In Part 2, I'll be exploring the southern part of Brevard west of US 1. This lovely area is rather rural and more typically "southern" than across the river in Melbourne Beach and South Beaches. If you're looking for a quiet river setting in the "Old South", these areas may be what you're looking for.

Micco is an unincorporated community that was historically inhabited by the Ais and Ais-Seminole Native Americans.

During the Seminole War that was fought between the United States Army and the Seminole people in 1837, Lt. Col. James Bankhead and his Florida militia were sent to the area to fight against the Seminoles who were defending their land and resisting forced relocation to reservations in the West. Bankhead's troops encountered and were ambushed and defeated by a Seminole force led by Chief Coacoochee  in a battle known as the Battle of Micosukee. This event led to the creation of the Micosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. The Battle of Micosukee was a significant event during this war. It is marked as the turning point because the U.S. Army realized the strength and determination of the Seminoles. The Micosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida continues to honor their ancestors' fight for freedom and self-determination. Today, the site of the battle is a popular destination for history buffs and tourists interested in learning about this important chapter in American history. The legacy of the Battle of Micosukee serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by indigenous peoples in the face of colonization and forced relocation.

The area remained sparsely populated until the 1920s when the Florida land boom brought settlers and developers. In the 1950s, the community of Micco was established, primarily made up of retirees and snowbirds.

Within Micco,  there is a census-designated place and a retirement community named Barefoot Bay. It was developed by the Barefoot Bay Corporation, a real estate development company that was founded in the 1970s in the Micco area of Florida. The company was created with the goal of developing and managing the planned community. The founders of the corporation envisioned a place where people could live in harmony with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. They purchased a large tract of land in the area and began designing a residential community that would offer a variety of housing options, recreational facilities, and natural beauty. Over the years, Barefoot Bay Corporation has continued to grow and expand its offerings, becoming one of the most sought-after places to live in Florida. The community boasts a wide range of amenities, including golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, and nature trails. Despite its success, Barefoot Bay Corporation remains committed to preserving the natural beauty of the area and maintaining the vision of its founders. The company's dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship has helped to create a unique and vibrant community that attracts residents from all walks of life.The community has various amenities, including a golf course, clubhouse, and recreational facilities for its residents.

Today, Micco and Barefoot Bay are popular destinations for retirees and vacationers, with a mix of residential neighborhoods, businesses, and recreational facilities. The area's rich history and natural beauty continue to attract people from all over the world.