The Seminoles Club

The Seminoles Club. . In the early 1920's, people from Michigan began spending winters in Crystal River, encouraged by local businessman Frederick Van Roy. Many built homes in a two-block area which became known as Michigan Town., In 1924, a group of these folks decided to build a club house where they could have social get-togethers. Mr. Van Roy donated property where the Oxford Crate Company had been located. A building was soon erected by the members who began calling themselves "the Seminoles"., The club soon became a center for the community and permitted others to use the building with restrictions. Gambling and intoxicating drinks were prohibited and no games were to be played on the sabbath. Over the years, various events were held here, ranging from church services to high school proms. During World War II, soldiers from the Army radar installation at the Rock Crusher were fed and entertained by club members., The club continued its twice monthly potluck dinners from November to April for over seventy years. In 1998, because of declining membership and participation, the City of Crystal River accepted ownership of the property and made renovations to it so that it could continue to be a place for community activities until 2012, when it was purchased by a private party.