Miami's Founding: July 28, 1896 – Julia Tuttle & Henry Flagler

Miami is the only major U.S. city founded by a woman. Julia Tuttle (1849–1898), a Cleveland widow, purchased 640 acres on the Miami River in 1891, envisioning a tropical gateway.

The Flagler Connection

Tuttle persuaded railroad tycoon Henry Flagler to extend his Florida East Coast Railway south from Palm Beach. Legend says she sent him fresh orange blossoms after a devastating 1894–95 freeze destroyed northern citrus—proving Miami's frost-free advantage.

Incorporation Day

• July 28, 1896: 368 male voters (including Black Bahamians) incorporated the City of Miami
• First mayor: John B. Reilly
• Flagler's Royal Palm Hotel opened 1897—catalyzing tourism
• Tuttle's legacy: "Mother of Miami"; buried in City Cemetery; statue at Bayfront Park (2010)

Pre-Founding Context

• Tequesta inhabited area 2,000+ years (Miami Circle site)
• Spanish mission (1567), Seminole Wars (1830s–50s), Fort Dallas (1836)
• Tuttle's vision + Flagler's rail = instant city

From zero to 5,000 residents in 1900; 2.7M metro today. All from a widow's citrus-scented letter and a railroad baron's gamble.