newsgathers

Nestled in Florida's panhandle, merely 17 miles from Tallahassee, lies a quaint town named Havana, celebrated for its strong Cuban roots and artistic essence. While the name Havana often brings to mind images of Cuban cigars and expansive sugar cane fields, Havana, Florida, similarly thrived as an agricultural center, particularly for tobacco, in its early years. With a modest population of around 2,300, this once-bustling tobacco hub has gracefully transitioned, its streets now adorned with an array of vintage and antique shops.

As you journey through northern Florida, the region's inherent beauty and historical allure become evident in towns like Havana. Its convenient location near U.S. Highway 27, nestled between the Georgia state line and Tallahassee, makes it an excellent choice for a day trip or a peaceful interlude during a Southern road adventure. The town invites leisurely strolls along its pedestrian-friendly streets, which are dotted with charming vintage furniture stores, cozy cafes, and a vibrant arts and antiques community. This tight-knit community, comprising farms, homes, and local businesses, each contributes to the town's distinctive character. Downtown Havana's Main Street pulses with unique boutiques and beautifully maintained public areas, enhancing its friendly, small-town atmosphere. Seasonal festivities further ignite the town's spirit, with October's Pumpkinfest offering family-friendly activities, delicious treats, and live music, while winter brings a tree-lighting ceremony and WinterFest celebrations to Main Street.

Known as Florida's 'Friendliest Small Town,' Havana's origins trace back to 1906, when it emerged as a significant agricultural center during the tobacco trade era. Its name, a nod to the Cuban capital renowned for cigar production, reflects its historical connection to the bustling hand-rolled cigar industry. Visitors can delve into this rich past at the Havana History and Heritage Society Shade Tobacco Museum, housed in the original 1928 Planters Exchange building. The museum showcases old photographs, paintings of tobacco fields, farming artifacts, and various cigar displays, alongside miniature tobacco barn models and murals, offering a captivating insight into the town's early agricultural heritage. Beyond its historical sites, Havana's downtown area, much like other antique havens, is a treasure trove of distinctive boutiques. Keep an eye out for the vibrant murals that embellish the town, celebrating its artistic flair and Americana roots, with colorful depictions of its moniker and tributes to historic businesses. Among the notable establishments are Bernard's Hidden Treasures, boasting unique vases and statuettes, and the Havana Herald, a vintage printing shop filled with typesetting equipment. Coon Bottom Farms Country Store also offers a glimpse into the town's past with its vintage printers and old town records. The town's vibrant arts scene is further enriched by initiatives like Artists Helping Artists, which champions local creatives by displaying their diverse works, including wooden sculptures, pottery, paintings, and jewelry. The D. Arthur McBride Portrait Studio and Gallery also features an impressive collection of oil paintings capturing natural landscapes, wildlife, and lifelike portraits. After exploring the galleries and boutiques, visitors can enjoy a refreshing break at Poppy's Coffee & More or Rooster's Roasters, both offering exquisite coffee blends and homemade treats. For those interested in the town's namesake product, the 850 Cigar Lounge provides an opportunity to sample a variety of quality cigars.

Havana, Florida, exemplifies how a community can honor its historical roots while embracing a dynamic present. It stands as a beacon of cultural richness and communal warmth, inviting all to explore its unique charm and contribute to its ongoing story of resilience and creativity. This town demonstrates that even in a rapidly changing world, the essence of a place can be preserved and celebrated through art, history, and genuine connection.