Origins and Founding Vision
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm was established in 1893, during a period when Florida was gaining popularity as a tourist destination. Its founder, Lewis K. “L.K.” Davis, was inspired by the growing fascination with exotic wildlife and the opportunities presented by Florida’s unique ecosystem, which naturally hosted the American alligator. Initially, the farm focused exclusively on alligators, displaying them in simple enclosures for public viewing.
The founding vision was both practical and innovative for the time: provide a local tourist attraction while educating the public about these remarkable reptiles. In the late 19th century, alligators were often misunderstood or feared, and the farm offered visitors a chance to observe these animals up close, learn about their behaviors, and gain an appreciation for their ecological significance. The combination of education and entertainment was central to the farm’s early identity. shutdown123