Loughman, FL
County: Polk
History
Loughman, Florida is a small unincorporated community located in Polk County. The area was originally settled in the late 1800s as a railroad stop along the South Florida Railroad. It was named after a railroad conductor named Omar Loughman.
The community began to grow as more people were attracted to the area due to the agricultural opportunities that the fertile land provided. The region was known for its orange groves and cattle ranches. Loughman's citrus industry thrived during the early 20th century, and several packing houses were established to process and ship the citrus fruits.
During this time, Loughman also became an important transportation hub. In addition to the railroad, the area was served by several major highways, including US Route 17 and US Route 92, which brought more people and businesses to the community.
Over the years, Loughman experienced periods of growth and decline, largely influenced by factors such as changes in agricultural practices and economic fluctuations. The decline of the citrus industry in the region, as well as the growth of nearby cities such as Orlando and Kissimmee, contributed to the decline of Loughman's prominence.
Today, Loughman primarily serves as a quiet residential community with several developments and subdivisions. Many residents commute to nearby cities for work, while others are employed in the various industries in Polk County. The community still retains some of its rural charm and agricultural heritage, although the majority of farmland has been developed for residential or commercial purposes.
Loughman's location near popular tourist destinations, such as Walt Disney World Resort and other theme parks, has also played a role in the area's development. The community has seen some growth in recent years, with new housing developments catering to the increasing number of people moving to Central Florida.
While Loughman is not an incorporated town, it is served by various local organizations and is considered part of the larger Davenport metro area. Despite its small size and relatively low profile, Loughman continues to be a part of the historical and cultural tapestry of Polk County, Florida.
Attractions
Providence Golf Club
A renowned golf course with beautiful landscapes and challenging holes.
ChampionsGate Golf Club
Another popular golfing destination with two 18-hole championship courses designed by Greg Norman.
Loughman Lake Lodge
A picturesque lodge offering fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing opportunities on Loughman Lake.
Osceola County Historical Society's Pioneer Village
A historic museum complex showcasing various buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Shingle Creek Regional Park
A large nature preserve with hiking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of Shingle Creek.
Lake Marion Golf Resort
A golf course and resort with amenities like tennis courts, swimming pools, and a restaurant.
Central Florida Nature Adventures
Offers airboat tours and eco-educational experiences through the wetlands and marshes of the region.
Aquateneers Dive Center
A scuba diving shop providing courses, gear rental, and diving trips to nearby springs and reefs.
Raccoon Lake Recreation Area
A nearby campground and recreation area where visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, boating, and hiking.
Bok Tower Gardens
Not far from Loughman, this beautiful garden features lush landscapes, a 205-foot-tall singing tower, and peaceful walking paths.
Climate
Loughman, Florida has a humid subtropical climate, which means it experiences long, hot summers and mild winters. The summers are characterized by high temperatures and high humidity levels. Average high temperatures in the summer months of June, July, and August range from 90°F (32°C) to 92°F (33°C), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures even higher. The nighttime temperatures during summer usually range from 70°F (21°C) to 74°F (23°C).
Winter in Loughman is mild with cool temperatures. Average high temperatures in December, January, and February range from 73°F (23°C) to 75°F (24°C), while nighttime temperatures may drop to 50°F (10°C) or lower on some occasions. Snow is extremely rare and usually does not occur in this part of Florida.
Loughman experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, but precipitation is slightly higher during the summer months due to the presence of thunderstorms and the hurricane season. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoons during summer, bringing heavy rains, lightning, and occasional strong winds.
The area is susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes, especially during the hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. However, direct hits from hurricanes are relatively rare in Loughman compared to other parts of Florida. It is important for residents to be prepared and follow evacuation orders in case of severe weather events.
Overall, Loughman, Florida has a warm and humid climate with hot summers and mild winters. It is known for its abundant sunshine and occasional tropical weather patterns.
Neighborhoods
Loughman is a small unincorporated community located in Polk County, Florida. While Loughman itself is not large enough to be categorized into distinct neighborhoods, the community falls within close proximity to several neighboring towns and subdivisions, each with its own characteristics. Here are some notable areas near Loughman:
Champions Gate
Located just north of Loughman, Champions Gate is a large master-planned community known for its luxury homes, golf courses, and resort-style amenities. It offers a mix of residential properties, including single-family homes, townhomes, and vacation rentals.
Providence
Situated to the east of Loughman, Providence is a gated golf community that features an 18-hole championship golf course, clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pool, and tennis courts. The neighborhood primarily comprises single-family homes with various architectural styles.
Reunion
Found to the west of Loughman, Reunion is a prestigious golf resort community that offers a blend of luxury homes, condos, and vacation rentals. It boasts three championship golf courses, a large water park, multiple pools, restaurants, and other amenities.
Davenport
To the south of Loughman, Davenport is a larger town with diverse residential areas. While parts of Davenport have a rural feel, it also includes various neighborhoods with single-family homes, condos, and gated communities. It offers a range of amenities, shopping centers, and dining options.
Haines City
Located east of Loughman, Haines City is a separate city known for its historic downtown area, recreational activities like boating and fishing on Lake Marion, and proximity to nature preserves. Haines City offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and cultural attractions.
These neighboring areas provide residents and visitors to Loughman with a range of housing options, amenities, and recreational activities, catering to different lifestyles and preferences.