Florida: Past and present together with notes from Sunland, on the Manatee River, Gulf Coast of South Florida: its climate, soil, and productions

In this vivid travelogue the author sketches the Gulf Coast of South Florida, concentrating on the fertile lands along the Manatee River. He describes the warm climate, rich soils, and a surprising array of crops— oranges, guavas, pineapples, cassava— supported by clear illustrations and a detailed map. Prompted by a flood of letters from curious readers, the work expands on an earlier brochure to provide a practical guide to the region’s agricultural promise as of the early 1880s.

The book also weaves a short history, tracing the area from early Spanish explorers through the Seminole conflicts and Florida’s eventual admission to the Union. The author notes how the land’s once‑stormy reputation—mosquitoes, alligators, and untamed swamps—has begun to yield to optimism about settlement. His tone feels like a neighbor sharing reliable information, making the narrative accessible and engaging for listeners interested in the natural and cultural roots of this Gulf‑coast region.