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 Palm Beach - Florida - History

For years Palm Beach has been known as the social Mecca of the nation. Now, however, it is gaining prominence as an important arts center that has garnered widespread support from culturally minded Palm Beachers.

In February, 1878, when the Spanish brigantine Providencia, bound from Trinidad to Cadiz with a cargo of coconuts, washed ashore on an unknown island. The strewn coconuts propagated and caused a wild growth of palm trees-hence the name "Palm Beach."

But it was Henry Morrison Flagler who is credited with launching the legend. Flagler's dream was to build a grand hotel for the passengers of his Florida East Coast Railroad, and he selected Palm Beach. In 1894, his Royal Poinciana Hotel became the largest resort hotel in the world and reputedly the largest wooden structure ever built. Flagler's own marble mansion, "Whitehall" (1901), is now a museum bearing his name; it is open to the public for a fascinating look at turn-of-the-century life in the tropics.

The legend of Palm Beach lives not only in its historical landmarks, but also in the architectural wonders of its contemporary mansions. From traditional Mediterranean-style homes designed by Addison Mizner to sprawling oceanfront compounds, Palm Beach real estate is among the most prized in the world.

For more than a century, the island has been the favorite "winter playground" of high-society socialites and celebrities. This legendary tropical paradise continues to lure the international jet set with its palm-fringed beaches, opulent resorts and lifestyle.

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