By Mike Miller Updated May 23, 2022
Mims is an old citrus service village located in the north end of Brevard County north of Lagrange and Titusville.
It was named after an early settler named Casper Neil Mims who came to the area in 1876, and opened the first dry goods and grocery store in the community.
The town began to grow when the railroad came to town in 1885.
Mims developed into a citrus center when New York Fire Chief Thomas F. Nevins began to buy and develop groves in the area including Merritt Island.
Nevins Fruit Company became a big shipper of citrus to northern markets.
Two tragic and violent murders took place in Mims in 1951.
Harry T and Harriette Moore
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Moore Home on Christmas Day
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Harry T. Moore and his wife, Harriette, were killed in an explosion on Christmas Day; the date was also their 25th wedding anniversary.
Moore was the state secretary of the NAACP, and had been a Brevard County school teacher.
The Ku Klux Klan was suspected of planting a bomb under the Moore home, but no convictions have ever been made and the case is still unsolved.
The Brevard County Parks and Recreation Department maintains and operates the Harry T. and Harriette Moore Memorial Park and Interpretive Center at the homesite in Mims.
Built in 2004, it includes artifacts from the Moore's life and newspaper clippings of his career and tragic death.
The site also includes a house built to duplicate the Moore's residence before it was bombed.
It is an interesting and sobering experience to visit this place.
A pleasant place to stay in Mims is the Wayward Traveler's Inn, owned by Sandra Braendli. It is a beautifully restored 1869 house with several themed rooms.
It is located at 2398 N. Singleton Avenue in Mims. Telephone 321-451-4992.
A Day Away Kayak Tours
NW Haulover Road, Mims, FL 32754 | (321) 307-9288
Their guides are all trained to give you clear and helpful instruction and will have you paddling like a champ in just a few minutes.
They offer the following kayak tours: Moonlight Tours, Sunrise & Sunset Tours, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Tours, Manatee Encounter Tours, Silver River Tours, Private Refuge Tours and their specialty, Bioluminescent Tours.
Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Memorial Park & Museum
2180 Freedom Ave, Mims, FL 32754 | (321) 264-6595
As discussed earlier, this historic site honors two civil rights pioneers with a museum, cultural center, and a replica of the Moore's home. Our favorite aspect is the educational tours that provide insight into their lives and legacy.
Hatbill Park
100 Hatbill Rd, Mims, FL 32754 | (321) 264-5037
This remote park is a favorite among locals for its excellent freshwater fishing and scenic views of the St. Johns River. We enjoy the quiet atmosphere and the chance to catch largemouth bass.
Ever After Farms U-Pick Blueberries
4400 Bouganvilla Dr, Mims, FL 32754 | (321) 269-9502
They supply the bags so that you have a place to store your berries while picking as well as to bring home. They also provide refreshments too in case you are thirsty or hungry. You’re encouraged to bring sunscreen and a large hat to shade your face.
Ever After Farms U-Pick Peach and Flower Farm
4455 Dixie Way, Mims, FL 32754 | 321-269-9502
They provide wood peach baskets to collect the peaches you pick and you get to take it home with you. Pick beautiful sunflowers per bunch and they provide a temporary vase for you to take your sunflowers home with water. They accept credit cards.
Indian River Preserve Golf Club
3950 Clubhouse Dr, Mims, FL 32754 | (321) 385-2099
This championship golf course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. We love the well-maintained fairways and greens, set against the backdrop of Florida’s natural beauty.
Shilohs Steak & Seafood
3665 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32780 | (321) 567-3555
Overlooking the Indian River in nearby Titusville, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and steak dishes. Our favorite is dining on the outdoor deck during sunset, enjoying the view and the gentle breeze.
Fox Lake Sanctuary
4400 Fox Lake Rd, Titusville, FL 32796 | (321) 264-5037
This nature preserve offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. You'll enjoy the serene environment and the picturesque lake, perfect for picnicking and relaxation.
There are picnic tables, playground swings and barbecue grill.
Enchanted Forest Sanctuary
444 Columbia Blvd, Titusville, FL 32780 | (321) 264-5185
This beautiful preserve features hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, including oak hammocks, wetlands, and pine flatwoods. Our favorite trail leads to a boardwalk that offers a stunning view of the forest.
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