This Month in Miami Beach: The Incorporation of Miami Beach (March 26, 1915)

March is a significant month in Miami Beach’s history, marking the official incorporation of our city on March 26, 1915. What began as a vision for a resort destination, amidst swampland and mangroves, has grown into a international destination for art, culture, hospitality, and economic opportunity.

From Untamed Wilderness to Iconic City

Prior to being the vibrant city it is today, Miami Beach was just a barrier island covered in mangroves, pine trees, and wild coconut palms. First developed in the late 1800s, when pioneers like John S. Collins, Carl Fisher, and the Lummus brothers saw the potential for a tropical paradise. Collins, a New Jersey businessman, initially attempted to grow coconuts on the land but quickly shifted his focus to real estate development. His dream took shape when Fisher, an automotive tycoon, provided financial backing to complete the Collins Bridge in 1913, linking Miami Beach to the mainland and setting the stage for the city's growth.

March 26, 1915: A City is Born

Recognizing the potential for development and tourism, local residents voted to incorporate Miami Beach as a city on March 26, 1915. At the time, it had a population of only a few dozen people, but that number would soon skyrocket as developers transformed the area into an upscale winter destination.

Thereafter the founders sought out to create Miami Beach’s unique identity, one built on luxury, leisure, and innovation. In the 1920s, the city flourished with Mediterranean Revival architecture, lavish hotels, and a booming tourism industry. By the 1930s and 1940s, the rise of Art Deco cemented Miami Beach’s reputation as a glamorous escape for celebrities, business magnates, and sun-seekers alike.

110 Years of Growth and Evolution

As the 110th anniversary nears, it is remarkable to see how far the Miami Beach  has grown. From a pioneering beachfront settlement to an international hub for business, culture, and hospitality, Miami Beach continues to evolve and make bold moves.

Today, the city remains a leader in economic development, with initiatives focused on attracting new businesses, fostering innovation, and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors. The same entrepreneurial spirit and values that drove the city’s founders still fuels Miami Beach’s growth, ensuring it remains an iconic destination for generations to come.

Looking to the Future

While much has changed since 1915, Miami Beach’s commitment to progress, sustainability, and economic vitality remains strong and committed to innovation, resilience, and excellence.

Happy 110^th Anniversary Miami Beach!