Dunedin Florida History

Dunedin is one of the oldest towns on Florida’s west coast and has a history of Scottish heritage, maritime commerce and citrus production. The area was first settled in the 1850s and was first known as “Jonesboro” before being renamed Dunedin in 1882 after the Scottish origins of many of its early settlers. The name is derived from the Gaelic term for Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, and to this day, the city of Dunedin retains its connection to Scotland and its celebration of Scottish culture through events such as the Highland Games and Celtic Festival.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Dunedin flourished as a center of agriculture and trade, specializing in citrus, fishing, and boatbuilding. It was the site of Florida’s first wooden yacht manufacturer, and because of its location on the Gulf of Mexico, it was a significant player in maritime commerce. By mid of the 20th century, Dunedin became a tourist and snowbird haven for its beautiful beaches – including Honeymoon Island – and its cute downtown.

Today Dunedin still preserves historical spirit while developing as a lively arts and cultural center with a craft beer scene, which combines the best of the past and the present.