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A fascinating history of Central Florida's DeLand, the ""Athens of Florida.""

Nestled in Central Florida between the northerly flowing St. Johns River and the alluring beaches of the Atlantic Ocean, DeLand has been described as the ""Athens of Florida."" Founded in 1882, DeLand has fought to maintain a small-town atmosphere even as development surrounds the tranquil city. Balancing a strong sense of community with a willingness to allow progress to knock at its door, DeLand is home to nationally ranked Stetson University, an assortment of inviting cafes, alluring unique shops, determined mom-and-pop stores, and architecturally significant buildings.

Images borrowed from the West Volusia Historical Society's archives and showcased within these pages will educate, enthrall, and entice history buffs, tourists, and residents alike. These vintage photographs link readers to the past and inspire the need to appreciate and protect local heritage. Maggi Smith Hall, Michael Justin Holder, and the West Volusia Historical Society have captured the early appeal of DeLand and its legacy for future generations. Hall is an educator, realtor, writer, and award-winning preservationist. Holder is a graduate student at Stetson University, realtor, avid baseball fan, and writer.