To begin the Redland Riot Tour on US1 in Cutler Ridge, take the Turnpike south, exit at Caribbean Blvd or SW 211 St, then West to US1. Turn left on US1. 1. US1 South to 224 St, West to Avenue, South to Cauley Square. 2. West to 124 Av, North to 216 St, then West to 127 Av to Burr’s Berry Farm. 3. West to 157 Av, South to 232 St to Anderson's Corner. 4. South to 248 St, West to 160 Av to Knaus Berry Farm. 5. West to 187 Av to Fruit and Spice Park. 6. South to 264 St to Pioneer Guild Hall. 7. South to 280 St, East to 182 Av to R.F. Orchids. 8. South on 187 Av to 344 St, West to 192 Av to Robert Is Here. 9. East to Krome, North to 8th Street to Florida Pioneer Museum. 10. North on 177 Av, right on S. Flagler, go two blocks to Redland Hotel.

Redland Riot Tour © 2005 by Robert A. Burr • www.redlandriot.com The pioneer era of South Florida was a time of legends and great Sometimes, we'll do the quick version -- head directly for Burr's for adventurers. Henry Flagler's Florida East Coast Railroad reached Miami strawberries and jam, to Knaus for the sticky buns and pineapple in 1896, signaling a boom era that attracted thousands of families. upside-down cake and to Robert Is Here for those exotic fruits, Enticed by rumors and legends of life in paradise, of balmy indispensible condiments and special sauces that only Robert offers. winters that cured a dozen ailments, of a land where an abundance of Another nice variation is to begin at Tiffany’s Restaurant for exotic, delicious fruit was said to fall from trees only to rot on the brunch on Saturday morning, then work your way north to finish the ground, a trickle of bold adventurers arrived before 1900. Before the tour browsing around the quaint little shops at Cauley Square. boom era ended with the great depression in 1929, a steady stream of The Redland Riot tour can be taken at any time, by any number families, entrepreneurs and tourists came south to experience sub- of people. The best choice may be Saturdays, between January and tropical Dade County. April, but many of the fruit stands are open all year with varying As rural, family-based agricultural enterprises were eventually seasonal specialties. Trips on weekdays may find lesser crowds and squeezed out by expanding residential and commercial districts, much shorter lines for the milkshakes and baked goods. of the original charm and rustic flavor of the area has faded. Still, if Every time we tour the Redlands, we try to visit a place that’s new we take the time to look a bit closer, there are a number of lingering to us. We’ve been going to Coral Castle since we were kids, and a trip reminders of our pioneer era. The Redland Riot tour emphasizes a few to the Everglades Alligator Farm is a great educational experience. remaining historical destinations and encourages us to enjoy the Here are a few more notable places to see and stop along the way. simple pleasures of the seasonal bounty while helping us to re- The Florida State Farmers Market, with a large variety of fresh discover the rural charm of our recent past. produce, offers samples of local fruits and vegetables just behind the As the winter season descends on South Florida, as the restaurant, so plan to visit for shopping and a family meal. strawberries begin to ripen and the fruit stands open to the public, we The Gold Coast Railroad Museum, at the site of the historic always enjoy a drive through the countryside — or what's left of it — Richmond Naval Air station (often referred to as the “blimp base”) is to stock up on goodies and remind ourselves of our rustic heritage. not just for train buffs. The Redland Market Village, along US1 at SW After many seasons traveling through the area often informally 244th Street is a large collection of fruit stands and a food court. called "the Redlands" we have jotted down a few notes here to help Fruteria Los Girasoles is a small stand with excellent produce, those that might have an interest in the same. including fresh chilled coconut juice, right out of the nut. The There are literally hundreds of fruit stands and farms, orchid selection of fresh hot chili peppers is the best around, plus tomatitos, houses, historical buildings and great places to dine or just act like a oranges and other Mexican specialties. tourist in South Florida. The Redland Riot tour touches on a few of Notable homes include the Kosel Homestead on SW 256 St, the our favorites which can be visited briefly all in one day — or visited Walton Home on SW 187th Ave, the Lingren House on SW 137th time and again for more in-depth adventures. Avenue, the Cooper Residence on SW 248th Street, the McMinn- Cauley Square, for example, could easily be an all-day destination. Horne House on NE 12th Street in Homestead, the Merrit House The dozens of little shops, almost hidden within a hardwood across the street from the Fruit and Spice Park and the Palm Lodge on hammock just off the beaten path, could keep our attention for many SW 296th Street. hours. Likewise, visits to the Fruit and Spice Park or the Antique shops in historic Homestead are destinations worthy of greater exploration than a six hour tour might permit.

2 3 Cauley Square 1 SW 224th Street and US1, Miami, FL

When Flagler’s railroad reached Goulds in 1903, William Cauley could easily pack his tomatoes and ship them north on a daily basis. This millionaire farmer and businessman developed a series of warehouses and offices, a bar and grill and residences within a ten acre plot along side the railroad tracks. Many of the small wooden homes still standing were hand built by pioneers of South Dade in the early 1900’s. Today, they are converted into small shops full of antiques, crafts and specialty items, plus galleries and eateries as well. The Tea Room is a perennial favorite. Enjoy lunch here with friends in a delightful atmosphere and treat yourself to great soups, hearty specialties of the house and superb desserts. The main building, with Unicorn Creations and the Lighthouse Antiques and Gift Emporium, is surrounded by small garden shops. Ruby’s Place is a full service beauty salon; local crafters and their the Tea Room at (1) Cauley Square is a popular destination for lunch products are featured at O’Sew Crafty; Shadow Hawk Creations offers and afternoon tea set amongst lush landscaping in a shady hammock native American and Western accessories, just to name a few. Cauley Square features live music on the weekends, as well as pony and carriage rides. Park your car in a shady spot and walk around. You’ll be delighted with the rustic setting and friendly atmosphere as an appropriate start to your tour down south.

Cauley Square features fountains and open courtyard with flamingoes

4 5 Burr’s Berry Farm 2 12741 SW 216th St, Miami, FL

The Burr family came to Dade county just after the railroad reached the newly formed city of Miami in 1896. Richard Hudson Burr and eldest son R.H. Burr, jr. settled in Little River. Son Edward DeVere Burr and family settled in Arch Creek, while youngest son Raymond Young Burr came to Goulds. Along with another pioneer clan, the Bush family, the Burrs once operated a packing house on Old Dixie Highway, shipping fruit and vegetables to cold northern cities throughout the winters. Charles Young Burr was born on this 45 acre property in 1922. A recipient of the Purple Heart and Bronze Star from service in WWII, Charles Burr will forever be known in these parts as the Strawberry King, a fitting moniker for a man who’s passion was the production of the best strawberries in South Florida. He planted his first crop of berries in 1960 and the rest, as they say, is history. Charlie enjoyed flying his piper cub around the redlands and the old landing strip at the Burr farm is still found on many maps and charts of the area. He passed away in 2001, but the legacy of the Strawberry King lives on as customers eagerly await the opening of the stand soon after Christmas each year. Even as expanding residential areas have surrounded and engulfed the rural property over the years, the Burr farm remains largely unchanged since SW 127th Avenue became known as Burr Road. Uncle Charlie could often be found delivering fresh berries to the Publix grocery store in Coral Gables, a great convenience for us city dwellers, but nothing compares to a trip down south to say hello in person and enjoy the best of the best strawberries in South Dade. Under the direction of Charles’ grandson Jeffrey Miller, this very popular berry farm and fruit stand still dispenses thousands of quarts of berries and a plethora of milkshakes to locals and tourists each season. Aunt Mary Idena still produces her outstanding homemade jellies and jams, from mulberry and guava (a century-old family favorite) to seedless strawberry jam. You’ll also find a selection of fresh tomatoes, green beans and other seasonal specialties at the stand.

6 7 Anderson’s Corner 3 15700 SW 232nd Steet, Miami, FL

The original setlement south of Cutler, Anderson's Corner is now closed, but the building still remains in nearly the original condition. The owners intend to re-open this historical landmark, so keep an eye out for progress. The years between 1910 and 1920 saw Dade County's population quadruple in size. The landscape was quickly evolving from deserted wetland swamps to rows of fields as rudimentary roads and auspicious homesteaders found their way south. Draining the lowlands provided ample opportunities for agricultural endeavors and it was not long before extensive development was underway. Because transportation between disparate settlements throughout the county was difficult, general stores provided a level of convenience to residents in outlaying areas, including many farmers. Anderson’s Corner is the last remaining general store from the pioneer Anderson's Corner is the last of these pioneer-era commercial era in Miami-Dade County. The photo above, from the Jean Taylor properties still standing in Miami-Dade county. collection of the archives of the Historical Museum of South Florida, Will Anderson came from Indiana in the early days of the was taken in 1911. The photo below was taken in 2004. twentieth century to join his friend and hunting companion Charles Grossman, the first settler in the area. Silver Palm was known for its extensive pinelands and plentiful game. Anderson soon established a homesteaded just east of his friend and just south of the Perrine land grant. For some time, Anderson operated a commisary car for the Drake Lumber Company, providing staples and necessities for workers in remote lumber camps. In 1911, he established the William Anderson General Merchandise Store which sold a myriad of items to residents and businesses. With living quarters on the second floor, Anderson's Corner was strategically located across from the Silver Palm School at the intersection of two well-built roads -- much easier to reach than the town of Cutler, some 15 miles away. After serving as a general store until the 1930s, it was converted into apartments. Finally condemned in 1975, a reprieve was granted for rehabilition. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1977, the site bacame a local historic site in october 1981. The rehabilitation was completed in 1985.

8 9 Knaus Berry Farm 4 15980 SW 248th Street, Miami, FL Phone: 305-247-0668

They’re not Quakers and they’re not Amish, as many people believe, they’re Mennonites. They do produce some of the finest fresh produce and baked goods money can buy in South Florida. Knaus Berry Farm enjoys a reputation for outstanding organic produce and fresh flowers, fruit flavored milkshakes and homemade ice cream. But the one item that causes those long lines to form out long lines and great produce, plus fresh baked goods worth waiting for front in the morning and last until they close at sundown is their at (4) Knaus Berry Farm world famous sticky buns. A little patience pays off as you work your way to the counter for a chance at the warm cinnamon pecan buns. Also notable are the herb bread sticks, honey wheat bread, cheesecake, pineapple upside down cake and the brownies. Don’t bother waiting until you get home — resign yourself to enjoying the fresh baked goods right out of the oven, even if it means spoiling your next scheduled meal.

Redland Farm Life School

Across the street from Knaus, the original Redland Farm Life School was constructed in 1916 on land donated by William Anderson. Dr. Hyram Byrd was the impetus for consolidating the one room schools in Goulds, Eureka, Modello, Princeton, Murray Hill, Silver Palm and Redland into this one modern educational facility. For the first time, area children were transported to school by bus. The original L-shaped building contained classrooms for grades one through twelve, indoor bathrooms, electric lighting and cloak rooms. The auditorium, also built in 1916 seated three hundred people and was the pride of the school.

10 11 Fruit and Spice Park 5 24801 Redland Road (SW 187th Ave) Miami, FL Phone: 305-247-5727

Truly a unique source of wonder and amazement, the Fruit and Spice Park is more than 30 acres of tropical delight, with over 500 varieties of herbs, nuts, spices and unusual fruits. The main entrance building and gift shop is a re-creation of the original Redland one-room school house that served a dozen pioneer families and the children of railroad employees. The gift shop includes exotic and wonderful jellies, canned preserves, aromatic teas, unusual the gift shop of the (4) Fruit and Spice Park (above) is a recreation of seeds, cold fruit juices, plus an amazing collection of books ranging the original Redland one room school house, where unusual fruits and from cookery to plant propagation. spices (below) are available for tastings In 1944, the Miami-Dade Park and Recreation Department established the Fruit & Spice Park, the only garden park of its kind in the United States, on 32 acres of fertile farmland in the area known as the Redlands, 35 miles south of Miami. Among the park's many services are classes and tours of various fruit and vegetable-growing regions, including farm tours and fruit safaris, plus expert gardening and botanical advice. The Fruit and Spice Park plays an important role in the introduction of new crops to the public, and of providing new germ plasm for nurseries, farms and backyard growers. The park has an active exchange program with botanical gardens and parks in Central American, Southeast Asia, and Australia. Every January, more than 15,000 people flock to the annual Redland Natural Arts Festival at the park, where local artisans, artists, and gardeners display and sell their crafts. A like number of From Jackfruit and Black Sapote to Snake Fingers and Wax Jambu, a participants attend the annual Asian-American Arts Festival, held in quick tour will reveal many bizarre but edible delicacies at this world March, to experience the culture and food of more than 40 Asian famous garden nations. This festival has helped to bring many new and unusual vegetables and fruits to the South Florida market. Also of interest in the Park is one of the original coral rock buildings constructed in South Florida in 1912. This structure exemplifies early pioneer life in south Miami-Dade County. The official name of the property is Preston B. Bird and Mary Heinlein Fruit and Spice Park Botanical Garaden and Fruit Shop.

12 13 Kosel Homestead

Built of Dade County pine in 1905, this historic pioneer home still sits on the edge of an avocado grove planted at the turn of the last century. The home has had additions over the years, but the original wooden structure still remains intact. George Kosel migrated to South Florida from New York around the time Redland was formed in 1898, establishing one of the first homesteads in the newly emerging settlement. His 160 acre Jungle Grove, established in 1902, produced strawberries, oranges, mangos, grapefruit and a large variety of avocados. George married Maria Gazzam, another pioneer homesteader and the (5) Kosel House was build in 1905 of Dade County pine had two children, George Kosel, Jr and Bodil Kosel Lowe. Bodil still lives on the homestead and maintains the avocado groves. Please respect privacy by merely observing the property from the road. A historic marker near the road tells a brief history of the homestead.

Pioneer Guild Hall 6 26400 Redland Road (SW 187th ave), Miami FL

In 1907, the women of Redland formed the Pioneer Guild. Their motto was “to do the most good in the most places for social, church and civic purposes.” The land was donated by John Bauer, who also built an Episcopal Church and a general store at this intersection. Pioneer families hosted teas, barbecues and parties to raise funds to build the hall. This wooden structure, built in 1912, contained a stage and dance floor and soon became the center of social activity in Redland. During the summer, volunteers taught children art, dancing and etiquette. Pioneer Guild Hall is the last remaining building found at this important historic crossroad of Redland Road and Bauer Drive, SW 264th Street.

(6) Pioneer Guild Hall is the last remaining structure at this historic intersection of Redland and Bauer roads

14 15 RF Orchids 7 28100 SW 182nd Avenue, Miami, FL Phone: 305-245-4570

Bob Fuchs is a third generation orchid grower and his highly respected operation, RF Orchids is one of the finest in the South. Here you will find thousands of exotic orchids growing in a hammock like setting accented with gazebos, ponds, tiki huts and lush landscaping. The orchids are everywhere, with many of the finest on display at the entrance. Take your time looking around and don’t be afraid to ask questions of the staff. They’re always winning awards for outstanding work in orchid breeding and growing. It’s easy to see why when you visit the many greenhouses. Bob often gives personal tours of the property, so call ahead and find out if he might be available when you visit. With an enviable private collection of hybrids, Bob is world renown as an expert. He also leads fantastic travel tours to exotic destinations such as Indonesia and Thailand for orchid fanatics. a visit to (7) R.F. Orchids is a delightful experience Don’t miss the chance to take home a few great orchids. The prices are quite reasonable and the variety is outstanding.

Walton House

Unlike any other home of the Redland pioneer era, the Walton house, built with wooden frame and stucco in 1919, features a large gable roof that imitates the signature thatched roof of similar English structures. W.K. Walton started with four acres of avocados here, beginning the first commercial nursery of its kind in South Florida. The home and rare plant garden were restored in 1985. Please don't disturb the the Walton House, styled like an English cottage, was built in 1919 residents. and restored in 1985, including a rare plant garden

16 17 Robert Is Here 8 19200 SW 344th St. Homestead, FL 33034 Phone: 305-246-1592

He started out with a little card table, a few cucumbers and a sign proclaiming “Robert Is Here” and now, more than 40 years later, the world has beat a path to his door. You can’t get to the southern entrance of Everglades National Park without passing this world famous roadside attraction. Stopping here to admire the cornucopia of genuine Florida goodies is a right of passage for those that make the trek from down the street or half way around the world. The tropical fruit milkshakes, the flavored honeys, the incredible selection of jams and jellies, the completely unique and original sauces, the fresh produce, the most extensive selection of exotic fruits and vegetables... is all here. Perhaps a bit overwhelming at first, take your time browsing the shelves to appreciate the depth and breadth of Robert’s copious offerings, then load up on all your favorites.

(9) Robert is still here... after more than 40 years at this location, Robert continues to offer the finest collection of exotic fruit, specialties and condiments in the known universe

below: out back of the fruit stand, Robert features his own little zoo of sorts, including large amazon parrots, iguanas and tortoises

18 19 Florida Pioneer Museum 9 826 North Krome Drive, Homestead, FL 33030 Phone: 305-246-9531

Just north of the Farmer’s Market on Krome, an early 20th-century East Coast Railway agent’s house features turn-of-the-century memorabilia and fascinating records of pioneer life. There is also an antique train car and a 100 year old train station in the rear. The museum is only open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from noon to 5pm.

Historic Redland Hotel 10 South Flagler Avenue, Homestead, FL 33030 Phone: 305-246-1904 the (9) Florida Pioneer Museum includes a rail car and train station When this property was built in 1904, Homestead was an emerging settlement — a new frontier for farmers and adventurers. The advent of the railroad, and later US1, caused a boom in the 1920s until the dawn of the great depression in 1929. This historic inn, recently awarded for the outstanding job of restoring the property, offers all the charm and authentic atmosphere of by-gone days and stands as a living archive of Homestead’s past. The rooms are nicely appointed and the bar and reception area are spacious and decorated appropriately in the pioneer period. The restaurant is currently closed.

(10) the historic Redland Inn won awards for excellence in restoration and features a wonderful historic theme atmosphere. Historic Downtown Homestead Since 1913, Homestead has been the epicenter of rural life in South Dade. In spite of a history of booms and busts, the area has managed to retain all the rustic charm of centuries past in the Pioneer Park section by Krome and Mowry. The area is well known as a pedestrian friendly shopping zone where antique dealers and boutiques are weaved among fine eateries, specialty shops and art galleries. Several parks offer pleasant resting places; cobblestone streets and crosswalks invite strolling around. Within Pioneer Park on N. 2nd Street, a historic library building dedicated to the memory of Ms. Lily Lawrence Bows offers a superb example of century-old oolite rock construction, a stark contrast to other homes in the newly modern neighborhood. 2

20 21 Dining Suggestions After a day of touring down south, consider mixing up the itinerary with a visit to one of many great eateries in the area. El Taco Toro may be the best, authentic Mexican restaurant in historic Homestead, just one block west of the Redland Inn at the corner of Mowry and Krome. You might be surprised to discover that many patrons bring their own beer or liquor to this restaurant, which is encouraged. Absolutely everything is superb. Try the piñada plate of four great appetizers and the sumptuous chile relleño, or perhaps the fajitas. For dessert, their favorite is tres leches cake. 1 South Krome, Homestead, FL 33030. Phone: 305-245-8182. Shivers BBQ restaurant has a long history of serving home-style meals to regular folks. The Shiver family has roots in the community more than a century old and they're still quite active in civic affairs. The rustic old log cabin at SW 280th Street and US1 offers a great catfish dinner, in addition to famous ribs, chicken and all the fixings. 28001 S Dixie Highway, Homestead, FL. 305-248-2272 At Black Point Marina (SW 87 Ave at 248 Street), the Pirates Den waterfront restaurant offers live music on weekend evenings. They're well known for their fresh gator tail, conch fritters, calamari, dolphin nuggets and fried shrimp. The house specialty is Baked Dolphin Parmesan. 24775 SW 87th Avenue, Miami, FL 33032. Phone: 305-258- 3918 Tiffany's Cottage Dining, located in the shade of two large banyan trees, is a victorian style cottage restaurant. The specialty is breakfast all week and brunch on the weekends. Lunches are also served, featuring salads and sandwiches. The quiches and home-made deserts are favorites. They're closed for dinner, but available for private parties in the evenings. 22 N.E. 15th Street, Homestead, FL 33030. Phone: 305-246-0022. The Capri Restaurant has been serving locals with fine Italian meals since the 1950s. From pizza and lasagna to mussels and yellowtail snapper française, the fare here is consistent and moderately priced. 935 N. Krome Avenue, Florida City, FL. Phone: 305-247-1544 The Keys Seafood Restaurant is located at the end of the Turnpike, just south of Palm Avenue on US1 in Florida City. Here you'll find great seafood fresh from the Florida Keys at reasonable prices. The stone crabs, conch fritters, coconut shrimp, scallops and fried conch are notable, but the standout items might be the lobster reuben, key lime mahi and whiskey peppercorn snapper. Phone: 305-247-9456

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