Okaloosa County was formed from two counties, Santa Rosa and Walton, in 1915, and Eglin Field was created in 1937. In 1930, the population of the area was approximately 90 people; between 1940-1950, the population quadrupled. Between 1950-1970, Fort Walton Beach grew 700% and was recognized nationally as one of the fastest growing cities in the country. The existing Brooks Bridge was built in 1964, replacing the two-lane swing bridge, Eglin Parkway was widened to six lanes, and seven new traffic lights were installed. The tax base expanded, the Fort Walton Beach Civic Center complex and auditorium were built, as well as neighborhood parks and tennis courts, the Library, the Senior Center, the Tennis Center, the Municipal Golf Course (now the Fort Walton Beach Golf Club), and three neighborhood recreation centers--Docie Bass, Chester Pruitt, and Fred Hedrick.

In the last two decades growth in Fort Walton Beach has slowed. But the area still hosts exciting events; and in 1997, Fort Walton Beach was honored to be named by Money magazine as the #10 Best Place to Live among the 300 largest metropolitan areas in the U.S.A.

For more info on Fort Walton Beach real estate:

• Search for Fort Walton Beach real estate using our property search form.
• Visit our area information page for business, real estate, media, and education links for Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

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