Combee Settlement, FL

County: Polk

History

Combee Settlement, Florida

Combee Settlement, Florida is an unincorporated community located in Polk County. It is situated in central Florida, approximately ten miles northeast of Lakeland. The community got its name from the Combee family, who were some of the earliest settlers in the area.

The history of Combee Settlement dates back to the mid-1800s. The Combee family, originally from Georgia, arrived in the region in the 1860s. They saw the potential for agriculture in the fertile lands of Florida and decided to settle in the area. The family established a farm and began cultivating crops, primarily citrus fruits.

Over time, more settlers arrived in the area, establishing their own farms and contributing to the growth of the community. The introduction of the railroad in the late 19th century further facilitated the agricultural development of Combee Settlement. The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad played a significant role in transporting citrus crops to other parts of Florida and beyond.

The early 20th century brought rapid growth to Combee Settlement. The citrus industry continued to thrive, attracting more settlers and boosting the local economy. Numerous packing houses were established in the area, which helped in sorting and packaging the citrus fruits for transport. The community also had a school, churches, and general stores to cater to the needs of the growing population.

However, the agriculture industry faced several challenges throughout the years. Devastating freezes in the 1890s and 1980s caused significant damage to citrus crops, leading to a decline in production. The community, like many others in Florida, also experienced the impacts of the Great Depression and the downturn in the citrus industry during the mid-20th century.

Despite these challenges, Combee Settlement has remained a tight-knit community with a rich history. Today, while the agriculture industry still plays a role in the area, the community has diversified and grown. Many residents now work in other industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing, while still cherishing the rural charm and historical roots of Combee Settlement.

Attractions

Combee Park

Combee Park

A community park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.

Hollis Garden

A beautiful botanical garden with a variety of plants, flowers, and water features.

Explorations V Children's Museum

A hands-on interactive museum for children to play, learn, and explore.

Sun 'n Fun Aerospace Museum

A museum dedicated to aviation history with aircraft displays and exhibits.

Lakeland Center

A multipurpose venue hosting various concerts, sporting events, and trade shows.

Dixieland Historic District

A neighborhood filled with charming, historic homes, art galleries, and local shops.

Joker Marchant Stadium

A spring training facility for the Detroit Tigers baseball team, offering regular games and events.

Polk Museum of Art

An art museum showcasing a collection of contemporary and modern art exhibits.

Circle B Bar Reserve

A nature reserve with scenic trails, marshland, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities.

Safari Wilderness

A safari park offering guided tours and the chance to see exotic animals up close amidst a natural setting.

Climate

Combee Settlement, FL, experiences a subtropical climate characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters. The region typically has a long growing season due to its year-round warm temperatures.

Summers in Combee Settlement are hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s°F (29°C) to low 90s°F (32°C). It is not uncommon for temperatures to reach the upper 90s°F (around 37°C) during heatwaves. The humidity levels are typically high, which can make the weather feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common in the summer months, providing some relief from the heat.

Winters in Combee Settlement are milder compared to many other parts of the United States. Average high temperatures in winter range from the low to mid-70s°F (around 23°C), with cooler nights. Frost is rare, and snowfall is extremely rare or almost non-existent.

Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year in Combee Settlement, with slightly higher precipitation in the summer months. The area receives an average of around 50 inches (127 cm) of rainfall per year. Hurricanes or tropical storms occasionally affect the region during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.

Overall, Combee Settlement, FL, has a warm and humid climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it suitable for outdoor activities and a comfortable year-round living.

Neighborhoods

Combee Settlement is a small unincorporated community located in Polk County, Florida. It is situated east of Lakeland and is surrounded by various neighborhoods that contribute to its diverse character. Here are some significant neighborhoods in and around Combee Settlement:

Crystal Lake

This is a well-established community known for its scenic views of Crystal Lake. It provides a mix of suburban and rural living with larger residential properties and access to recreational activities on the lake.

Winston

Winston is a neighborhood located in the northern part of Combee Settlement. It offers a mix of single-family homes and townhomes, providing a range of housing options. Winston is known for its sense of community, with various community events and gatherings throughout the year.

Medulla

Located to the southwest, Medulla is a small, tightly-knit community. The area primarily consists of residential properties, including single-family homes, farms, and ranches. It offers a more rural lifestyle, and residents can enjoy open spaces and a slower pace of living.

Lake Parker Park

Situated west of Combee Settlement, Lake Parker Park is a neighborhood that surrounds the scenic Lake Parker. It features a mix of residential properties, parks, and recreational amenities. The lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and water activities.

Gibsonia

Gibsonia is a neighborhood located to the east of Combee Settlement. It is known for its historic charm and rich agricultural heritage. The area features a mix of older homes, as well as newer developments. Gibsonia is also home to several farms and agricultural businesses.

These neighborhoods, while distinct, contribute to the overall character and sense of community in Combee Settlement. Each offers its own unique features and amenities, making the area a diverse and appealing place to live.

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