How did a hurricane help establish the City of South Miami? Take a look around! This charming place, with its “small-town” atmosphere, has a history as unique as its irregular boundaries. South Miami didn’t start as a city. It began as a pioneer settlement named Larkins, after its founder W.A. Larkins, who arrived here in 1897. Now, imagine a time before paved roads, when this area was a lush wilderness. Larkins established a post office and the first grocery store, laying the groundwork for a community. By the 1920s, Larkins was booming, fueled by a nationwide real estate frenzy. Residents, eager to solidify their identity, decided to incorporate. Thus, in 1926, the “Town of South Miami” was born. But fate had other plans. That same year, the Great Miami Hurricane devastated the region. The town, struggling to recover, felt overlooked by the state and federal governments. Residents believed that being recognized as a city would garner more attention and support. This belief, spurred by the hurricane’s aftermath, led to a petition for city status. Finally, on June 24, 1927, South Miami officially became a city. This change, driven by a desire for recognition and aid, shaped South Miami’s destiny. Today, South Miami stands as a testament to the resilience of its people and a reminder that even from disaster, opportunity can arise.
Glenn Hubert Library
What secrets lie hidden within the walls of a university library? Right here in North Miami, the Glenn Hubert Library