The City of Miami was officially incorporated on July 28, 1896, marking a pivotal moment in the development of southern Florida. Julia Tuttle, a wealthy widow from Ohio, had moved to the area in 1891, where she purchased 640 acres of land with plans to farm. However, she quickly recognized the potential for Miami to grow into a bustling city and took action to make that vision a reality. Tuttle formed a strategic alliance with Henry Flagler, a prominent railroad tycoon, and successfully convinced him to extend his Florida East Coast Railway to Miami. This decision was transformative for the region, as the arrival of the railroad opened up new economic opportunities and accelerated growth.

With Flagler’s involvement, a resort hotel was soon built, and plans for the city were laid out, marking the foundation of what would become a thriving urban center. Over the decades, Miami expanded rapidly, becoming known for its cultural diversity, tourism, and economic vitality. Today, Miami stands as a major hub in the United States, ranking as the third wealthiest city in the nation, a testament to its rich history and continued growth.