HISTORY OF MONTVERDE, FLORIDA
The original homesteaders in Montverde were John W. Harden, W.H. Porter, John Griggs, Lt. Jim Franklin, and Andrew Shaw. John W. Harden, with his wife Aramenta, came from Chester, SC in 1865 and built a house and founded a town that was called West Apopka. Mr. Harden who was a veteran of two wars and for his service in the Seminole Indian War received a bonus of a Federal Land Grant of 200 acres of land by President Chester Arthur.
The Town of Montverde was incorporated on May 18th, 1925 with a mayor and five councilman. These are the same offices the town government has today. From 1887 to 1969, the town was served by the Tavares and Gulf railroad, used mainly to haul agricultural products. Grapes, citrus and vegetables were the main freight. Past industries included a cement plant, a facility for drying and processing moss for furniture and the original manufacturing plant of the Snapper Mower (originally called the Snappin’ Turtle). The Snapper was developed in Montverde by Alex Smith and his brother Neal and has become well known all over the world.
Montverde today has maintained its small town rural character and life is generally easy-going. The town has its own volunteer fire department with two fire trucks; plus a brush truck for woods fires. All parts of town are served by the municipal water system which includes a network of fire hydrants.
Town Council Closed Session May 16, 2023 5:30 pm at Town Hall
Public Notice – Drinking Water Facility Plan Meeting
Living with Urban Coyotes
Information from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regarding Coyotes.
Town Council Appointment Application – Deadline April 13, 2023 4:00 pm
Applications for appointment to the Town Council must be submitted to the Town Clerk by April 13, 2023 at 4:00 pm. Town Hall is closed on Fridays, weekends and Holidays, please plan accordingly.