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Community Description
Short Description: Palatka, the “Gem City of the St. Johns River,” the county seat of Putnam County, on the St. Johns River is 45 miles south of Jacksonville. The name derives from the Seminole word "pilotaikita," meaning, "ferry," "ford" or "crossing. The first contraction of the Indian word used as the city's name was spelled "Pilatka," but postal authorities complained that this was too easily confused with Picolata, further down the river, and so the "i" was changed to an "a". Other early names include Buena Vista, Gray's Place, Bush Post and Fort Shannon.
Palatka established in 1821 as a trading post was a popular tourist destination in the late 19th century, when steamboats brought winter visitors to the area. The town's riverfront at the foot of Main Street was often crowded with steamers hauling Florida's fruit and cattle.
Babe Ruth was an instructor for a brief time at a baseball training school here, and Pop Lloyd, the baseball player was from Palatka.
Local attractions include the Florida Trail, Ravine Gardens State Park
Community events include the Blue Crab festival in May, a Blueberry Festival in June and the "Mug Race”.
Nearby communities include East Palatka (3.5 miles), Hastings (10 miles), Pomona Park (11 miles), Welaka (11.5 miles), Interlachen (17 miles), Crescent City (17.5 miles), Green Cove Springs (24 miles) and Penney Farms (25.5 miles).
Population: 11,154
Year of Incorporation: 1853
Location: North Central Florida
Median Home Price: $111,500
Tax Rate: 8.65
Taxes Levied (per capita): $187.33
Total Area: 6.86 square miles
City Hall: City of Palatka 201 N Second St, Palatka, FL 32177 386.329.0100; 386.329.0106 Email Contact
Chamber of Commerce: Putnam County Chamber 1100 Reid Street, PO Box 550 Palatka, FL 32178-0550 386.328.1503; 386.328.7076 Fax Email Contact
201 North Second St, Palatka, FL 32177
Library: Headquarters Palatka Library (Putnam County Library System) 601 College Rd, Palatka, FL 32177-3873 386.329.0126; 386.329.1240 Fax Email Contact
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Palatka Inquiry:
| Q. | I am trying to get information about the availability of docking space for the weekend of the Blue Crab Festival in Palatka May 2007. Is the Boathouse Marina still in operation? How can I contact someone about docking availability? Thank you for your assistance in this matter. | | A. | The Boathouse Marina located in Palatka, between markers 1 and 2 has recently changed ownership and an extensive remodeling/renovation program is underway. Included in this renovation are plans for new fuel service, and the design and permitting process have begun. In addition, the renovation will include lighted docks, new electrical (including 50amp) and water service, upgraded restroom and shower facilities. The work is to be completed during the next six months. Call them directly for updates at: 386.328.2944.
| | Q. | Thanks Florida Team, I've booked a Bed and Breakfast stay thanks to you (-: I'm really excited about it! Another question please, are the movie date and times posted? I'm particularly looking for the date and time for 29 Reasons to Run. Thanks, Cheryl | | A. | According to the schedule of the Gem City Film Festival, following a 10 minutes intermission, "29 Reasons To Run", directed by Damon O'steen, running 1 hour and 39 minutes, begins at 12:00 Noon. The Independent Film Festival portion is being held Saturday, February 18 at the Campbell Building of the Ravine Gardens State Park. To be absolutely certain, you might wish to confirm this with the Ravine Gardens at 386.329.3721. Enjoy and feel free to express your FloridaView pleasure to anyone who will speak to you, today, tomorrow, next Saturday or yesterday! Especially event coordinators and the B&B proprietor. While we have several B&B listing partners, none in the immediate Palatka vicinity.
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