Near Lithia in Hillsborough County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)
Site of Alderman's Ford
First Crossing Point of the Alafia River in This Vicinity
Photographed By Tim Fillmon, April 13, 2017
1. Site of Alderman's Ford Marker
In 1848, James Alderman settled near this site, a densely forested area, and cut down the steep banks of the Alafia River to make it easier for horses and wagons to ford it. The area became known as Alderman's Ford.As the land to the south of the river became more settled and crossings increased, the area around the ford grew in popularity for meetings and socializing. Picnics were common here as early as 1888. In 1902 the site became the scene of political rallies. In an era before the growth of mass communications, many political careers were launched at the ford. For more than half a century the Democratic Party of Hillsborough County kicked off its campaigns by popping political fireworks at the park.
Erected by The Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation Department with the cooperation of the Hillsborough County Historical Commission.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Government & Politics • Settlements & Settlers • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical year for this entry is 1848.
Location. 27° 52.055′ N, 82°
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 11 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Site of Fort Alafia (approx. 0.2 miles away); Turkey Creek School (approx. 5.7 miles away); Glover School (approx. 6.2 miles away); Bealsville (approx. 6.6 miles away); Brandon Family Cemetery (approx. 10.1 miles away); Site of Methodist Episcopal Church South (approx. 10.1 miles away); Saved from Slavery (approx. 10.2 miles away); The Mulberry Tree (approx. 10.2 miles away).
Photographed By Tim Fillmon, April 13, 2017
2. Site of Alderman's Ford Marker and surrounding area
Credits. This page was last revised on December 6, 2017. It was originally submitted on December 4, 2017, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida. This page has been viewed 472 times since then and 99 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 4, 2017, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.
