The third episode of the Miami History Podcast features the story of Julia Tuttle. Although she was unable to cast a vote during the incorporation of Miami on July 28, 1896, she is regarded by most as the “Mother of Miami” for her vision and contribution to the establishment of the Magic City. Women would be given the right to vote until the passage of the 19th amendment to the United States Constitution in 1920.
Julia was a young woman when she first visited the banks of the Miami River in 1886, but fell in love with the natural beauty of the region. From the moment that she saw the pristine beauty of the area, she began to envision its potential as the next great southern city. After acquiring 640 acres of land on the north side of the Miami River in 1891, she was relentless in soliciting Henry Flagler to extend the railroad to the region.
After the freezes of 1894 – 95, Flagler agreed to her offer to receive half of her land holdings in exchange for extending his railway to the banks of the Miami River and to build a fine hotel on her land contributions. Along with the contributions made by the Brickell family, Miami was transformed from a sleepy wilderness outpost to a vibrant small city almost overnight.
Although she died only two years after incorporation, she did see the beginning of her vision for Miami. She passed away on September 14, 1898, and was one of the first buried in the Miami City Cemetery. Julia Tuttle’s headstone in the memorial park is a reminder of the persistence and vision of her pioneering spirit.
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Miami Pioneer Julia Tuttle