Welcome to Boca Raton’s Old City Hall, a cornerstone of history located in the heart of Boca Raton, Florida. Originally designed by the talented architect Addison Mizner, this building stands as a testament to the rich historical tapestry of the city. Established in 1927, the Old City Hall was part of Mizner’s grand vision to create a luxurious resort community during the Florida land boom of the 1920s. Although Mizner’s ambitious plans were curtailed by the economic downturn, the Old City Hall remains a lasting legacy of his Mediterranean Revival architectural style.
Throughout its years, the Old City Hall has witnessed the evolution of Boca Raton from a tiny agricultural community to a bustling modern city. Today, it serves as the Boca Raton Welcome Center and the Boca Raton History Museum, providing a window into the past for visitors eager to learn about the city’s journey.
Significant historical events have marked the role of this building in the broader context of Boca Raton’s development. In the 1940s, the area was transformed as the Army Air Corps established a radar training school nearby, bringing servicemen and their families to the city and contributing to its growth. Later, in the 1960s, the establishment of Florida Atlantic University on the site of the old airbase further cemented Boca Raton’s role as an educational and technological hub.
The Old City Hall is not just a building; it is a story of transformation, resilience, and community spirit. As you explore its halls, imagine the bustling activity of a bygone era and the influential figures who might have walked these floors, shaping the future of Boca Raton. From city officials to curious tourists, countless individuals have contributed to the narrative that makes this site so significant today.