Clearwater history

Timeline

1. 1528 — Narváez lands. Spanish explorer Pánfilo de Narváez landed on this shore with five ships and about 600 men.
2. Mid-1830s — Odet Philippe. Dr. Odet Philippe settled with his family at what is now Philippe Park.
3. 1841 — Fort Harrison. Fort Harrison was built on the bluffs for 500 soldiers recovering after the Seminole Wars; it was abandoned months later.
4. 1842 — Homesteaders. The Armed Occupation Act offered 160 acres; James Stevens received the first land title.
5. 1912 — County seat. Clearwater was chosen as the county seat of the new Pinellas County.
6. 1957 — Fastest-growing. Clearwater was known as the fastest-growing city in America.

Sources: Clearwater Historical Society — Celebrating Clearwater · Clearwater Historical Society — Facts about Clearwater's History. Checked Oct 9, 2026.

Museums & historic sites

• Clearwater Historical Society Museum · 610 S Fort Harrison Ave, Clearwater

  Photos, yearbooks, plats and artifacts. Listed open Wed–Sat 10am–2pm — confirm before going.

  Hours & admissionDirections