Jefferson County is unique in that it extends all the way from the Gulf of Mexico to the north Florida state line. The county seat of Monticello is in the northern portion of the county ... far away from the Gulf, but included, by definition, in the "Nature Coast" area.

Jefferson County was separated from Leon County in 1827, and named for Thomas Jefferson. The town of Monticello, named for Jefferson's home, was made the county seat long before Florida became a state in 1845.

The first county seat office, which also served as a post office in 1827, was a log cabin home belonging to John G. Robison. In 1841 a two story frame courthouse was completed and was used for the next 70 years. The current courthouse, pictured on this page, was built and dedicated in 1910.

As one of Florida's oldest towns, Monticello has an impressive historic district. In addition to the courthouse building, you can visit the Monticello Opera House, built in 1890, and still a center for culture and the arts. Also be sure to visit the Lloyd Railroad Station, which is the oldest brick station in Florida, and one of only three surviving railroad depots built before the Civil War. The building is currently used as a post office.

The city boasts a number of city parks, the most interesting of which is probably Monticello Ecological Park. It includes a loop walking trail that winds through a wooded area, including an elevated boardwalk across a spring fed stream. Exercise stations are located along the trail. There is also a two mile long multi-use paved trail that runs through the city along an old railroad right-of-way.

Monticello and Jefferson County host a number of annual events and festivals. A Chili Challenge is held each February, The Monticello Watermelon Festival is held over a weekend in June, preceded by a bed race and rodeo in the days leading up to the event. The Jefferson County BBQ Fest is held each November.Activities & Facilities

Hotel or B&BRestaurantDogs allowedShort hiking trailsLong hiking trailsPaved bike trailsFishing

• Monticello official website
• Monticello-Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce