During the Great Depression, many rural families struggled to survive. New Deal programs, such as the Farm Security Administration (FSA), supported small farmers with loans and education. The government also launched efforts to conserve soil and protect wetlands, recognizing the ecological importance of the St. Johns River basin.
World War II accelerated change. Many young men left the countryside for military service or factory work in cities. After the war, suburban expansion began to encroach upon rural lands, but St. Rural retained its agricultural core—particularly in potato farming, dairy production, and timber harvesting.
The mid-century also saw the rise of rural tourism. Visitors from across the United States sought the “Old Florida” charm of St. Augustine’s countryside, staying in farm cottages and exploring scenic byways lined with moss-draped oaks.
Environmental Awakening and Land Preservation
By the 1970s, the environmental movement brought renewed attention to Florida’s fragile ecosystems. Rural St. Johns County, with its rivers, marshes, and farmlands, became a focus for conservation efforts.
Organizations such as the St. Johns River Water Management District and local historical societies began preserving natural and cultural heritage sites. Farmers and conservationists worked together to maintain agricultural lands while protecting wildlife corridors and water quality.
The creation of state parks, wildlife refuges, and agricultural preserves helped ensure that St. Rural’s landscapes remained unspoiled by unchecked development. This balance between farming and conservation became a defining feature of the region.
Cultural preservation also flourished. Historic barns, farmhouses, and country churches were restored, celebrating the craftsmanship and traditions of earlier generations. Festivals, farmers’ markets, and craft fairs began to highlight the deep connection between land and community. shutdown123