Tangerine, FL
County: Orange
History
Tangerine, Florida is a small unincorporated community located in Orange County. The community's history can be traced back to the late 19th century when the area was primarily used for agriculture.
In the late 1800s, Tangerine was established as a citrus grove and farming community. The area was named after the abundance of tangerine groves that were grown in the region. The warm climate and fertile soil made it an ideal location for growing citrus fruits, including tangerines, oranges, and grapefruits.
Citrus farming quickly became the backbone of Tangerine's economy. Many settlers, primarily from northern states, flocked to the area to take advantage of the thriving citrus industry. The community grew and numerous citrus packing houses were built to process and ship the fruits to various parts of Florida and beyond.
However, Tangerine faced several setbacks throughout its history. In the late 1800s, a severe freeze wiped out much of the citrus industry in the state, including Tangerine. Many farmers lost their crops and livelihoods, causing some to abandon their farms and leave the area.
Despite this setback, Tangerine managed to rebound, and the citrus industry gradually recovered. The community continued to thrive throughout the early 20th century as more settlers arrived, establishing homes, farms, and businesses. The area experienced a prosperous period during the mid-1900s when Florida's citrus industry reached its peak.
In the late 1940s and early 1950s, Tangerine experienced further growth due to the increasing popularity of Florida as a vacation destination. The construction of highways connecting the area to major cities and tourist attractions further boosted the community's economy.
However, as the state's population grew, urbanization and development encroached upon Tangerine. The expansion of nearby cities, such as Orlando, brought about changes to the rural landscape. Many farms and citrus groves were sold and converted into residential areas or commercial properties.
Today, Tangerine retains its rural charm despite its proximity to urban areas. The community is still known for its citrus farms, although the scale of citrus production has significantly decreased over the years. Tangerine has also become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, with nearby attractions such as Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive and the Tangerine Greenway providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
Overall, Tangerine's history is closely tied to the rise and fall of Florida's citrus industry. Despite the challenges faced, the community has managed to preserve its agricultural roots while adapting to the changing times.
Attractions
Tangerine, Florida is a small, unincorporated community located in Lake County. While it may not have major tourist attractions, it is situated in close proximity to several notable destinations. Here are some attractions near Tangerine, FL:
Mount Dora
Just a short drive from Tangerine, the charming town of Mount Dora offers boutique shops, antique stores, art galleries, and dining options. Visitors can explore scenic lakes, take boat tours, or attend festivals and events.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
This scenic drive allows visitors to see an array of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and various aquatic species. The drive provides multiple designated stops with observation towers and nature trails for an up-close experience.
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Located near Apopka, Wekiwa Springs State Park offers opportunities for hiking, swimming, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. There are also camping facilities available for those who wish to spend more time exploring the park.
Renninger's Antique Center
Situated in nearby Mount Dora, Renninger's is one of the largest indoor/outdoor antiques and collectibles markets in Florida. Visitors can browse multiple buildings filled with unique items, including furniture, art, books, and vintage clothing.
Orange County National Golf Center
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at Orange County National Golf Center, which boasts two 18-hole championship courses. The center has hosted numerous professional tournaments and provides a picturesque setting for golfers.
Ocala National Forest
Located northeast of Tangerine, the Ocala National Forest is a vast outdoor playground with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, boating, and swimming in the refreshing springs.
Lake Dora
Tangerine is close to Lake Dora, a scenic lake popular for boating, fishing, and water sports. Several boat tours operate in the area, offering sightseeing excursions and sunset cruises.
While Tangerine itself may not have specific attractions, it is surrounded by scenic locations and nearby destinations that provide plenty of recreational activities and entertainment options.
Climate
The climate of Tangerine, Florida is classified as humid subtropical. It is characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters.
During the summer months, from June to September, temperatures in Tangerine can reach highs of around 90°F (32°C) or even higher, with high humidity levels. The nights tend to be warm as well, with temperatures typically not dropping below 70°F (21°C). Summers are also the wettest season in Tangerine, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and an average of 50-60 inches (127-152 cm) of rainfall annually.
In contrast, winters in Tangerine are generally mild and pleasant. From December to February, average daytime temperatures range from 70°F (21°C) to 75°F (24°C), with cooler nights averaging around 50°F (10°C) to 55°F (13°C). While Tangerine does experience occasional cold fronts, snowfall and freezing temperatures are extremely rare.
Spring and fall seasons in Tangerine are characterized by gradually changing temperatures. Spring, from March to May, sees temperatures warming up with averages ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). The fall season, from October to November, experiences temperatures cooling down, with averages ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 80°F (27°C).
Overall, Tangerine enjoys a pleasant and warm climate throughout the year, making it a desirable location for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a relatively mild winter season.
Neighborhoods
Tangerine, Florida is a small unincorporated community located in Lake County. While it does not have officially defined neighborhoods, there are different areas within Tangerine that offer residents a unique atmosphere and lifestyle. Here are some notable areas within Tangerine:
Tangerine Groves
This is the heart of the community, where you'll find primarily residential homes scattered among the orange groves. The area is known for its tranquil and rural setting, with houses often situated on larger lots or acreages, offering residents privacy and a peaceful environment.
Lake Carlton
Located on the east side of Tangerine, Lake Carlton is a beautiful lakefront area. This neighborhood features stunning lake views and offers residents access to various recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports. It is a popular area for those who seek waterfront living or enjoy outdoor activities.
Royal Trails
While technically located in Eustis, just south of Tangerine, Royal Trails is a nearby community that attracts residents from Tangerine. This neighborhood offers larger residential lots on scenic wooded settings and is popular among those who prefer a more countryside lifestyle, with plenty of space for homes, barns, or even horses.
Mount Dora
Although not directly part of Tangerine, Mount Dora is a picturesque neighboring city, and many Tangerine residents enjoy venturing into Mount Dora to take advantage of its charming downtown area, shops, galleries, and restaurants. Mount Dora also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, attracting visitors from near and far.
It's worth noting that Tangerine, FL is a relatively small community, so the differentiation of neighborhoods is less defined compared to larger cities. However, each area offers its own unique characteristics and appeals to different types of residents, creating a diverse and welcoming community overall.