Look Around the Space Coast-Part 7

Today, we'll be discovering a wide area that includes 3 municipalities that all include Melbourne in their names. Since they share a common name and are in close proximity, I thought I'd share all their histories in one article.

First we'll start with Melbourne which has an interesting and diverse history that dates back centuries. Originally inhabited by the Ais and Timucua Native American tribes, it was later discovered by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. The area was mostly unoccupied until the late 1800s when the arrival of the railroad brought in new settlers. In 1888, the town was officially incorporated as Melbourne, named after the Australian city.

Many years later during World War II, the city played a significant role as a military training center. The Naval Air Station Melbourne was established in 1942, and it served as a training ground for thousands of Navy pilots and air crewmen. After the war, the base was converted into the Melbourne International Airport, which continues to serve the region today.

In addition to it's military influence, Melbourne experienced a boom in technology and the new and exciting aerospace industries the 1960s and 70s largely due to the presence of the Kennedy Space Center and the birth of the space program. Companies like Harris Corporation and General Electric set up shop in the area, attracting numerous engineers and professionals. Today, Melbourne is a thriving city with a rich cultural heritage. Its downtown area features historic architecture, museums, art galleries, and a vibrant dining and entertainment scene. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Moving westward, we come to West Melbourne, Florida, a city with a history that dates back to the late 1800s. It was first settled by homesteaders, who were attracted to the area due to its fertile land and beautiful natural surroundings. The town was initially known as West Minton, but the name was changed to West Melbourne in 1919. During the early 1900s, the town's growth was fueled by the arrival of the railroad, which connected West Melbourne to other major cities in Florida. Agriculture and citrus farming were the main economic drivers, with oranges, grapefruits, and other crops being shipped across the country. Expectedly, in the mid-20th century, West Melbourne also experienced a significant change as the aerospace industry began to grow in the region. The city's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center and the Melbourne International Airport made it an attractive location for aerospace companies. Over time, the city transformed from a small agricultural community to a hub for technology and engineering. Today, West Melbourne is a thriving city with a diverse economy. It is home to numerous businesses, including aerospace, technology, and healthcare companies. The city also offers a variety of recreational opportunities, such as parks, golf courses, and nature trails. Despite its growth, West Melbourne has managed to maintain its small-town charm and friendly atmosphere, making it also a great place to live and work.

Finally we come to Melbourne Village, Florida, a small, unincorporated community with a rich history. Founded in the early 1900s, the village was initially established as a citrus farming community. The fertile soil and warm climate made it an ideal location for growing oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits. As the village grew, it developed a strong sense of community and self-sufficiency. Local residents built their homes, churches, and schools, and they relied on each other for support and assistance. Despite its small size, Melbourne Village had a vibrant social scene, with numerous clubs, organizations, and events that brought the community together. Like Melbourne and West Melbourne, the village began to change as the aerospace industry took hold in the region. Many residents found employment in the growing number of aerospace companies, while others continued to work in agriculture and other local industries. Today, Melbourne Village remains a close-knit community with a strong connection to its past. Many of the original homes and buildings still stand, and the village has maintained its small-town charm. While the citrus industry has largely given way to residential development, the community's history is still evident in the architecture, public spaces, and the spirit of the people who call Melbourne Village home.

As you can see, all 3 areas are very closely related and felt a lot of the same growth affects of the space industry. Also, we can see that there are still many lush and spacious areas in each of these municipalities that make living a dream. Hope you'll come as see for yourself why many call these areas home.