According to early settler accounts, Palm Beach received its name from a shipwreck named the “Providencia.” The ship washed ashore in January of 1878 with a load of coconuts bound from Havana to Barcelona. Early settlers lost no time claiming salvage and planting the coconuts which were not native to South Florida in an effort to launch tropical South Florida on a commercial coconut industry. Henry M. Flagler, a millionaire industrialist and owner of the Florida East Coast Railway, began buying acres of land on the island of Palm Beach. Many early homesteaders found themselves very wealthy, as orders had been given to buy “at any price.” The town was incorporated on April 17, 1911 and soon began long range plans to develop and protect the island paradise.
Palm Beach is known for its Mediterranean-style of stunning architecture and natural beauty, acclaimed shopping, restaurants and hotels, a cosmopolitan culture, and an involved citizenry committed to civic and philanthropic giving.
Above are two photo’s one is the House of Lavande a vintage costume and couture jewelry boutique, http://www.houseoflavande.com/. Check out the gorgeous designs and long list of celebs who shop here on their website. The second photo is why the island is called Palm Beach…gorgeous avenue.