Back in the 19th century, the San Marco area was actually known as Oklahoma. It didn’t consist of much until a woman by the name of Margaret Reed Mitchell decided to build a sprawling estate overlooking St. Johns River. The estate was named Villa Alexandria and featured tennis courts, a polo field and swimming pool. Today, the estate’s carriage lane and bridal path are incorporated into Davin Park. The park’s artesian well was once a refreshment spot for the horses on their way to the polo field.
Development of the modern-day San Marco subdivision began in the 1920s. In designing the community, the developer incorporated a business district with an Italian flair, plus a manmade lake. Piazza di San Marco served as the inspiration for the business district, while a clay pit used by a local brick company was turned into Lake Marco. With these amenities, the homes in the area were immediately in demand. Work began on a second subdivision, appropriately named Villa Alexandria, just a few years later.
Education
Public schooling in San Marco is provided by Duval County Public Schools. Campuses attended by San Marco residents include Landon Middle School, Englewood High School, LaVilla School of the Arts, and Stanton High School, the last two being magnet schools. Those seeking to further their education can attend the University of North Florida, located only a few minutes away.
Attractions & Points of Interest
Notable San Marco landmarks include San Marco Preservation Hall, Landon Junior High School, San Marco Theatre, St. Mark’s Building and the Treaty Oak. San Marco Preservation Hall was originally constructed in 1888 as St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. The structure has been relocated from its original location and now functions as the offices for the San Marco Preservation Society. Landon Junior High, still a functioning public school, was designed in the 1920s in the beaux-arts style. San Marco Theatre and St. Mark’s Building are both located in San Marco Square. The theatre was designed in the 1930s and shows off a fun art deco style. St. Mark’s Building was San Marco Square’s first structure and remains a centerpiece of the square today. And finally, there is the Treaty Oak, a massive, 200-year old oak tree linked to local Native America history, located within Jessie Ball DuPont Park.
Parks
Public parks in the San Marco area include Florida East Coast Railroad Park, Fletcher Park, Whatley Park, Davin Park, Colonial Manor Lake, Kings Road Park, Landon Park and River Oaks Park.
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