Neighboring Cities: Apollo Beach | Sun City Center | Balm/Wimauma | Summerfield
Dr. George McAnelly Miller and three of his brothers-in-law agreed to trade property in Missouri for 12,000 acres in Florida. Thus, his dream became reality. From his previous experience, Dr. Miller already knew how to get things started and what to avoid in a cooperative community. The founders purchased land, subdivided it, and created a marketing and development company. The Ruskin Homemakers sold the plots. Part of the proceeds from sales went to the Commongood Society for general community improvements and expenses of Ruskin College. The covenant contained provisions against profanity, smoking and drinking. Landowners were required to be white. Ruskin College was a central feature of the community. The college buildings were erected from locally available timber. Student's days were divided into thirds, with work, study and relaxation claiming equal portions of their days. The curriculum was varied and liberal. In its early days, Ruskin was an isolated community. Tampa and St. Petersburg could only be reached by boat ride which took several hours each way. |