Clermont

For centuries, people have been entranced by Clermont's spectacular beauty. Named after picturesque Clermont-Ferrand, France, the birthplace of an early settler, Clermont is often called Gem of the Hills, referring to the area's sparkling lakes, rolling hills, and an early citrus brand. Clermont's history, like the countryside, includes many pinnacles and valleys--from millions made in land investments and citrus to devastating freezes and economic depression that brought the city to bankruptcy. It is an exotic history filled with adventure; steamboats; railways; freak weather phenomena; iconic tourist attractions; unparalleled golf, fishing, and hunting venues; visionary leaders; legendary athletes; a world-class library overlooking the city; and a historic village beside Lake Minneola. Coming off its 125th anniversary, Clermont flourishes as Lake County's largest city.

Doris Bloodsworth is a Pulitzer-nominated writer who moved to south Lake County with her family in 1959. She is an award-winning journalist and former reporter for the Wall Street Journal and Orlando Sentinel. She writes for Bloomberg News and is president of Crosswords Communications Company. As a child, she enjoyed going to Clermont's Jaycee Beach and Cooper Memorial Library. These vintage photographs were mined from many sources, including local and state archives and private collections.