Koreshan is one of Florida's most unique historic sites. In the 19th century, the charismatic Dr. Cyrus Teed had a religious epiphany and began a new movement in New York. Faced with hostility, he relocated with his followers to Florida in 1894 to found a utopian society. "Koresh" translates to "shepherd," and at its peak the site hosted hundreds of Dr. Teed's followers.
To support themselves, the religous community built homes, a bakery, a machine shop, general stores, printing equipment, boat works, a sawmill, and more. However, following Dr. Teed's death in 1908, the population of the religious settlement began a long decline. In 1961, only four members of the community still lived on the property, and they donated the land to the Florida State Park system.
Today, the buildings have been preserved to educate visitors not only about the Koreshan settlement and ideology, but also about life in South Florida at the turn of the 20th century. Eleven structures still stand with open doors that showcase objects and clothing on display from the late 1800s and early 1900s. The site can be viewed independently or on a regularly scheduled ranger tour.
In addition to the historic structures, the park includes a nature trail, boat ramp, 60-site campground, and playground.
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