City history
From its origins as a 19th-century military outpost to its rise as a global tourism destination, explore the rich timeline of Fort Lauderdale.
Chapter one
Earliest documented name
"Named for Colonel William Lauderdale"
The earliest documented name for this location is the military fort established in 1838 by the United States Army during the Second Seminole War.
Military fortification
The name was bestowed in honor of Colonel William Lauderdale, a prominent officer serving in the United States Army during the mid-19th century.
Pioneer settlement
During this era, the area was primarily known by the settlement surrounding the trading post established by pioneer Frank Stranahan on the New River.
Chapter two
The United States moved away from local solar time and adopted standardized time zones to facilitate more efficient travel and communication.
The Uniform Time Act was passed to establish a consistent schedule for daylight saving time, reducing confusion caused by varying local practices.
Chapter three
A military fortification was constructed by United States troops to serve as a strategic outpost during the Second Seminole War.
Pioneer Frank Stranahan established the first permanent civilian trading post on the New River, which served as the foundation for growth.
The city officially achieved municipal status through incorporation, allowing for the establishment of a formal local government and infrastructure.
Following World War II, the region experienced a significant economic shift, transitioning into a major hub for international tourism.