston Limited, purchased the property. Mr. Weston’s company is widely recognized as a leader in food processing, distribution, and resource operation in North America since 1882. Galen and his wife, Hilary, are the founders of the internationally acclaimed development of Windsor, which borders to the north of Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club.

On November 1st, 2007, the members of Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club assumed full control of the Club in a smooth transition, and today, Orchid Island is a private club owned and managed by its members.

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