Though St. James City itself was not the site of permanent Spanish settlement, the broader region experienced the introduction of European goods, livestock, and disease, which profoundly impacted Indigenous populations. The Calusa eventually declined under Spanish pressure, creating conditions for later American settlement.
Early American Settlement and Land Use
Following Florida’s acquisition by the United States in 1821, settlers from northern states and other parts of Florida began moving into Pine Island and its southern coast. Early American settlers were drawn to the region’s abundant fisheries, fertile soils, and strategic coastal location.
Subsistence agriculture, citrus groves, and cattle ranching became the primary economic activities. Families lived in modest homes near waterways, relying on boats to transport goods and communicate with other settlements along the Gulf Coast.
The Rise of Fishing and Maritime Economy
Fishing has been a central aspect of St. James City’s history since its earliest American settlement. Residents harvested shrimp, mullet, oysters, and other seafood to support local markets and regional trade.
The development of docks, small boatyards, and seafood processing operations facilitated commerce with nearby towns and cities. Fishing not only sustained the economy but also shaped community culture, cuisine, and social life. shutdown123