One of the most popular neighborhoods in town, Colee Hammock is also one of Fort Lauderdale’s oldest and most charming, featuring a number of homes built more than 70 years ago, many of which have been faithfully restored. This quaint, tree-lined community borders one of the many waterways found throughout the city but is also considered part of its growing and bustling urban downtown.

When Henry Flagler brought his Florida East Coast Railway to Fort Lauderdale in the late 1890s, he wanted to continue on a straight line along the coastal ridge down to Miami. But that would have taken his tracks right through the beautiful oak hammock where the Colees had settled. Instead, Mary Brickell - the famous speculator who bought the land in 1916 - refused to sell and forced Flagler to take his tracks west. One day, she predicted, this would be a beautiful residential neighborhood. Mary Brickell’s foresight was correct; and today the neighborhood she fought to preserve is one of Florida’s most beautiful urban subdivisions, still graced with those ancient oaks and a small town atmosphere within the larger city around it.

Mary Brickell’s vision of a beautiful residential neighborhood would ultimately exceed even her expectations. Some of the most charming residences in Colee Hammock go back decades. Recent years have seen older cottages replaced by larger elegant homes, some of which can be counted among Fort Lauderdale’s finest residences. Today, the neighborhood features an eclectic mix of Mediterranean Revival, Craftsman bungalows, and mission and modern styles from the 1920’s- 40’s; not to mention 21st Century contemporary. But through it all, in most cases, the builders have taken pains to preserve the old trees and wooded canopy which have characterized the area since back in Mary Brickell’s day.

Aside from the allure of its natural and architectural beauty, Colee Hammock may be just as popular for its location: within walking distance to Las Olas Boulevard. The “Rodeo Drive” of Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas is well-known for its assortment of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and sidewalk cafes. In addition, a short trip over the Las Olas Bridge means that Fort Lauderdale beach is just minutes away.

If the history, beauty, and convenient location of Colee Hammock are enticing to you, then contact Gayle Borden at 954.525.3355 to find your piece of Fort Lauderdale Real Estate.