For homeowners seeking reduced maintenance, the company installs high-quality gutter guards and screening systems that limit debris accumulation while maintaining effective drainage.
For homeowners seeking reduced maintenance, the company installs high-quality gutter guards and screening systems that limit debris accumulation while maintaining effective drainage. Applegarth Seamless Gutters Enhances Roofline Protection With Professional Gutter Services in ArcadiaArcadia, FL – Proper gutter systems play a vital role in roofline and fascia protection, and Applegarth Seamless Gutters is expanding gutter services in Arcadia to address these critical structural needs. From free estimates to professional installation and follow-up support, Applegarth Seamless Gutters prioritizes customer satisfaction at every stage of service. Poorly maintained gutters can lead to rotting fascia boards, roof edge damage, and moisture intrusion-issues Applegarth Seamless Gutters works to prevent through comprehensive service solutions.
Known for honest service, superior craftsmanship, and long-lasting results, the company continues to protect Florida homes from costly water damage through expert gutter solutions. Family-Owned Applegarth Seamless Gutters Strengthens Gutter Services in Arcadia and Surrounding AreasArcadia, FL – As demand for dependable exterior home protection continues to rise, Applegarth Seamless Gutters is strengthening its presence by expanding gutter services in Arcadia and nearby communities. Each project reflects the company's dedication to doing the job right the first time.
With a strong service footprint across Port Charlotte, North Port, Punta Gorda, Venice, Englewood, Sarasota, and Babcock Ranch, the company's expansion into Arcadia ensures homeowners have access to trusted, professional gutter specialists committed to quality and reliability. The company offers a full range of gutter solutions, including seamless gutter installation, routine cleaning, preventative maintenance, and targeted repairs. Seamless gutter systems are custom-fabricated to fit each home precisely, reducing potential failure points and improving overall performance.
Specializing in seamless gutter installation, the company provides precision-fit systems that reduce leaks, improve water flow, and enhance overall durability. Beyond installation, the company emphasizes education and preventative care, helping homeowners understand how proper gutter function contributes to roof longevity, foundation protection, and curb appeal. By integrating gutter performance with roofline protection, the company ensures water is effectively redirected away from vulnerable areas of the home, preserving both appearance and structural soundness.
| Entity | Description | Source |
|---|
| Arcadia, California | Arcadia, California is a city in Los Angeles County, known for its suburban neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and attractions such as the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Santa Anita Park racetrack. | source |
| Downspout | A downspout is a vertical pipe that directs rainwater from a roof gutter down to the ground or drainage system to prevent water damage to structures. | source |
| HomeAdvisor | HomeAdvisor is an online platform that connects homeowners with local service professionals for home improvement, repair, and maintenance projects. | source |
| Roof shingle | A roof shingle is a roof covering made of overlapping elements (commonly asphalt, wood, or slate) designed to protect buildings from weather and provide aesthetic appeal. | source |
| Asphalt | Asphalt is a sticky, black, and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum, widely used for road construction, roofing, and waterproofing. | source |
| Erosion | Erosion is the process by which soil, rock, or other surface material is worn away and transported by natural forces such as wind, water, or ice. | source |
According to The Atlas of Florida, "The Rev. James Madison ("Boss") Hendry (1839–1922) named the town in honor of Arcadia Albritton (1861–1932), a daughter of Thomas H. and Fannie (Waldron) Albritton, pioneer settlers. Arcadia had baked him a cake for his birthday, and he appreciated it so much that he named the city after her.
Company InformationApplegarth Seamless Gutters18480 Paulson Dr, Port Charlotte, FL 33954Phone: +1 941-627-5533Applegarth Seamless Gutters Delivers Professional Gutter Services in Arcadia to Protect Homes From Water DamageArcadia, FL – As water damage continues to be a major concern for Florida homeowners, Applegarth Seamless Gutters is reinforcing its commitment to providing high-quality gutter services in Arcadia. In addition to standard gutter services, Applegarth Seamless Gutters provides gutter guard installation and drainage solutions tailored to Florida's environment. Applegarth Seamless Gutters offers tailored gutter systems designed to handle Florida's intense rainfall. When repairs are needed, experienced technicians address structural issues, leaks, and alignment problems to restore system performance.
With the expansion of gutter services in Arcadia, homeowners now have access to expertly designed systems built to withstand Florida's demanding weather conditions. As a family-owned business, Applegarth Seamless Gutters emphasizes customer relationships, clear communication, and results that stand the test of time. In addition to new installations, Applegarth Seamless Gutters offers comprehensive gutter repair services, addressing common issues such as sagging gutters, joint separation, overflow problems, and storm-related damage. From precision seamless gutter installation to routine gutter cleaning and advanced gutter guard systems, every service is focused on long-term performance and protection.“Our team understands the unique challenges Arcadia homes face during storm season,” the company stated. “That's why we focus on proper water control, drainage efficiency, and durable materials.”By expanding services in Arcadia, Applegarth Seamless Gutters ensures local homeowners have access to dependable gutter professionals who prioritize quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction.
Applegarth Seamless Gutters Brings Expert Gutter Installation and Repair Services to ArcadiaArcadia, FL – Applegarth Seamless Gutters, a family-owned company with more than 35 years of experience, is expanding its professional gutter services in Arcadia, offering expert installation and repair solutions designed to protect homes from Florida's harsh weather conditions. With over 35 years of experience, the company continues to be a trusted name in gutter protection throughout Southwest Florida. Gutter Painting Every project begins with a thorough assessment to ensure proper sizing, placement, and drainage efficiency.
Applegarth Seamless Gutters provides professional cleaning services that restore proper water flow and identify early signs of wear or damage. With more than 35 years of experience, the company has earned the trust of homeowners throughout Southwest Florida. The company's expansion into Arcadia reflects growing demand for professional gutter solutions in the area.
Applegarth Seamless Gutters Provides Long-Lasting Gutter Solutions for Arcadia HomesArcadia, FL – Long-term performance is at the core of every project delivered by Applegarth Seamless Gutters. By prioritizing durability and functionality, Applegarth Seamless Gutters helps Arcadia homeowners protect their investments and avoid recurring gutter issues caused by poor installation or inferior materials. Seamless gutters, gutter guards, and drainage enhancements are selected and installed to provide consistent performance year after year.
With the expansion of gutter services in Arcadia, homeowners now have access to expertly designed systems built to withstand Florida's demanding weather conditions. As a family-owned business, Applegarth Seamless Gutters emphasizes customer relationships, clear communication, and results that stand the test of time. In addition to new installations, Applegarth Seamless Gutters offers comprehensive gutter repair services, addressing common issues such as sagging gutters, joint separation, overflow problems, and storm-related damage. From precision seamless gutter installation to routine gutter cleaning and advanced gutter guard systems, every service is focused on long-term performance and protection.“Our team understands the unique challenges Arcadia homes face during storm season,” the company stated.
Florida's frequent rainfall makes proper gutter function essential for preventing roof deterioration, foundation erosion, and fascia damage. These services are designed to extend the lifespan of gutter systems while helping homeowners avoid costly water-related damage. As Arcadia homeowners seek reliable contractors who stand behind their work, Applegarth Seamless Gutters remains a trusted choice for durable, well-executed gutter solutions. Applegarth Seamless Gutters Offers Complete Gutter Services in Arcadia Including Guards, Cleaning, and RepairsArcadia, FL – Applegarth Seamless Gutters is now offering comprehensive gutter services in Arcadia, providing homeowners with a single trusted source for installation, cleaning, repairs, and gutter guard solutions.
With over three decades of experience, the company understands the importance of proactive gutter care in Florida's climate. With decades of hands-on experience, the company delivers solutions that help prevent foundation issues, roof damage, and landscape erosion. Based in Port Charlotte, Applegarth Seamless Gutters provides comprehensive gutter installation, cleaning, maintenance, and repair services across Southwest Florida, including Arcadia and surrounding communities.
Services include seamless gutter installation, gutter maintenance, gutter guard systems, drainage improvements, and fascia repairs to ensure optimal performance year-round. gutter Homeowners Turn to Applegarth Seamless Gutters for Reliable Gutter Services in ArcadiaArcadia, FL – More homeowners are choosing Applegarth Seamless Gutters for dependable gutter services in Arcadia, thanks to the company's long-standing reputation for quality workmanship and honest service.
Company InformationApplegarth Seamless Gutters18480 Paulson Dr, Port Charlotte, FL 33954Phone: +1 941-627-5533Applegarth Seamless Gutters Delivers Professional Gutter Services in Arcadia to Protect Homes From Water DamageArcadia, FL – As water damage continues to be a major concern for Florida homeowners, Applegarth Seamless Gutters is reinforcing its commitment to providing high-quality gutter services in Arcadia. In addition to standard gutter services, Applegarth Seamless Gutters provides gutter guard installation and drainage solutions tailored to Florida's environment. Applegarth Seamless Gutters offers tailored gutter systems designed to handle Florida's intense rainfall. When repairs are needed, experienced technicians address structural issues, leaks, and alignment problems to restore system performance. Applegarth Seamless Gutters approaches every Arcadia project with a focus on long-term performance, using high-quality materials and proven installation techniques. Gutter Debris Removal
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Arcadia, Florida
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| City of Arcadia | |
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Seal
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Location of Arcadia in DeSoto County, Florida....
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| Coordinates: 27°12′54″N 81°51′32″W / 27.215°N 81.859°W | |
| Country | United States of America |
| State | Florida |
| County | DeSoto |
| Incorporated | 1886 |
| Named after | Arcadia Albritton |
| Government
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|
| • Type | Mayor-Council |
| • Mayor | Robert W. Heine Jr. |
| • Deputy Mayor | Keith Keene |
| • Council Members | Mike Hall, Amber Collins, and Judy Wertz-Strickland |
| • City Administrator | Terry Stewart |
| • City Clerk | Penny Delaney |
| Area | |
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• Total
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4.43 sq mi (11.48 km2) |
| • Land | 4.43 sq mi (11.47 km2) |
| • Water | 0.0077 sq mi (0.02 km2) |
| Elevation
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60 ft (18 m) |
| Population
(2020)
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• Total
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7,420 |
| • Density | 1,675.7/sq mi (647.01/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (EST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP codes |
34265, 34266, 34269
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| Area code | 863 |
| FIPS code | 12-01750 |
| Website | www |
Arcadia is a city and county seat of DeSoto County, Florida, United States. Arcadia's Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its population was 7,420 as of the 2020 census, down from 7,637 at the 2010 census. It is the principal city of the Arcadia, Florida Micropolitan Statistical Area.
The area has a history of ranching and citrus growing. Citrus greening hurt the area's citrus industry.
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This section needs additional citations for verification. (January 2015)
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According to The Atlas of Florida, "The Rev. James Madison ("Boss") Hendry (1839–1922) named the town in honor of Arcadia Albritton (1861–1932), a daughter of Thomas H. and Fannie (Waldron) Albritton, pioneer settlers. Arcadia had baked him a cake for his birthday, and he appreciated it so much that he named the city after her."[2]
In 1886, transportation improved in Arcadia when the Florida Southern Railway (later the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad) was built through Arcadia on its way from Bartow to Punta Gorda. The railway caused Arcadia to grow significantly, which led to it becoming incorporated a year later.[3] A second railroad line, the Charlotte Harbor and Northern Railway (later the Seaboard Air Line Railroad), was built through Arcadia from 1907 to 1910 on its way from Mulberry to Boca Grande. Both lines have since been consolidated into a single line by CSX with the Seaboard line surviving north of Arcadia and the Atlantic Coast Line surviving to the south. Arcadia was also served by the short-lived East and West Coast Railway, which connected Arcadia with Bradenton from 1915 to 1934.[4]
During the late 19th century Arcadia was the county seat of what would become many counties. In 1921, legislation enacted called for Arcadia to remain the county seat of DeSoto County and resulted in the creation of the present-day counties of Charlotte, Hardee, Glades and Highlands. Prior to this breakup, Arcadia's population had grown considerably, with over 1,000 permanent residents and 3,000 sq mi (7,800 km2) for ranching.
On Thanksgiving Day in 1905, the town was destroyed by a fire that originated from a midtown livery stable. The fire was exacerbated because the town did not have a working water system or fire department. The estimated monetary damage was $250,000, but no loss of life occurred. Much of the business district was not spared. The town recovered only years later.
Oak Street is the "main street" in Arcadia. The downtown is far more elaborate than neighboring counties' downtown areas, as Arcadia is older and was their county seat prior to the formation of their present counties. Arcadia is also home to many early 20th-century homes, houses of worship, and several historic public buildings.
From 1917 to 1922, Arcadia was the home of Carlstrom Field, a grass airfield of the U.S. Army Air Service named for deceased aviation pioneer Victor Carlstrom. Carlstrom Field was used for pilot training both during and after World War I. In May 1941, the site again became an airfield for military primary flight training, operated by the Embry–Riddle Aeronautical Institute (now Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University). Carlstrom Field, one of several satellite fields in the Fort Myers area, also trained pilots for the Royal Air Force until its closing in 1945. 23 RAF cadets that died during training are commemorated in Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Arcadia's historic buildings include the Johnson-Smith House, William Oswell Ralls House, and Micajah T. Singleton House. Also, around 3,400 acres, which includes the downtown area, are part of the Arcadia Historic District.
After three Arcadia children, the Ray brothers, were diagnosed with HIV in 1986, school officials refused to let them attend school. The Ray family won a $1.1 million judgement against the county school system, but were forced to leave Arcadia after their home was burned down in 1987, in what has been described as "almost certainly a case of arson."[5]
In 2004, Arcadia was heavily damaged by Hurricane Charley, during which the eye went over the city, with winds measured up to 109 mph (49 m/s) at 5:27 pm. The winds were suspected to be stronger outside the city, but cannot be proven due to the lack of equipment outside the city. The city's only shelter, the Turner Agri Civic Center, was a shelter made to withstand winds over 100 mph (45 m/s), but it collapsed during the storm. Everyone evacuated into the hallways and the kitchen of the Turner Center prior to the collapse.[6] The people in the Turner Agri Civic Center were evacuated to DeSoto High School, but soon, part of its roof collapsed. In the center of the town, the Old Opera House's roof was peeled off, causing severe water damage. The hurricane severely damaged downtown, especially businesses on Oak Street and Polk Street. Eventually, the Red Cross shelter was forced to evacuate due to the collapsing of the building. The city water tower crumpled along Florida State Road 70 and was never replaced after the hurricane. The city's only hospital was heavily damaged, with 35 windows shattering. Part of the roof peeled back, which exposed equipment and patients to the wind-driven rain. This caused an estimated $2.3 million in damages to the hospital.[7] Hurricane Charley caused 3,600 homes to be destroyed or heavily damaged, and displaced 16,000 people.[8] The exact amount of damage is not known, but it was ln the millions of dollars. Two people died in DeSoto County during the storm, and 150 people were injured. Many residents of the town left and never came back.[9]
After Hurricane Charley, the people in DeSoto High School were taken to the middle school nearby, where at least 75 people spent the night in the middle school's gymnasium.[10] The hurricane caused downtown to be heavily damaged. The storm caused 90% of homes in DeSoto County to be damaged and 60% to be uninhabitable or destroyed. The National Guard was deployed to the city and started the cleanup process and enforced a strict curfew in the city. The people of Arcadia came together and started helping each other after the storm, from feeding people to rebuilding. Although during the rebuilding process, the first wave of the Great Recession began, the people of Arcadia were able to rebuild their homes and bring new homes to the city. Downtown Arcadia was rebuilt, but some parts of the county are still damaged from Hurricane Charley. About 12 years were needed to rebuild, but parts of the city and county are still damaged from it.
In 2017, Hurricane Irma went over the city as a category 1 hurricane. It did not cause a huge amount of damage to the city. Some of the downtown area was damaged, with the Oak Park Inn taking considerable damage, and was not able to open for 4 months after the storm. Parts of DeSoto County were flooded, especially communities on the Peace River. The storm dropped 10-15 in of rain near Morgan Park on the Peace River. The river and its tributaries flooded roadways, homes, and parks. The damage extent is unknown.[11]
In March 2020, Arcadia declared a local state of emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.[12] DeSoto county has had 10,174 cases of COVID-19.
On September 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian Made Landfall near Cayo Costa. The Hurricane struck as a strong Category 4 Hurricane, near Category 5 strength. The storm would go over the city of Arcadia as a Category 3 Hurricane. The Hurricane would cause major flooding along the Peace River, flooding homes and roads near or on the river. SR-72 collapsed, and buildings and homes in Arcadia would be damaged.
Arcadia is located slightly northwest of the center of DeSoto County at
27°12′54″N 81°51′32″W / 27.215°N 81.859°W (27.2176, –81.8599). The Peace River flows past the west side of the city on its way southwest to tidewater at Punta Gorda. Nearby Southeast Arcadia occupies a larger section of land, hosting a nearly equal, yet more dispersed population. Most of Arcadia is more than 40 feet (12 m) above sea level and portions of Arcadia near the center of the city are as high as 65 feet (20 m) above sea level, giving Arcadia one of the highest elevations for a city in Florida.
U.S. Route 17 passes through the center of Arcadia, leading north 50 miles (80 km) to Bartow and southwest 26 miles (42 km) to its terminus at Punta Gorda. Florida State Road 70 crosses US 17 in the center of Arcadia and leads east 64 miles (103 km) to Okeechobee and west-northwest 48 miles (77 km) to South Bradenton. Via SR 72, which splits from SR 70 just west of Arcadia, it is 44 miles (71 km) west to South Sarasota.
According to the United States Census Bureau, Arcadia has a total area of 4.1 square miles (10.6 km2), of which 0.01 square miles (0.02 km2), or 0.15%, is covered by water.
According to the Köppen climate classification, Arcadia has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa/Cwa), with hot, humid summers and warm, drier winters.
| Climate data for Arcadia, Florida, 1991–2020 normals, extremes 1899–2021 | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 88 (31) |
92 (33) |
95 (35) |
98 (37) |
103 (39) |
104 (40) |
101 (38) |
101 (38) |
98 (37) |
98 (37) |
93 (34) |
89 (32) |
104 (40) |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) | 83.7 (28.7) |
85.0 (29.4) |
87.7 (30.9) |
91.3 (32.9) |
94.4 (34.7) |
95.5 (35.3) |
95.3 (35.2) |
95.2 (35.1) |
93.9 (34.4) |
90.9 (32.7) |
87.1 (30.6) |
84.5 (29.2) |
96.6 (35.9) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 73.5 (23.1) |
76.1 (24.5) |
80.0 (26.7) |
84.2 (29.0) |
89.1 (31.7) |
90.7 (32.6) |
91.4 (33.0) |
91.6 (33.1) |
89.9 (32.2) |
85.6 (29.8) |
79.5 (26.4) |
75.4 (24.1) |
83.9 (28.8) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 60.3 (15.7) |
63.1 (17.3) |
66.5 (19.2) |
71.1 (21.7) |
76.4 (24.7) |
80.0 (26.7) |
81.3 (27.4) |
81.6 (27.6) |
80.1 (26.7) |
74.8 (23.8) |
67.6 (19.8) |
63.1 (17.3) |
72.2 (22.3) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 47.1 (8.4) |
50.1 (10.1) |
53.1 (11.7) |
58.0 (14.4) |
63.8 (17.7) |
69.4 (20.8) |
71.2 (21.8) |
71.6 (22.0) |
70.4 (21.3) |
64.0 (17.8) |
55.7 (13.2) |
50.8 (10.4) |
60.4 (15.8) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) | 30.4 (−0.9) |
33.6 (0.9) |
37.6 (3.1) |
44.7 (7.1) |
53.9 (12.2) |
65.4 (18.6) |
68.7 (20.4) |
68.8 (20.4) |
65.8 (18.8) |
51.2 (10.7) |
41.2 (5.1) |
34.9 (1.6) |
28.4 (−2.0) |
| Record low °F (°C) | 18 (−8) |
21 (−6) |
26 (−3) |
32 (0) |
39 (4) |
52 (11) |
61 (16) |
60 (16) |
55 (13) |
38 (3) |
23 (−5) |
18 (−8) |
18 (−8) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 2.31 (59) |
2.00 (51) |
2.44 (62) |
2.72 (69) |
3.78 (96) |
9.55 (243) |
8.19 (208) |
8.93 (227) |
7.77 (197) |
2.58 (66) |
1.83 (46) |
1.82 (46) |
53.92 (1,370) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) | 5.3 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 5.1 | 6.4 | 14.1 | 15.2 | 15.9 | 12.6 | 6.3 | 4.4 | 5.1 | 100.1 |
| Source 1: NOAA[13] | |||||||||||||
| Source 2: XMACIS2[14] | |||||||||||||
| Census | Pop. | Note | %± |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1900 | 799 | — | |
| 1910 | 1,736 | 117.3% | |
| 1920 | 3,479 | 100.4% | |
| 1930 | 4,082 | 17.3% | |
| 1940 | 4,055 | −0.7% | |
| 1950 | 4,764 | 17.5% | |
| 1960 | 5,889 | 23.6% | |
| 1970 | 5,658 | −3.9% | |
| 1980 | 6,002 | 6.1% | |
| 1990 | 6,488 | 8.1% | |
| 2000 | 6,604 | 1.8% | |
| 2010 | 7,637 | 15.6% | |
| 2020 | 7,420 | −2.8% | |
| U.S. Decennial Census[15] | |||
| Race | Pop 2010[16] | Pop 2020[17] | % 2010 | % 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White (NH) | 3,062 | 2,905 | 40.09% | 39.15% |
| Black or African American (NH) | 1,876 | 1,825 | 24.56% | 24.60% |
| Native American or Alaska Native (NH) | 10 | 12 | 0.13% | 0.16% |
| Asian (NH) | 51 | 67 | 0.67% | 0.90% |
| Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian (NH) | 0 | 0 | 0.00% | 0.00% |
| Some other race (NH) | 8 | 23 | 0.10% | 0.31% |
| Two or more races/Multiracial (NH) | 96 | 232 | 1.26% | 3.13% |
| Hispanic or Latino (any race) | 2,534 | 2,356 | 33.18% | 31.75% |
| Total | 7,637 | 7,420 |
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 7,420 people, 2,953 households, and 1,755 families residing in the city.[18]
In 2020, about 5.1% of the population were under 5 years old, 26.2% were under 18, and 13.7% were 65 and over; 49.9% of the population were female.[19]
In 2020, 256 veterans were living in the city and 14.7% of the population were foreign-born. About 69.5% of the households had a computer and 58.0% had a broadband internet subscription. Around 80.9% of the population 25 and older were high-school graduates and 15.2% of that same population had a bachelor's degree or higher. Around 7.4% of the population under 65 had a disability and 17.3% of that same population did not have health insurance.[19]
In 2020, the median household income was $34,003 and the per capita income was $18,376; 30.2% of the population lived below the poverty threshold.[19]
As of the 2010 United States census, there were 7,637 people, 2,460 households, and 1,664 families residing in the city.[20]
The City of Arcadia was created by an act of the Florida Legislature in 1886. Currently, the city is governed by a mayor-council form of government, with five council members elected at large to four-year terms of office, who in turn appoint a city manager to run the daily operation of the city. The council annually chooses a mayor and deputy mayor, who serve in the capacity of chairman of meetings and at ceremonial functions. Also elected by the residents is a city marshal who acts as chief of police. In addition to police service, the city provides residents with a water/sewer system, trash pickup, planning and zoning services, and public works.
Arcadia Municipal Airport is a public-use airport located 1 mile (1.6 km) southeast of the central business district. The City of Arcadia operates the day-to-day operations of the airport. The airport has a deep history of aviation, with the old Carlstrom and Dorr training fields in DeSoto County. It is leading the state in low fuel prices and has a fly-in and camp facility called Aviation City. Arcadia Municipal Airport hosts an annual Aviation Day event in March. The event consists of a static display of aircraft, biplane rides, helicopter rides, and a skydiving demonstration, but bigger plans are in the works.
Arcadia is located on the Peace River, the major tributary of the Charlotte Harbor estuary. The river offers fine canoeing, shark-tooth hunting, and natural habitats. Tours, recreational accessories, and accommodations are readily available.
Arcadia hosts DeSoto County's annual fair usually in the month of January. While traditional aspects of a fair or carnival are provided, the event also presents livestock shows consisting of swine and cattle, which are presented by the local FFA and 4-H.
Arcadia is also the home of three rodeos. These events, which are managed by the local rodeo association, occur during the month of March, the Fourth of July holiday, and in the fall. From the profits of these events many local charities, college scholarships and causes receive funding.
Arcadia is one of the largest groupings of antique dealers in the state, all located conveniently in the downtown area. The local dealers' association sponsors a "4th Saturday Antique Fair" each month from 8 am to 3 pm, bringing an additional 60 to 120 independent dealers in for the event.
Arcadia has numerous parades throughout the year—a Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade, a March rodeo parade, a Cinco de Mayo parade, an Independence Day parade, an October Homecoming parade, a Veterans Day parade, and a Christmas parade.
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This section needs additional citations for verification. (May 2021)
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Arcadia, Florida
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| City of Arcadia | |
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Seal
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Location of Arcadia in DeSoto County, Florida....
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| Coordinates: 27°12′54″N 81°51′32″W / 27.215°N 81.859°W | |
| Country | United States of America |
| State | Florida |
| County | DeSoto |
| Incorporated | 1886 |
| Named after | Arcadia Albritton |
| Government
|
|
| • Type | Mayor-Council |
| • Mayor | Robert W. Heine Jr. |
| • Deputy Mayor | Keith Keene |
| • Council Members | Mike Hall, Amber Collins, and Judy Wertz-Strickland |
| • City Administrator | Terry Stewart |
| • City Clerk | Penny Delaney |
| Area | |
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• Total
|
4.43 sq mi (11.48 km2) |
| • Land | 4.43 sq mi (11.47 km2) |
| • Water | 0.0077 sq mi (0.02 km2) |
| Elevation
|
60 ft (18 m) |
| Population
(2020)
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• Total
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7,420 |
| • Density | 1,675.7/sq mi (647.01/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (EST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP codes |
34265, 34266, 34269
|
| Area code | 863 |
| FIPS code | 12-01750 |
| Website | www |
Arcadia is a city and county seat of DeSoto County, Florida, United States. Arcadia's Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its population was 7,420 as of the 2020 census, down from 7,637 at the 2010 census. It is the principal city of the Arcadia, Florida Micropolitan Statistical Area.
The area has a history of ranching and citrus growing. Citrus greening hurt the area's citrus industry.
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This section needs additional citations for verification. (January 2015)
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According to The Atlas of Florida, "The Rev. James Madison ("Boss") Hendry (1839–1922) named the town in honor of Arcadia Albritton (1861–1932), a daughter of Thomas H. and Fannie (Waldron) Albritton, pioneer settlers. Arcadia had baked him a cake for his birthday, and he appreciated it so much that he named the city after her."[2]
In 1886, transportation improved in Arcadia when the Florida Southern Railway (later the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad) was built through Arcadia on its way from Bartow to Punta Gorda. The railway caused Arcadia to grow significantly, which led to it becoming incorporated a year later.[3] A second railroad line, the Charlotte Harbor and Northern Railway (later the Seaboard Air Line Railroad), was built through Arcadia from 1907 to 1910 on its way from Mulberry to Boca Grande. Both lines have since been consolidated into a single line by CSX with the Seaboard line surviving north of Arcadia and the Atlantic Coast Line surviving to the south. Arcadia was also served by the short-lived East and West Coast Railway, which connected Arcadia with Bradenton from 1915 to 1934.[4]
During the late 19th century Arcadia was the county seat of what would become many counties. In 1921, legislation enacted called for Arcadia to remain the county seat of DeSoto County and resulted in the creation of the present-day counties of Charlotte, Hardee, Glades and Highlands. Prior to this breakup, Arcadia's population had grown considerably, with over 1,000 permanent residents and 3,000 sq mi (7,800 km2) for ranching.
On Thanksgiving Day in 1905, the town was destroyed by a fire that originated from a midtown livery stable. The fire was exacerbated because the town did not have a working water system or fire department. The estimated monetary damage was $250,000, but no loss of life occurred. Much of the business district was not spared. The town recovered only years later.
Oak Street is the "main street" in Arcadia. The downtown is far more elaborate than neighboring counties' downtown areas, as Arcadia is older and was their county seat prior to the formation of their present counties. Arcadia is also home to many early 20th-century homes, houses of worship, and several historic public buildings.
From 1917 to 1922, Arcadia was the home of Carlstrom Field, a grass airfield of the U.S. Army Air Service named for deceased aviation pioneer Victor Carlstrom. Carlstrom Field was used for pilot training both during and after World War I. In May 1941, the site again became an airfield for military primary flight training, operated by the Embry–Riddle Aeronautical Institute (now Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University). Carlstrom Field, one of several satellite fields in the Fort Myers area, also trained pilots for the Royal Air Force until its closing in 1945. 23 RAF cadets that died during training are commemorated in Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Arcadia's historic buildings include the Johnson-Smith House, William Oswell Ralls House, and Micajah T. Singleton House. Also, around 3,400 acres, which includes the downtown area, are part of the Arcadia Historic District.
After three Arcadia children, the Ray brothers, were diagnosed with HIV in 1986, school officials refused to let them attend school. The Ray family won a $1.1 million judgement against the county school system, but were forced to leave Arcadia after their home was burned down in 1987, in what has been described as "almost certainly a case of arson."[5]
In 2004, Arcadia was heavily damaged by Hurricane Charley, during which the eye went over the city, with winds measured up to 109 mph (49 m/s) at 5:27 pm. The winds were suspected to be stronger outside the city, but cannot be proven due to the lack of equipment outside the city. The city's only shelter, the Turner Agri Civic Center, was a shelter made to withstand winds over 100 mph (45 m/s), but it collapsed during the storm. Everyone evacuated into the hallways and the kitchen of the Turner Center prior to the collapse.[6] The people in the Turner Agri Civic Center were evacuated to DeSoto High School, but soon, part of its roof collapsed. In the center of the town, the Old Opera House's roof was peeled off, causing severe water damage. The hurricane severely damaged downtown, especially businesses on Oak Street and Polk Street. Eventually, the Red Cross shelter was forced to evacuate due to the collapsing of the building. The city water tower crumpled along Florida State Road 70 and was never replaced after the hurricane. The city's only hospital was heavily damaged, with 35 windows shattering. Part of the roof peeled back, which exposed equipment and patients to the wind-driven rain. This caused an estimated $2.3 million in damages to the hospital.[7] Hurricane Charley caused 3,600 homes to be destroyed or heavily damaged, and displaced 16,000 people.[8] The exact amount of damage is not known, but it was ln the millions of dollars. Two people died in DeSoto County during the storm, and 150 people were injured. Many residents of the town left and never came back.[9]
After Hurricane Charley, the people in DeSoto High School were taken to the middle school nearby, where at least 75 people spent the night in the middle school's gymnasium.[10] The hurricane caused downtown to be heavily damaged. The storm caused 90% of homes in DeSoto County to be damaged and 60% to be uninhabitable or destroyed. The National Guard was deployed to the city and started the cleanup process and enforced a strict curfew in the city. The people of Arcadia came together and started helping each other after the storm, from feeding people to rebuilding. Although during the rebuilding process, the first wave of the Great Recession began, the people of Arcadia were able to rebuild their homes and bring new homes to the city. Downtown Arcadia was rebuilt, but some parts of the county are still damaged from Hurricane Charley. About 12 years were needed to rebuild, but parts of the city and county are still damaged from it.
In 2017, Hurricane Irma went over the city as a category 1 hurricane. It did not cause a huge amount of damage to the city. Some of the downtown area was damaged, with the Oak Park Inn taking considerable damage, and was not able to open for 4 months after the storm. Parts of DeSoto County were flooded, especially communities on the Peace River. The storm dropped 10-15 in of rain near Morgan Park on the Peace River. The river and its tributaries flooded roadways, homes, and parks. The damage extent is unknown.[11]
In March 2020, Arcadia declared a local state of emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.[12] DeSoto county has had 10,174 cases of COVID-19.
On September 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian Made Landfall near Cayo Costa. The Hurricane struck as a strong Category 4 Hurricane, near Category 5 strength. The storm would go over the city of Arcadia as a Category 3 Hurricane. The Hurricane would cause major flooding along the Peace River, flooding homes and roads near or on the river. SR-72 collapsed, and buildings and homes in Arcadia would be damaged.
Arcadia is located slightly northwest of the center of DeSoto County at
27°12′54″N 81°51′32″W / 27.215°N 81.859°W (27.2176, –81.8599). The Peace River flows past the west side of the city on its way southwest to tidewater at Punta Gorda. Nearby Southeast Arcadia occupies a larger section of land, hosting a nearly equal, yet more dispersed population. Most of Arcadia is more than 40 feet (12 m) above sea level and portions of Arcadia near the center of the city are as high as 65 feet (20 m) above sea level, giving Arcadia one of the highest elevations for a city in Florida.
U.S. Route 17 passes through the center of Arcadia, leading north 50 miles (80 km) to Bartow and southwest 26 miles (42 km) to its terminus at Punta Gorda. Florida State Road 70 crosses US 17 in the center of Arcadia and leads east 64 miles (103 km) to Okeechobee and west-northwest 48 miles (77 km) to South Bradenton. Via SR 72, which splits from SR 70 just west of Arcadia, it is 44 miles (71 km) west to South Sarasota.
According to the United States Census Bureau, Arcadia has a total area of 4.1 square miles (10.6 km2), of which 0.01 square miles (0.02 km2), or 0.15%, is covered by water.
According to the Köppen climate classification, Arcadia has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa/Cwa), with hot, humid summers and warm, drier winters.
| Climate data for Arcadia, Florida, 1991–2020 normals, extremes 1899–2021 | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 88 (31) |
92 (33) |
95 (35) |
98 (37) |
103 (39) |
104 (40) |
101 (38) |
101 (38) |
98 (37) |
98 (37) |
93 (34) |
89 (32) |
104 (40) |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) | 83.7 (28.7) |
85.0 (29.4) |
87.7 (30.9) |
91.3 (32.9) |
94.4 (34.7) |
95.5 (35.3) |
95.3 (35.2) |
95.2 (35.1) |
93.9 (34.4) |
90.9 (32.7) |
87.1 (30.6) |
84.5 (29.2) |
96.6 (35.9) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 73.5 (23.1) |
76.1 (24.5) |
80.0 (26.7) |
84.2 (29.0) |
89.1 (31.7) |
90.7 (32.6) |
91.4 (33.0) |
91.6 (33.1) |
89.9 (32.2) |
85.6 (29.8) |
79.5 (26.4) |
75.4 (24.1) |
83.9 (28.8) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 60.3 (15.7) |
63.1 (17.3) |
66.5 (19.2) |
71.1 (21.7) |
76.4 (24.7) |
80.0 (26.7) |
81.3 (27.4) |
81.6 (27.6) |
80.1 (26.7) |
74.8 (23.8) |
67.6 (19.8) |
63.1 (17.3) |
72.2 (22.3) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 47.1 (8.4) |
50.1 (10.1) |
53.1 (11.7) |
58.0 (14.4) |
63.8 (17.7) |
69.4 (20.8) |
71.2 (21.8) |
71.6 (22.0) |
70.4 (21.3) |
64.0 (17.8) |
55.7 (13.2) |
50.8 (10.4) |
60.4 (15.8) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) | 30.4 (−0.9) |
33.6 (0.9) |
37.6 (3.1) |
44.7 (7.1) |
53.9 (12.2) |
65.4 (18.6) |
68.7 (20.4) |
68.8 (20.4) |
65.8 (18.8) |
51.2 (10.7) |
41.2 (5.1) |
34.9 (1.6) |
28.4 (−2.0) |
| Record low °F (°C) | 18 (−8) |
21 (−6) |
26 (−3) |
32 (0) |
39 (4) |
52 (11) |
61 (16) |
60 (16) |
55 (13) |
38 (3) |
23 (−5) |
18 (−8) |
18 (−8) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 2.31 (59) |
2.00 (51) |
2.44 (62) |
2.72 (69) |
3.78 (96) |
9.55 (243) |
8.19 (208) |
8.93 (227) |
7.77 (197) |
2.58 (66) |
1.83 (46) |
1.82 (46) |
53.92 (1,370) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) | 5.3 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 5.1 | 6.4 | 14.1 | 15.2 | 15.9 | 12.6 | 6.3 | 4.4 | 5.1 | 100.1 |
| Source 1: NOAA[13] | |||||||||||||
| Source 2: XMACIS2[14] | |||||||||||||
| Census | Pop. | Note | %± |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1900 | 799 | — | |
| 1910 | 1,736 | 117.3% | |
| 1920 | 3,479 | 100.4% | |
| 1930 | 4,082 | 17.3% | |
| 1940 | 4,055 | −0.7% | |
| 1950 | 4,764 | 17.5% | |
| 1960 | 5,889 | 23.6% | |
| 1970 | 5,658 | −3.9% | |
| 1980 | 6,002 | 6.1% | |
| 1990 | 6,488 | 8.1% | |
| 2000 | 6,604 | 1.8% | |
| 2010 | 7,637 | 15.6% | |
| 2020 | 7,420 | −2.8% | |
| U.S. Decennial Census[15] | |||
| Race | Pop 2010[16] | Pop 2020[17] | % 2010 | % 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White (NH) | 3,062 | 2,905 | 40.09% | 39.15% |
| Black or African American (NH) | 1,876 | 1,825 | 24.56% | 24.60% |
| Native American or Alaska Native (NH) | 10 | 12 | 0.13% | 0.16% |
| Asian (NH) | 51 | 67 | 0.67% | 0.90% |
| Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian (NH) | 0 | 0 | 0.00% | 0.00% |
| Some other race (NH) | 8 | 23 | 0.10% | 0.31% |
| Two or more races/Multiracial (NH) | 96 | 232 | 1.26% | 3.13% |
| Hispanic or Latino (any race) | 2,534 | 2,356 | 33.18% | 31.75% |
| Total | 7,637 | 7,420 |
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 7,420 people, 2,953 households, and 1,755 families residing in the city.[18]
In 2020, about 5.1% of the population were under 5 years old, 26.2% were under 18, and 13.7% were 65 and over; 49.9% of the population were female.[19]
In 2020, 256 veterans were living in the city and 14.7% of the population were foreign-born. About 69.5% of the households had a computer and 58.0% had a broadband internet subscription. Around 80.9% of the population 25 and older were high-school graduates and 15.2% of that same population had a bachelor's degree or higher. Around 7.4% of the population under 65 had a disability and 17.3% of that same population did not have health insurance.[19]
In 2020, the median household income was $34,003 and the per capita income was $18,376; 30.2% of the population lived below the poverty threshold.[19]
As of the 2010 United States census, there were 7,637 people, 2,460 households, and 1,664 families residing in the city.[20]
The City of Arcadia was created by an act of the Florida Legislature in 1886. Currently, the city is governed by a mayor-council form of government, with five council members elected at large to four-year terms of office, who in turn appoint a city manager to run the daily operation of the city. The council annually chooses a mayor and deputy mayor, who serve in the capacity of chairman of meetings and at ceremonial functions. Also elected by the residents is a city marshal who acts as chief of police. In addition to police service, the city provides residents with a water/sewer system, trash pickup, planning and zoning services, and public works.
Arcadia Municipal Airport is a public-use airport located 1 mile (1.6 km) southeast of the central business district. The City of Arcadia operates the day-to-day operations of the airport. The airport has a deep history of aviation, with the old Carlstrom and Dorr training fields in DeSoto County. It is leading the state in low fuel prices and has a fly-in and camp facility called Aviation City. Arcadia Municipal Airport hosts an annual Aviation Day event in March. The event consists of a static display of aircraft, biplane rides, helicopter rides, and a skydiving demonstration, but bigger plans are in the works.
Arcadia is located on the Peace River, the major tributary of the Charlotte Harbor estuary. The river offers fine canoeing, shark-tooth hunting, and natural habitats. Tours, recreational accessories, and accommodations are readily available.
Arcadia hosts DeSoto County's annual fair usually in the month of January. While traditional aspects of a fair or carnival are provided, the event also presents livestock shows consisting of swine and cattle, which are presented by the local FFA and 4-H.
Arcadia is also the home of three rodeos. These events, which are managed by the local rodeo association, occur during the month of March, the Fourth of July holiday, and in the fall. From the profits of these events many local charities, college scholarships and causes receive funding.
Arcadia is one of the largest groupings of antique dealers in the state, all located conveniently in the downtown area. The local dealers' association sponsors a "4th Saturday Antique Fair" each month from 8 am to 3 pm, bringing an additional 60 to 120 independent dealers in for the event.
Arcadia has numerous parades throughout the year—a Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade, a March rodeo parade, a Cinco de Mayo parade, an Independence Day parade, an October Homecoming parade, a Veterans Day parade, and a Christmas parade.
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Arcadia, Florida
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| City of Arcadia | |
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Seal
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Location of Arcadia in DeSoto County, Florida....
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| Coordinates: 27°12′54″N 81°51′32″W / 27.215°N 81.859°W | |
| Country | United States of America |
| State | Florida |
| County | DeSoto |
| Incorporated | 1886 |
| Named after | Arcadia Albritton |
| Government
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| • Type | Mayor-Council |
| • Mayor | Robert W. Heine Jr. |
| • Deputy Mayor | Keith Keene |
| • Council Members | Mike Hall, Amber Collins, and Judy Wertz-Strickland |
| • City Administrator | Terry Stewart |
| • City Clerk | Penny Delaney |
| Area | |
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• Total
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4.43 sq mi (11.48 km2) |
| • Land | 4.43 sq mi (11.47 km2) |
| • Water | 0.0077 sq mi (0.02 km2) |
| Elevation
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60 ft (18 m) |
| Population
(2020)
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• Total
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7,420 |
| • Density | 1,675.7/sq mi (647.01/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (EST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP codes |
34265, 34266, 34269
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| Area code | 863 |
| FIPS code | 12-01750 |
| Website | www |
Arcadia is a city and county seat of DeSoto County, Florida, United States. Arcadia's Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its population was 7,420 as of the 2020 census, down from 7,637 at the 2010 census. It is the principal city of the Arcadia, Florida Micropolitan Statistical Area.
The area has a history of ranching and citrus growing. Citrus greening hurt the area's citrus industry.
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This section needs additional citations for verification. (January 2015)
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According to The Atlas of Florida, "The Rev. James Madison ("Boss") Hendry (1839–1922) named the town in honor of Arcadia Albritton (1861–1932), a daughter of Thomas H. and Fannie (Waldron) Albritton, pioneer settlers. Arcadia had baked him a cake for his birthday, and he appreciated it so much that he named the city after her."[2]
In 1886, transportation improved in Arcadia when the Florida Southern Railway (later the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad) was built through Arcadia on its way from Bartow to Punta Gorda. The railway caused Arcadia to grow significantly, which led to it becoming incorporated a year later.[3] A second railroad line, the Charlotte Harbor and Northern Railway (later the Seaboard Air Line Railroad), was built through Arcadia from 1907 to 1910 on its way from Mulberry to Boca Grande. Both lines have since been consolidated into a single line by CSX with the Seaboard line surviving north of Arcadia and the Atlantic Coast Line surviving to the south. Arcadia was also served by the short-lived East and West Coast Railway, which connected Arcadia with Bradenton from 1915 to 1934.[4]
During the late 19th century Arcadia was the county seat of what would become many counties. In 1921, legislation enacted called for Arcadia to remain the county seat of DeSoto County and resulted in the creation of the present-day counties of Charlotte, Hardee, Glades and Highlands. Prior to this breakup, Arcadia's population had grown considerably, with over 1,000 permanent residents and 3,000 sq mi (7,800 km2) for ranching.
On Thanksgiving Day in 1905, the town was destroyed by a fire that originated from a midtown livery stable. The fire was exacerbated because the town did not have a working water system or fire department. The estimated monetary damage was $250,000, but no loss of life occurred. Much of the business district was not spared. The town recovered only years later.
Oak Street is the "main street" in Arcadia. The downtown is far more elaborate than neighboring counties' downtown areas, as Arcadia is older and was their county seat prior to the formation of their present counties. Arcadia is also home to many early 20th-century homes, houses of worship, and several historic public buildings.
From 1917 to 1922, Arcadia was the home of Carlstrom Field, a grass airfield of the U.S. Army Air Service named for deceased aviation pioneer Victor Carlstrom. Carlstrom Field was used for pilot training both during and after World War I. In May 1941, the site again became an airfield for military primary flight training, operated by the Embry–Riddle Aeronautical Institute (now Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University). Carlstrom Field, one of several satellite fields in the Fort Myers area, also trained pilots for the Royal Air Force until its closing in 1945. 23 RAF cadets that died during training are commemorated in Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Arcadia's historic buildings include the Johnson-Smith House, William Oswell Ralls House, and Micajah T. Singleton House. Also, around 3,400 acres, which includes the downtown area, are part of the Arcadia Historic District.
After three Arcadia children, the Ray brothers, were diagnosed with HIV in 1986, school officials refused to let them attend school. The Ray family won a $1.1 million judgement against the county school system, but were forced to leave Arcadia after their home was burned down in 1987, in what has been described as "almost certainly a case of arson."[5]
In 2004, Arcadia was heavily damaged by Hurricane Charley, during which the eye went over the city, with winds measured up to 109 mph (49 m/s) at 5:27 pm. The winds were suspected to be stronger outside the city, but cannot be proven due to the lack of equipment outside the city. The city's only shelter, the Turner Agri Civic Center, was a shelter made to withstand winds over 100 mph (45 m/s), but it collapsed during the storm. Everyone evacuated into the hallways and the kitchen of the Turner Center prior to the collapse.[6] The people in the Turner Agri Civic Center were evacuated to DeSoto High School, but soon, part of its roof collapsed. In the center of the town, the Old Opera House's roof was peeled off, causing severe water damage. The hurricane severely damaged downtown, especially businesses on Oak Street and Polk Street. Eventually, the Red Cross shelter was forced to evacuate due to the collapsing of the building. The city water tower crumpled along Florida State Road 70 and was never replaced after the hurricane. The city's only hospital was heavily damaged, with 35 windows shattering. Part of the roof peeled back, which exposed equipment and patients to the wind-driven rain. This caused an estimated $2.3 million in damages to the hospital.[7] Hurricane Charley caused 3,600 homes to be destroyed or heavily damaged, and displaced 16,000 people.[8] The exact amount of damage is not known, but it was ln the millions of dollars. Two people died in DeSoto County during the storm, and 150 people were injured. Many residents of the town left and never came back.[9]
After Hurricane Charley, the people in DeSoto High School were taken to the middle school nearby, where at least 75 people spent the night in the middle school's gymnasium.[10] The hurricane caused downtown to be heavily damaged. The storm caused 90% of homes in DeSoto County to be damaged and 60% to be uninhabitable or destroyed. The National Guard was deployed to the city and started the cleanup process and enforced a strict curfew in the city. The people of Arcadia came together and started helping each other after the storm, from feeding people to rebuilding. Although during the rebuilding process, the first wave of the Great Recession began, the people of Arcadia were able to rebuild their homes and bring new homes to the city. Downtown Arcadia was rebuilt, but some parts of the county are still damaged from Hurricane Charley. About 12 years were needed to rebuild, but parts of the city and county are still damaged from it.
In 2017, Hurricane Irma went over the city as a category 1 hurricane. It did not cause a huge amount of damage to the city. Some of the downtown area was damaged, with the Oak Park Inn taking considerable damage, and was not able to open for 4 months after the storm. Parts of DeSoto County were flooded, especially communities on the Peace River. The storm dropped 10-15 in of rain near Morgan Park on the Peace River. The river and its tributaries flooded roadways, homes, and parks. The damage extent is unknown.[11]
In March 2020, Arcadia declared a local state of emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.[12] DeSoto county has had 10,174 cases of COVID-19.
On September 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian Made Landfall near Cayo Costa. The Hurricane struck as a strong Category 4 Hurricane, near Category 5 strength. The storm would go over the city of Arcadia as a Category 3 Hurricane. The Hurricane would cause major flooding along the Peace River, flooding homes and roads near or on the river. SR-72 collapsed, and buildings and homes in Arcadia would be damaged.
Arcadia is located slightly northwest of the center of DeSoto County at
27°12′54″N 81°51′32″W / 27.215°N 81.859°W (27.2176, –81.8599). The Peace River flows past the west side of the city on its way southwest to tidewater at Punta Gorda. Nearby Southeast Arcadia occupies a larger section of land, hosting a nearly equal, yet more dispersed population. Most of Arcadia is more than 40 feet (12 m) above sea level and portions of Arcadia near the center of the city are as high as 65 feet (20 m) above sea level, giving Arcadia one of the highest elevations for a city in Florida.
U.S. Route 17 passes through the center of Arcadia, leading north 50 miles (80 km) to Bartow and southwest 26 miles (42 km) to its terminus at Punta Gorda. Florida State Road 70 crosses US 17 in the center of Arcadia and leads east 64 miles (103 km) to Okeechobee and west-northwest 48 miles (77 km) to South Bradenton. Via SR 72, which splits from SR 70 just west of Arcadia, it is 44 miles (71 km) west to South Sarasota.
According to the United States Census Bureau, Arcadia has a total area of 4.1 square miles (10.6 km2), of which 0.01 square miles (0.02 km2), or 0.15%, is covered by water.
According to the Köppen climate classification, Arcadia has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa/Cwa), with hot, humid summers and warm, drier winters.
| Climate data for Arcadia, Florida, 1991–2020 normals, extremes 1899–2021 | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Record high °F (°C) | 88 (31) |
92 (33) |
95 (35) |
98 (37) |
103 (39) |
104 (40) |
101 (38) |
101 (38) |
98 (37) |
98 (37) |
93 (34) |
89 (32) |
104 (40) |
| Mean maximum °F (°C) | 83.7 (28.7) |
85.0 (29.4) |
87.7 (30.9) |
91.3 (32.9) |
94.4 (34.7) |
95.5 (35.3) |
95.3 (35.2) |
95.2 (35.1) |
93.9 (34.4) |
90.9 (32.7) |
87.1 (30.6) |
84.5 (29.2) |
96.6 (35.9) |
| Mean daily maximum °F (°C) | 73.5 (23.1) |
76.1 (24.5) |
80.0 (26.7) |
84.2 (29.0) |
89.1 (31.7) |
90.7 (32.6) |
91.4 (33.0) |
91.6 (33.1) |
89.9 (32.2) |
85.6 (29.8) |
79.5 (26.4) |
75.4 (24.1) |
83.9 (28.8) |
| Daily mean °F (°C) | 60.3 (15.7) |
63.1 (17.3) |
66.5 (19.2) |
71.1 (21.7) |
76.4 (24.7) |
80.0 (26.7) |
81.3 (27.4) |
81.6 (27.6) |
80.1 (26.7) |
74.8 (23.8) |
67.6 (19.8) |
63.1 (17.3) |
72.2 (22.3) |
| Mean daily minimum °F (°C) | 47.1 (8.4) |
50.1 (10.1) |
53.1 (11.7) |
58.0 (14.4) |
63.8 (17.7) |
69.4 (20.8) |
71.2 (21.8) |
71.6 (22.0) |
70.4 (21.3) |
64.0 (17.8) |
55.7 (13.2) |
50.8 (10.4) |
60.4 (15.8) |
| Mean minimum °F (°C) | 30.4 (−0.9) |
33.6 (0.9) |
37.6 (3.1) |
44.7 (7.1) |
53.9 (12.2) |
65.4 (18.6) |
68.7 (20.4) |
68.8 (20.4) |
65.8 (18.8) |
51.2 (10.7) |
41.2 (5.1) |
34.9 (1.6) |
28.4 (−2.0) |
| Record low °F (°C) | 18 (−8) |
21 (−6) |
26 (−3) |
32 (0) |
39 (4) |
52 (11) |
61 (16) |
60 (16) |
55 (13) |
38 (3) |
23 (−5) |
18 (−8) |
18 (−8) |
| Average precipitation inches (mm) | 2.31 (59) |
2.00 (51) |
2.44 (62) |
2.72 (69) |
3.78 (96) |
9.55 (243) |
8.19 (208) |
8.93 (227) |
7.77 (197) |
2.58 (66) |
1.83 (46) |
1.82 (46) |
53.92 (1,370) |
| Average precipitation days (≥ 0.01 in) | 5.3 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 5.1 | 6.4 | 14.1 | 15.2 | 15.9 | 12.6 | 6.3 | 4.4 | 5.1 | 100.1 |
| Source 1: NOAA[13] | |||||||||||||
| Source 2: XMACIS2[14] | |||||||||||||
| Census | Pop. | Note | %± |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1900 | 799 | — | |
| 1910 | 1,736 | 117.3% | |
| 1920 | 3,479 | 100.4% | |
| 1930 | 4,082 | 17.3% | |
| 1940 | 4,055 | −0.7% | |
| 1950 | 4,764 | 17.5% | |
| 1960 | 5,889 | 23.6% | |
| 1970 | 5,658 | −3.9% | |
| 1980 | 6,002 | 6.1% | |
| 1990 | 6,488 | 8.1% | |
| 2000 | 6,604 | 1.8% | |
| 2010 | 7,637 | 15.6% | |
| 2020 | 7,420 | −2.8% | |
| U.S. Decennial Census[15] | |||
| Race | Pop 2010[16] | Pop 2020[17] | % 2010 | % 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White (NH) | 3,062 | 2,905 | 40.09% | 39.15% |
| Black or African American (NH) | 1,876 | 1,825 | 24.56% | 24.60% |
| Native American or Alaska Native (NH) | 10 | 12 | 0.13% | 0.16% |
| Asian (NH) | 51 | 67 | 0.67% | 0.90% |
| Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian (NH) | 0 | 0 | 0.00% | 0.00% |
| Some other race (NH) | 8 | 23 | 0.10% | 0.31% |
| Two or more races/Multiracial (NH) | 96 | 232 | 1.26% | 3.13% |
| Hispanic or Latino (any race) | 2,534 | 2,356 | 33.18% | 31.75% |
| Total | 7,637 | 7,420 |
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 7,420 people, 2,953 households, and 1,755 families residing in the city.[18]
In 2020, about 5.1% of the population were under 5 years old, 26.2% were under 18, and 13.7% were 65 and over; 49.9% of the population were female.[19]
In 2020, 256 veterans were living in the city and 14.7% of the population were foreign-born. About 69.5% of the households had a computer and 58.0% had a broadband internet subscription. Around 80.9% of the population 25 and older were high-school graduates and 15.2% of that same population had a bachelor's degree or higher. Around 7.4% of the population under 65 had a disability and 17.3% of that same population did not have health insurance.[19]
In 2020, the median household income was $34,003 and the per capita income was $18,376; 30.2% of the population lived below the poverty threshold.[19]
As of the 2010 United States census, there were 7,637 people, 2,460 households, and 1,664 families residing in the city.[20]
The City of Arcadia was created by an act of the Florida Legislature in 1886. Currently, the city is governed by a mayor-council form of government, with five council members elected at large to four-year terms of office, who in turn appoint a city manager to run the daily operation of the city. The council annually chooses a mayor and deputy mayor, who serve in the capacity of chairman of meetings and at ceremonial functions. Also elected by the residents is a city marshal who acts as chief of police. In addition to police service, the city provides residents with a water/sewer system, trash pickup, planning and zoning services, and public works.
Arcadia Municipal Airport is a public-use airport located 1 mile (1.6 km) southeast of the central business district. The City of Arcadia operates the day-to-day operations of the airport. The airport has a deep history of aviation, with the old Carlstrom and Dorr training fields in DeSoto County. It is leading the state in low fuel prices and has a fly-in and camp facility called Aviation City. Arcadia Municipal Airport hosts an annual Aviation Day event in March. The event consists of a static display of aircraft, biplane rides, helicopter rides, and a skydiving demonstration, but bigger plans are in the works.
Arcadia is located on the Peace River, the major tributary of the Charlotte Harbor estuary. The river offers fine canoeing, shark-tooth hunting, and natural habitats. Tours, recreational accessories, and accommodations are readily available.
Arcadia hosts DeSoto County's annual fair usually in the month of January. While traditional aspects of a fair or carnival are provided, the event also presents livestock shows consisting of swine and cattle, which are presented by the local FFA and 4-H.
Arcadia is also the home of three rodeos. These events, which are managed by the local rodeo association, occur during the month of March, the Fourth of July holiday, and in the fall. From the profits of these events many local charities, college scholarships and causes receive funding.
Arcadia is one of the largest groupings of antique dealers in the state, all located conveniently in the downtown area. The local dealers' association sponsors a "4th Saturday Antique Fair" each month from 8 am to 3 pm, bringing an additional 60 to 120 independent dealers in for the event.
Arcadia has numerous parades throughout the year—a Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade, a March rodeo parade, a Cinco de Mayo parade, an Independence Day parade, an October Homecoming parade, a Veterans Day parade, and a Christmas parade.
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