Zephyrhills History
Dade City: Heritage, Hospitality, and Economic Momentum
Dade City, the county seat of Pasco County, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern business opportunity. Known for its picturesque downtown, preserved architecture, and vibrant community culture, Dade City has long served as the civic and cultural heart of East Pasco.
Established in the 1880s as a stop along the railroad line, Dade City quickly became a center for commerce and agriculture—especially citrus and cattle. The city’s beautifully restored courthouse square remains a hub for government, law, and business services, surrounded by boutique shops, restaurants, and professional offices.
In recent decades, Dade City has emphasized historic preservation, tourism, and downtown revitalization. Events like the Kumquat Festival draw tens of thousands each year, showcasing local culture and supporting small businesses. A growing number of entrepreneurs are investing in the area, drawn by its authenticity, affordability, and community-focused leadership.
Strategically located near U.S. 301 and SR 52, Dade City provides regional access for logistics, small-scale manufacturing, and agriculture-based businesses. Its proximity to educational institutions, including Saint Leo University, fosters opportunities for workforce collaboration and talent development.
With its proud legacy and forward-looking leadership, Dade City continues to grow as a welcoming, walkable city that balances quality of life with economic ambition.
San Antonio: A Small Town with Deep Roots and Strategic Potential
Founded in 1882 by Judge Edmund Dunne as a Catholic colony, San Antonio is one of the oldest incorporated communities in Pasco County. Located in the scenic highlands of East Pasco, this quaint city retains its original charm, with quiet neighborhoods, a walkable downtown, and a strong commitment to preserving its rural identity.
San Antonio’s early economy centered around citrus, cattle, and local craftsmanship. Its central square and historical buildings remain iconic features that draw both visitors and residents seeking a peaceful lifestyle. The city’s proximity to major roadways and larger urban centers makes it a strategic location for small businesses and remote workers who value serenity without sacrificing accessibility.
Though modest in size, San Antonio benefits from being adjacent to St. Leo University and within minutes of Dade City and Zephyrhills. The city maintains a close-knit community spirit while engaging in thoughtful planning to support future development that aligns with its historic character and sustainable land use.
As East Pasco continues to grow, San Antonio offers a unique opportunity for businesses and residents looking to invest in a place where history, culture, and community come together.
St. Leo: Academic Excellence and Economic Influence
Nestled among the rolling hills of East Pasco, the Town of St. Leo is best known as the home of Saint Leo University, one of the oldest and most respected private Catholic universities in Florida. Established in 1889, the university remains the town’s economic and cultural centerpiece, drawing students, faculty, and visitors from across the nation and the globe.
The town itself was incorporated in 1891 and has since grown into a quiet, residential enclave with a strong emphasis on education, faith, and service. While small in population, St. Leo has outsized influence due to its institutional partnerships, workforce training programs, and economic contributions through higher education.
With a focus on technology, distance learning, and leadership development, Saint Leo University continues to attract investment and academic partnerships that enhance the regional workforce pipeline. The town also benefits from its central location, scenic beauty, and access to regional transportation routes.
St. Leo’s blend of tradition and innovation creates a unique environment for those seeking academic collaboration, community engagement, and long-term investment in education-based economic development.
Zephyrhills: A Legacy of Growth, A Future of Opportunity
Nestled in the scenic rolling hills and citrus groves of Central Florida, Zephyrhills is strategically located in the southeastern corner of Pasco County—approximately 45 minutes from Tampa, 35 minutes from Lakeland, and just 90 minutes from Orlando’s globally renowned attractions. This central position, paired with accessible highways and proximity to major metropolitan markets, makes Zephyrhills a prime location for business development and economic investment.
The city’s roots in commerce date back to the late 1800s, when the area—originally known as Abbott—emerged as a transportation and shipping hub following the arrival of the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad. Initially driven by industries such as turpentine, lumber, and agriculture, Zephyrhills’ early economy evolved as land was repurposed for pasture and citrus groves—sectors that continue to contribute to the region’s agricultural base today.
A transformative milestone in Zephyrhills' development came in 1910, when Captain H.B. Jeffries founded a veterans' colony, inspired by the region’s fertile land, abundant fresh water, and healthful climate. The community was renamed Zephyrhills and officially incorporated in 1914. This foundational investment in quality of life continues to drive population and economic growth today.
The mid-20th century marked a shift toward tourism and residential development. The area’s warm climate, affordability, and welcoming atmosphere drew retirees and seasonal residents, leading to rapid expansion in housing, RV parks, and local services. In 1961, Zephyrhills gained national attention when Don Robinson established the Zephyrhills Water Corporation, leveraging the area’s clean natural springs to bottle and distribute what became one of the most recognized water brands in the country. Today, Zephyrhills is proudly known as “The City of Pure Water”—a unique branding asset for the local economy.
Zephyrhills is also home to one of Pasco County’s key transportation assets: the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport. This general aviation airport serves as a major hub for recreational skydiving and aviation events, drawing visitors and competitors from around the world and fueling the local hospitality and retail sectors.
Over the past several decades, Zephyrhills has experienced sustained residential and commercial growth. The 1970s and 1980s introduced shopping centers, restaurants, and service providers, while the 1990s and 2000s brought planned residential communities to meet growing demand. Today, Zephyrhills continues to expand its infrastructure to support diversified economic development—from logistics and light manufacturing to tourism, healthcare, and retail.
The city boasts a strong civic infrastructure, with numerous service organizations and community groups, and an educational system that supports workforce development. Zephyrhills’ municipal leadership remains focused on enhancing quality of life, fostering strategic partnerships, and preparing for future economic opportunity.
With its rich history, prime location, and ongoing investment in infrastructure and quality of life, Zephyrhills stands as a dynamic and welcoming environment for businesses, investors, and residents alike. As the city looks toward the future, it is poised to remain a catalyst for economic growth in East Pasco County and beyond.