The Story Behind Florida’s Abandoned Overseas Railroad Will Boggle Your Mind
Henry M. Flagler's ambitious Florida East Coast Railway to Key West, once deemed "Flagler's Folly," became a significant historical landmark despite its eventual destruction by a hurricane.
If you live in Florida, you're probably familiar with some of the oil tycoon Henry M. Flagler's work. Back in the early 1900s, Florida was a popular winter destination for the upper crust, and some of Florida's most extravagant works of architecture were commissioned by Flagler himself. Flagler College (Ponce de León Hotel) in St. Augustine, and Whitehall, the impressive mansion that is now the Flagler Museum in Palm Beach, both serve as reminders of his influence, as do many monuments across the state. Even the abandoned Flagler Railroad seems to be a testament to both man's ingenuity and arrogance. Was this Flagler folly the biggest architectural disaster in the state? Many believe it was Flagler's Folly, so let's find ut what happened to this railroad in Key West.
These treasured Flagler landmarks remain in good condition, but even Flagler wasn't infallible. In 1905, the industrialists decided to extend the Florida East Coast Railway beyond Miami, all the way to Key West. The hope was for the Flagler Railroad to Key West to profit from this more than 100-mile extension by having the best available access to Cuba and the proposed Panama Canal.
As you can imagine, construction was difficult, dangerous, and very expensive. Three hurricanes threatened to derail the project, but Flagler pressed on. It was completed in 1912, and what had originally been referred to as "Flagler's Folly" suddenly became "The Eighth Wonder of the World." Flagler Railroad to Key West is still one of the most talked about bridges in the southeast.
In 1935, however, nature delivered a fatal blow when a Category 5 hurricane took out a large part of the middle section of the railroad and made it unusable. More than 400 workers on the rail were killed in the storm. No one wanted to cover the tremendous cost of repairing it, so the land was sold to the state, which, soon afterward, began building the "Overseas Highway" over the salvageable portions of the structures along the rail that remained. The highway was rebuilt once more in the 1980s, and it now runs alongside some of the original railway ruins, which Florida has converted into fishing piers and walking paths called the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail.
Florida East Coast Railway, Key West Extension. Henry M. Flagler and a party of 7 men inspecting the work on the railroad on Stock Island on February 8, 1906.
Craving more abandoned goodies in Florida aside from Flagler's Folly? You should check out this list of stunning abandoned places in Florida. ANd when you go, be sure to take a camera like a GoPro with you!
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Have you ever checked out the abandoned Flagler Railroad for yourself? What do you think of this interesting chapter in our state's history: extravagant or necessary? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. We'd love to hear if you think Flagler's folly was even a folly at all.
I’ve been a Miami resident all my life. Born and raised. Most people don’t believe me when I tell them - they say “You’re FROM Miami?” Like it’s the craziest thing to come out of my mouth. But the truth is, both my parents were from New York and moved to Florida (separately) and met and had me.
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I grew up in a time when a boom of young families were moving into the area. There were U-Pick farms and two-lane roads, and it was safe for kids to ride bikes after school and not come home until dark.
This was before Miami was filled with car horns blaring in rush hour traffic and when Brickell was just a blip on the map.
I saw it all.
I enjoyed the sight of pastel-colored Art Deco buildings on South Beach and the smell of fresh Cuban coffee swirling around my head like a caffeinated halo. I survived Hurricane Andrew and lived through the devastating aftermath. I watched Wynwood go from an underground hipster haven with Friday Art Walks to paying to enter the Wynwood Walls, that is if you can find parking at all.
Miami was my playground growing up -- the land of endless summer, nights spent at Churchill's listening to no-name rock bands, and palm trees that waved driving across the MacArthur Causeway. I knew every nook and cranny of the city, from Homestead to Little Havana, Kendall to the Broward County line, and I wore my "305" badge with pride. This was my home, and I loved it.
But then, Davie happened.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: Davie? Isn’t that where people go to get away from, well, everything? You wouldn’t be wrong, but that’s part of its charm. Davie is like the quiet kid in the back of the classroom who turns out to be surprisingly fascinating once you strike up a conversation. It’s not flashy, not particularly loud, and it’s definitely not trying to keep up with Miami’s frenetic pace. In fact, it’s doing the exact opposite.
Let me tell you how I stumbled into this small, rural Florida town that, against all odds, managed to capture my city-loving heart.
Romance and inspiration. Beautiful tropical trees against sky. Rows of fantastic coconut palm trees on majestic sunset sky. Palm trees background banner. Tranquil relaxing nature panorama copy space
It started house hunting just a few years ago. Yep, that's right - house hunting in Miami, I’d be lucky to get a one-bedroom fixer-upper with a budget most people could snag a 3/2 in the rural Midwest. It was frustrating to say the least, going from house to house in Dade County, not having much luck or interest. That was until I moved my search to Broward and a whole world of possibility opened up.
I hadn’t considered living in Davie much at first. But then I noticed something I hadn’t expected: space. No, not like the cosmos, but literal, physical space. Unlike Miami, where every square inch is developed or under development, Davie is sprawling. There are actual ranches with horses trotting about like they own the place, and roads where the only traffic jam you’ll hit is behind a slow-moving tractor. And, for the first time in a long time, I felt like I could exhale. Really exhale.
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Davie, Florida, with its wide-open spaces and laid-back vibe, would be the perfect spot to catch my breath. I wasn’t expecting much—maybe a decent farmer’s market and some cows grazing in the distance, which, to be fair, is exactly what I got.
There’s something about driving down Griffin Road, going west, away from it all, and seeing nothing but green for miles, the occasional horse crossing signs reminding you that you’re not in Miami anymore. Life in Davie has a slower rhythm, and I found myself kind of sinking into it. It was like I had been dancing to the frantic beats of Miami’s nightlife all my life, and suddenly, someone switched the playlist to a chill acoustic set. And I was okay with it.
One of the things I quickly fell in love with was Davie’s unapologetic rural charm. It’s a town where cowboy boots and hats aren’t just Halloween costumes, and it’s totally normal to see someone riding a horse down the street. Yes, a horse. That was when I knew Davie was playing by its own rules, and honestly, it was kind of refreshing. I mean, have you ever tried riding a horse through downtown Miami? Don’t. It’s not exactly traffic-friendly.
But Davie isn’t just some sleepy little town where nothing ever happens. Oh no. There’s a deep sense of community here, and it’s infectious. I’ve made friends at Home Depot, who offered me free Alocasia plants because they have too many and didn’t expect anything in return. My neighbors bring me mangos from their trees or pineapple plants they’ve started from scratch.
Even more surprising was Davie’s hidden gems. There’s Wolf Lake, where you can wander around the beautiful lake and enjoy an untouched pocket of nature. Or Flamingo Gardens, a lush sanctuary that’s home to flamingos, peacocks, and even a resident panther. It’s like Davie is a little slice of old Florida, untouched by the towering condos and high-rises that dominate the coastline. It’s peaceful, serene, and just plain beautiful.
Shot of a pair of cowboy boots in a barn
Somewhere between the rodeos, the nature trails, and the peaceful quiet, this small rural town of Davie, Florida, managed to capture my heart in a way that Miami, for all its glitz and glamour, hadn’t anymore. It wasn’t about what Davie had that Miami didn’t—it was about what Davie didn’t have. No skyscrapers blocking the horizon, no endless traffic, no constant hum of a city that never sleeps. Just space, quiet, and a sense of calm that I didn’t realize I’d been craving.
So here I am, a Miami resident at heart, but with a newfound love for a little town called Davie. And honestly? I think the cowboy boots suit me.
Do you love your state as much as I love mine? Show your state pride with some Wear Your Roots clothing!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
