In 1887, Desoto County, named after the Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto, was created out of Manatee County and the county seat was to be located in Pine Level. Only a month later the first meeting was held and the main topic was which city would be the home of the new county seat. It took six months to decide; but Arcadia took the lead with 21 votes. In 1881 the discovery of phosphate along the Peace River brought new prosperity and new residents to the county. Although no one lost their life, on Thanksgiving Day of 1905 a huge fire engulfed the business district of Arcadia and destroyed over 40 buildings, but with the determination of the settlers in the area, a new business district was soon constructed. Many of the historic buildings that you see today in Arcadia were built after this fire in 1905. The cattle industry has always been the life line of Desoto County, as noted in the famous cattle wars that took place in the late 1800's, which resulted in Arcadia being well known as one of the wildest towns in all of Florida. There were two airfields that were constructed in Desoto County after the United States entered WWI; Carlstrom and Dorr Field. Both fields served as the US Army's main southeastern aviation training centers and both were shut down shortly after the war. During WWII the airfields were re-opened and served as the Army Air Force training schools under the supervision of the Riddle Organization.

Today Desoto County is the home to cities such as Arcadia, Brownville, Cubitis, Fort Ogden, Hull, Lake Suzy, Lansing, Nocatee, Southfort, Pine Level and Platt. Located along the Peace River, Desoto County provides ample opportunities for water recreation such as paddling, swimming, fishing, boating and don't forget to search for the many sharks teeth that lay along the banks of the river. The Arcadia Rodeo began back in 1928 as an attempt to raise money for a new building; today it has joined forces with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and become one largest rodeo attractions in Florida. There are two events that are scheduled annually; one during the second week in March and one in July. Don't miss out on the Desoto County Fair annually in January! Where the small communities in Desoto come together for a week of cotton candy, bull rides and thrill rides. The real estate options in Desoto County range from old Florida Homes along the Peace River to new subdivisions offering more modern homes in Arcadia.

Whether you are looking for a place to retire or to raise a family the quiet lifestyle of Desoto County has a little something for everyone! Land lots are equally abundant in Desoto County providing options to build your very own dream home. Relocating to this beautiful community promises years of learning, laughing and growing, as this area is rich in history, nature and some of the friendliest people in the State.