Dania Beach Florida, Broward County’s first city was originally called “Modello” by pioneer Developer W. C. Valentine in 1898. Twelve Danish families moved from Wisconsin and settled in “Modello”. In 1902, a Danish immigrant A.C. Frost built the first residential house, the first general store and two schools, he later became the first postmaster.

The town was incorporated in November 1904, with 35 residents most of Danish decent. the name was changed. By 1912 Diana was thriving with 1200 people. The Frost family had success with growing tomatoes under the brand Love Apples along with other farmers would fill rail cars of fresh tomatoes were transported to the Northern cities. The town had 14 packing houses 2 canning factories and a tomato paste producer. Tomatoes evolved to a multi-million dollar business and Dania became known as the Tomato Capital of the world. Unfortunately there is no sign of tomato farms today but is a interesting fact.

At that time being a agricultural community there was no focus on the beach. The Roaring Twenties brought about the Florida Building Boom promoting ocean resorts such as Hollywood by the sea. After a devastating fire of 1926 Diana voted to be annexed with Hollywood but the that was short lived because by 1927 they resumed its own identity. In 1998 the city was renamed Dania Beach. Today the citie’s Motto is Sea it. Live it. Love it. and is appealing vacation spot with the Ft. Lauderdale Hollywood International airport being minutes away.

The Antique center along US 1 began in 1945, known as Antiques Row drew collectors from all over the country and nicknamed The Antique Capital of the South. There is still a good selection of Antique stores for the Antique aficionados.

The City of Dania Beach in 2020 had a population of 31,723 and is a major player in South Florida’s academic, marine, and tourism industries. and in very close to the International airport and the Port (Port Everglades). There is a casino with 900 Las Vegas-Style slot machines. Beautiful beach with a modern pair. Many good eateries and shopping areas. There is a lot to-do visitors and residents. Take a look at the images taken with a 45 year old camera on black and white film.

Enjoy