Overview

Aside from Native American Timucuans who lived in the area, the first white men to touch Florida's western coast were 16th century Spanish explorers. In search of gold, new territory, and the elusive Fountain of Youth, they stayed only long enough to realize that nothing lucrative could be easily had and then moved on. In the 19th century, settlers came to farm, to extend the railroad to the Gulf coast, and to benefit physically from the climate. Among them were John C. Williams, a former Union army general, and Peter Demens, a native Russian involved in land speculation. The two collaborated on linking the railroad to the peninsula and then competed to title the region. Ultimately, Demens won, naming the town after his Russian birthplace. In successive years, St. Petersburg gained a reputation for its healthful environment, and vacationers began to flock to the area and its developing beaches. Early in the 20th century, passenger airline service originated in St. Petersburg and helped spur the area's growth. Today, the city � considered Florida's fourth largest � still builds on that impulse and makes much of its revenue from tourism. In fact, visitors find plenty to compete for their attention. Resorts and museums, sunsets and sailing, concerts and spring training, golf courses and beaches � all of these captivate, entertain, and insinuate themselves into the hearts of tourists and residents alike. And whether you come for business with Lucent Technologies, Raymond James Financial, Danka Business Systems, or the Home Shopping Network, or whether you just want to spot a dolphin and feed a pelican, St. Petersburg can make it happen. And lest you not experience all the city has to offer, don't forget to catch a Devil Rays game at Tropicana Field, spend some time at The Pier, and indulge in the city's incomparable claim to fame � the grouper sandwich.

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