Florida’s Historic Pineapple Boom Spurred Regional Agriculture Growth

Florida experienced a significant pineapple cultivation boom from the 1860s to the early 1900s, with Key West, Merritt Island, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, and Fort Myers as major production centers. The expansion was aided by the Florida East Coast Railway, enabling shipments across the country and contributing to the local economy, with historic plantations like those on Horr’s Island (now Key Marco) still commemorated today. Pineapple farming was integral to Southwest Florida's development, with figures like Captain John Horr playing key roles. Meanwhile, tropical fruit cultivation continues to be a cultural and agricultural interest in Florida, exemplified by a pastor in Tallahassee who successfully cultivated a Haitian mango tree in a region where such trees rarely survive due to cold conditions. In addition to its agricultural history, the pineapple is also celebrated in cultural expressions, such as poetry that metaphorically explores the fruit's unique physical characteristics and symbolism. For quick culinary enjoyment, pineapple can be soaked in Malibu rum and coconut cream to create an easy, flavorful snack or cocktail garnish.