LaBelle began as a settlement on the Caloosahatchee River around the time of Hamilton Disston’s efforts to drain the Everglades with the hope of promoting growth. The settlement, which laid on western edge of Captain Francis A. Hendry’s large Monroe County’s land, was initially populated with cattle drovers and trappers. By 1891, LaBelle had constructed its first school. In 1909, Captain Hendry subdivided his land to be sold. The majority land holding stake was bought by E. E. Goodno, which increased the size of LaBelle almost twenty times its original size.[5] As of the census[2] of 2000; there were 36,210 people, 10,850 households, and 8,137 families residing in Hendry County. LaBelle’s industry is largely agricultural with citrus leading the way. From September through June millions of boxes of oranges, grapefruit, and specialty citrus are trucked through LaBelle, as southwest Florida has become Florida’s fastest growing citrus production area. Every February LaBelle hosts the world famous “Swamp Cabbage Festival”. This weekend long celebration includes a parade, beauty pageant, 5K run, bike festival, rodeo, car show, entertainment and of course plenty of Swamp Cabbage. Majestic oaks line it’s streets and the town straddles the scenic Caloosahatchee River. LaBelle is “old Florida” laid back, and friendly. Due to its rural setting there remain many beautiful large parcels perfect for building your new home.
Government Links
The State of Florida
City of LaBelle
City of Clewiston
Chamber of Commerce
LaBelle Chamber of Commerce
Clewiston Chamber of Commerce
Schools
Florida Gulf Coast University
Edison State College
Hodges University
Barry University - Ft. Myers Branch
Hendry Schools
Hendry County Parks and Recreation
Swamp Cabbage Festival
LaBelle Nature Park
LaBelle Heritage Museum