Destin's 5 Founding Families

Destin, Florida, is a beautiful city located in the Florida Panhandle. It is a popular vacation destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. However, not many people know the history of this charming town. Destin was founded by a handful of families who moved to the area in the late 1800s. In this blog post, we will discuss the five families that helped found Destin, Florida.

The Marlers

The Marlers were one of the first families to settle in the Destin area. They arrived in the late 1800s and built a homestead on what is now known as Marler Bayou. The family made their living by fishing, and their expertise in the field helped them become one of the most successful fishing families in the area. They were instrumental in establishing the Destin Fishing Fleet and helped make the city one of the top fishing destinations in the country.

The Destins

Leonard Destin was the man who first discovered the area that would later become Destin, Florida. He arrived in the early 1800s and quickly realized the potential of the region for fishing. He set up a fishing village and eventually built a home, which still stands today as a historic site. The Destin family continued to live in the area and helped establish the fishing industry, which still plays a vital role in the city's economy.

The Hogans

The Hogan family arrived in the Destin area in the late 1800s and quickly became involved in the fishing industry. They were known for their exceptional fishing skills and were instrumental in developing new fishing techniques. The family also built a store that sold fishing supplies and other goods, which became a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

The Melvins

The Melvin family arrived in the Destin area in the early 1900s and built a homestead on what is now known as the Melvin Cemetery. The family was involved in fishing and helped establish the Destin Fishing Rodeo, which is still held annually in the city. The Melvins also played a vital role in the development of the city's infrastructure, including the construction of roads and bridges.

The Calhouns

The Calhoun family arrived in the Destin area in the early 1900s and built a home near what is now known as Calhoun Avenue. The family was involved in the fishing industry and helped establish the Destin Fishing Fleet. They also played a vital role in the development of the city's tourism industry, helping to establish hotels and other accommodations for visitors.

In conclusion, the five families mentioned above played a vital role in the establishment and development of Destin, Florida. Their expertise in fishing and their hard work helped make the city one of the top fishing destinations in the country. Today, their legacy lives on, and their contributions to the city are still celebrated by locals and visitors alike.