Welcome to the site commemorating New Smyrna’s First Greek Settlers, an often-overlooked chapter in the history of Greek migration to America. Established in 1768, this settlement was founded by Dr. Andrew Turnbull, a Scottish physician who envisioned creating a thriving agricultural colony. He recruited over 1,400 Mediterranean settlers, predominantly Greeks, along with Italians and Minorcans, to cultivate indigo and other crops in the Florida wilderness.
The settlers faced harsh conditions from the outset. The journey across the Atlantic was treacherous, and upon arrival, the settlers encountered a landscape that was far from the fertile paradise promised. They battled against diseases, poor living conditions, and the oppressive heat of the Florida climate. Despite these challenges, their resilience and determination to create a new life were remarkable.
Among the notable figures in this community was Dr. Turnbull himself, a man of vision but also controversy. While his plans were ambitious, his management of the colony faced criticism due to the harsh treatment of settlers, leading to unrest and dissatisfaction. This unrest culminated in 1777 when many of the settlers, disillusioned by broken promises and poor conditions, left New Smyrna and traveled to St. Augustine, where they were granted refuge.
Over time, those who stayed behind or returned formed the roots of the Greek-American community in Florida. The legacy of New Smyrna’s Greek settlers is evident in the cultural and historical contributions they made to the region. Today, their story is a testament to the perseverance and cultural heritage of Greek Americans, reminding us of the challenges and triumphs of early immigrant communities in the United States.
