Fellsmere, FL

Fellsmere is a small city located in Indian River County, Florida, United States. It was incorporated as a town in 1911 and later became a city in 1915. The history of Fellsmere dates back to the late 19th century when the area was primarily used for cattle ranching and farming.

The region was first settled by white settlers in 1877, led by Edward Nelson Fell, a prominent Philadelphia investor and entrepreneur. Fell saw the potential for agricultural development in the area and purchased large tracts of land. He envisioned creating a community based on agriculture, specifically with the cultivation of citrus fruits and vegetables.

Fell established the Fellsmere Farms Company in 1910 and began to drain the marshy land to make it suitable for cultivation. He also constructed a system of canals and ditches to control the water flow. The drainage efforts were successful, and the fertile soil proved to be highly productive.

To attract settlers and support the agricultural activities, Fellsmere Farms Company offered land lots for sale at affordable prices. The project attracted many pioneers, including immigrants from Finland, who were seeking farming opportunities. As a result, a significant Finnish community was established in Fellsmere and played an essential role in the city's development.

A school, churches, a hotel, and a post office were built to cater to the growing population. By 1915, Fellsmere had become a thriving agricultural community, producing various crops such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, beans, potatoes, and sugar cane.

However, in 1918, a devastating hurricane struck the area, causing significant damage to the town and its infrastructure. Many residents were forced to leave, and the town's population rapidly declined. Despite the setback, Fellsmere persisted, and the city experienced a resurgence in the 1930s when drainage and irrigation projects were implemented.

Over the years, Fellsmere has continued to evolve, adapting to changing times and economic conditions. Today, the city remains largely focused on agriculture, with citrus farming being one of the main industries. Fellsmere's small-town charm and rich agricultural heritage attract visitors and residents alike, offering a glimpse into its unique history.

Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival

This annual event celebrates the town's history of frog leg harvesting with live music, carnival rides, arts and crafts, and of course, plenty of frog legs to eat.

Stick Marsh/Farm 13 Reservoir

This popular fishing spot is known for its trophy largemouth bass fishing. Anglers can also find other species such as bluegill, crappie, and catfish.

Blue Cypress Lake

Located just a few miles west of Fellsmere, Blue Cypress Lake offers beautiful scenery and excellent fishing opportunities. Visitors can hire airboat tours to explore the lake and its natural surroundings.

Blue Cypress RV Resort

For those looking to relax and enjoy outdoor activities, this RV resort offers swimming pools, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Blue Cypress Lake.

Fellsmere City Hall Museum

Housed in a historic school building, this museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that illustrate the history and development of Fellsmere and the surrounding area.

Fellsmere Bike Path

This paved trail provides opportunities for outdoor exercise and connects various parts of the town. It is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking.

Marsh Landing Restaurant

Known for its delicious seafood, this local restaurant offers waterfront dining and scenic views of the marshlands.

Historic downtown Fellsmere

Take a stroll through the charming downtown area, where you can find unique shops, local eateries, and historic buildings.

Fellsmere Community Farmers' Market

Held on Friday afternoons, this farmers' market offers a variety of fresh produce, local handcrafted items, and live entertainment.

St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park

Located nearby, this state park offers an array of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, canoeing, and wildlife watching.

Fellsmere, FL has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters. The city experiences a tropical wet and dry season pattern, with distinct wet and dry seasons throughout the year.

Summers in Fellsmere are generally hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the 90s°F (32-35°C) and high humidity levels. The summer months, from June to September, also have frequent afternoon thundershowers and are the wettest time of the year.

Winters in Fellsmere are mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures in the 70s°F (21-26°C). However, occasional cold fronts can bring cooler temperatures, especially during the night when temperatures can drop into the 40s°F (4-9°C). Frost is rare in Fellsmere but not unheard of during cold snaps.

The spring and fall seasons in Fellsmere are transitional periods, with gradually changing temperatures and less rainfall compared to summer. These seasons offer mild and comfortable weather with average high temperatures in the 70s-80s°F (21-32°C).

Overall, Fellsmere has a warm climate throughout the year, with a long growing season that supports agriculture. The city receives an average annual rainfall of around 50-55 inches (127-140 cm) and is prone to occasional tropical storms and hurricanes, especially during the hurricane season, which runs from June to November.

Fellsmere is a small city located in Indian River County, Florida. Despite its small size, Fellsmere is divided into different neighborhoods, each with its own distinct characteristics. Here are some of the neighborhoods of Fellsmere:

Downtown Fellsmere

This is the heart of the city, with the historic downtown area featuring charming streets lined with local shops, restaurants, and businesses. The downtown area is known for its small-town atmosphere and community events.

South Fellsmere

Situated south of downtown, this neighborhood is predominantly residential. It features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartment buildings. South Fellsmere offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment with easy access to local amenities.

North Fellsmere

Located north of downtown, this neighborhood also consists of primarily residential areas. It is known for its larger lots and more spacious homes, often surrounded by lush vegetation and natural landscapes. North Fellsmere provides a tranquil and scenic living environment.

Fellsmere Farms

Situated in the outskirts of the city, Fellsmere Farms is known for its vast agricultural lands. This neighborhood is characterized by large plots of farmland, groves, and nurseries. It is an essential part of Fellsmere's economy and showcases the region's agricultural heritage.

Historic Fellsmere

This area holds the historic spirit of the city, featuring old buildings and residences that reflect the town's past. Many of these structures have been preserved and turned into historic landmarks and attractions. Strolling through historic Fellsmere provides a glimpse into the city's history and culture.

Fellsmere Heights

Situated on higher ground, this neighborhood offers some scenic views of the surrounding area. Fellsmere Heights features a mix of residential properties, including both older homes and newer construction. It is known for its quiet and tight-knit community.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Fellsmere, each contributing to the overall character and charm of the city. Whether you prefer a downtown atmosphere or a more rural and spacious setting, Fellsmere offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit different preferences and lifestyles.