Arcadia, Florida | city, county seat

 city, county seat

Arcadia is a city in DeSoto County, Florida, United States. The population was 6,604 as of the 2000 census. According to the U.S Census estimates of 2005, the city grew to 7,151. It is the county seat of De Soto County. The city was devastated by Hurricane Charley in 2004. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 10.5 km² (4.0 sq mi). 4.0 square miles (10.5 km²) of it is land and 0.25% is water. The Rev. James Hendry named the town in honor of Arcadia Albritton, a daughter of pioneer settlers who baked him a cake for his birthday. He appreciated it so much he named the city after her.

During the late 1800s Arcadia was the county seat of what would become many counties. In 1921 legislation enacted called for Arcadia to remain the county seat of Desoto County and resulted in the creation of present day counties of Charlotte, Hardee, Glades and Highlands. Prior to this break up Arcadia's population had grown considerably with over 1,000 permanent residents and boasted 3,000 square miles for ranching. During Thanksgiving Day in 1905 the town was destroyed by a large-scale fire that originated from a mid-town livery stable. Furthermore the fire was exasperated because the town did not have a working water system or fire department. The estimated monetary damage was $250,000 but there was no loss of life. Much of the business district was not spared. It would be years before the town recovered.

Arcadia's local economy is heavily reliant upon agriculture. Primary agriculture elements include citrus, cattle and watermelons. Additionally Arcadia has experienced a surge in home development due in part to residents relocating from surrounding counties and commuting to their work destinations. During the winter months many retirees from the mid west relocate to Arcadia, which provides a needed contribution to the local economy.