The Lemon Bay Historical Society invites you to the 22nd Annual CRACKER FAIR–a real celebration of Old Florida. This is one local tradition you don’t want to skip. They’ve got live, local music, a lemon dessert baking contest, hands-on demonstrations, and plenty more.
Ever wonder what a “Cracker” is?
The name goes way back. Early Florida cow hunters used long, braided leather whips to herd their cattle, making a sharp crack that echoed through the palmettos. That’s where the term comes from.
And here’s a surprise: Florida, not Texas or Missouri, was America’s first cattle state. When Spanish conquistadors landed in the early 1500s, they tried to settle here but faced fierce resistance from Native Americans. Forced to retreat, the explorers left behind horses, hogs, and Andalusian cattle. That was the start of North America’s livestock.
Those animals ran wild for generations. Tough, independent settlers moved into central Florida before the Civil War, using their bullwhips to round up cattle from the scrub. Locals called them Cracker Cowmen or Cow Hunters. Their whips could break the sound barrier with a snap. During the Civil War, they fed Confederate soldiers and rounded up cattle for shipment to Cuba—Cubans paid in gold doubloons for that Florida beef. Today, “Cracker” means anyone with deep roots in Florida soil.
Come enjoy the food, crafts, and fun—there’s something for everyone. Saturday, February 14, at Pioneer Plaza on Dearborn Street in Englewood. Admission’s free. They’re open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Want more info? Call 305.504.7220 or visit www.lemonbayhistory.com.
