The Yulee Sugar Mill was built by David Levy Yulee who in 1845 became Florida’s first U .S. Senator. He operated the 5,100 acre sugar plantation and mill near Homosassa with over 150 slaves until 1861 when the Civil War brought an end to its operation and Yulee was later imprisoned for his support of the Confederacy.

As one of Florida’s original roadside attractions, the mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park have entertained visitors since 1947. The famous springhead flows over 170 gallons of fresh water a day feeding the 12-mile Weeki Wachee River and the water park activities.