Welcome to North Palm Beach, a charming village with a rich history of transformation and growth. Nestled in Palm Beach County, Florida, this village emerged from the vision of John D. MacArthur who, in 1954, purchased a vast stretch of land previously owned by Harry Seymour Kelsey and Sir Harry Oakes. This acquisition set the stage for the development of North Palm Beach, alongside neighboring areas like Lake Park and Palm Beach Gardens.
The village was incorporated in 1956, quickly earning recognition as the best planned community of the year by the National Association of Home Builders. The development involved extensive dredging to create waterfront properties with cul-de-sacs, and the realignment of US 1 to serve as the main civic corridor. This meticulous planning was pivotal in shaping the village’s identity.
A notable landmark in North Palm Beach is the North Palm Beach Country Club. Originally the Palm Beach Winter Club, designed by Seth Raynor in 1926, it became a crucial part of the village when acquired by the municipality in 1962. The course underwent a significant redesign in 2006 by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, evolving into a premier public golfing destination.
The club’s transformation into a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course added a layer of prestige, underscoring the village’s commitment to quality and excellence. The golf course blends natural beauty with challenging topography, offering golfers an unparalleled experience. Its status as a historic site on the Florida Historic Golf Trail further cements its importance in Florida’s golfing history.
North Palm Beach is not just about golf. The architectural marvel of Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Center, designed by Franciscan Brother Cajetan Baumann, adds a spiritual and cultural dimension to the village. Recognized as one of America’s top architectural works in 1962, the center showcases Modernist architecture imbued with spiritual essence.
From its beginnings as mangrove swamps and farmland to its current status as a vibrant, planned community, North Palm Beach stands as a testament to visionary planning and development. It’s a place where history and modernity coexist, offering visitors a glimpse into a thoughtfully crafted community.
