The Wandering Disciple

Nestled along the north bank of Tampa Bay is a shady oasis known as Philippe Park. Acquired by Pinellas County in 1948, the park is oldest park in the county park system. It is named after Count Odet Philippe, the first non-native settler of Pinellas County and pioneer of the citrus industry. Prior to settlement, the site was also home to Tocobaga Indians and there is a large temple mound preserved on the site. (Photo: May 1, 2020)

Just outside Safety Harbor, along the north shore of Old Tampa Bay lies a short but picturesque drive. This canopy road through Philippe Park, the oldest county park in Pinellas County. This 122-acre park is rich in history. It was named after the county's first non-native settler, Count Odet Philippe, who introduced grapefruit to the state of Florida. But before Philippe, the area now encompassing the park had a vast Native American history. This was once home to the Tocobaga Indians and an Indian mound still remains here at the park. It was also believed that Pedro Menedez de Aviles, founder of St Augustine, visit here in 1566 to broker a peace truce between the local Tocobaga and the neighboring Calusa. The history of the park is preserved through Pinellas County and through the National Register of Historic Places. (Photo: May 1, 2020)