Avon Park, Administrative center in Highlands County, Florida, US
Avon Park is a town in Highlands County, Florida, situated on a karst landscape dotted with lakes throughout the area. The terrain creates a natural backdrop for residential neighborhoods and outdoor recreation opportunities scattered across the community.
The first white settlement arrived in 1884 through Oliver Martin Crosby's efforts, followed by Lake Forest established in 1886 by English settlers. These early foundations shaped the community's subsequent growth and development.
The city operates under a council-manager government system, encouraging community participation through various boards and municipal commissions.
Getting around town is easier with a car due to its spread-out layout across the karst terrain and scattered lakes. Local services handle daily needs, though the county sheriff provides law enforcement rather than a dedicated city police force.
In the 1950s, the US Army Chemical Corps conducted military experiments here involving the release of mosquitoes for biological research. This unusual chapter in the area's past remains largely forgotten by most visitors today.
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