Bartow: A Gem Near the Peace River

Situated close to the source of the Peace River, Bartow lies approximately 39 miles (63 km) east of Tampa, Florida, and 50 miles (80 km) southwest of the Greater Orlando area. The city finds itself at the heart of “Lightning Alley,” experiencing frequent afternoon thunderstorms during the summer months. However, its winters are typically sunny and mild.

Government, mining, and agriculture form the backbone of Bartow’s economy. The city’s primary arteries include U.S. Route 17, U.S. Route 98, and State Road 60, providing convenient access to various locations across Central Florida.

City of Oaks and Azaleas: Bartow proudly bears this official nickname. Within its boundaries, three districts are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Notable landmarks include the Old Polk County Courthouse, constructed in 1909, and Bartow High School, formerly known as Summerlin Institute—the oldest high school in the county.

A Century of Growth: By the turn of the century, Bartow had surpassed both Miami and West Palm Beach in population, becoming the most populous city south of Tampa on the Florida peninsula. As the city expanded, numerous industries set up shop in the Bartow area. In the early 1900s, thousands of acres surrounding the city were acquired by the phosphate industry. Since the discovery of phosphate rock in 1881, phosphate mining has played a pivotal role in Bartow’s economy. Polk County, part of the Bone Valley, boasts the world’s richest source of phosphate rock. An impressive 75% of the United States’ supply and 25% of the world’s supply originate from this region. The Mosaic company, employing over 3,000 people, stands as the largest employer in the phosphate industry.

Government at the Helm: Bartow’s economic engine is fueled by city, county, and state government. As a small city serving as the county seat for over half a million residents, Bartow hosts an unusually high number of government jobs while maintaining an efficient and cost-effective tax structure. Additionally, the city houses several regional, state, and federal offices.

Bartow’s rich history, economic diversity, and natural beauty make it a captivating corner of Central Florida.