Lakewood Ranch: A Legacy of Living with the Land tells the never before found story of Lakewood Ranch, a community that encapsulates the American spirit of innovation, stewardship, and intentional growth. Located in Southwest Florida, this master-planned community's journey from rural ranchland to a model of modern suburban living provides readers with a unique perspective on community building, sustainable development, and environmental care.
Weaving together personal tales, historical accounts, media coverage, and strategic insights, the book unfolds the Uihlein and Schroeder families as they followed the ambitions that laid the groundwork for Lakewood Ranch. With roots stretching back to German and American entrepreneurial success, the Uihleins brought their family legacy of brewing and banking to bear upon a swathe of Florida land destined to become more than just pastures and orchards. The Schroeders were well-respected for quality and integrity in the timber business.
The narrative is enriched by detailed chronicles of key players, such as Mary Fran Carroll, a formidable force in SMR's Board of Directors, whose business acumen and resolve set Lakewood Ranch on its path to becoming the #1 multi-generational community in the U.S. The pioneering work of John Clarke and the strategic thinking of Rex Jensen further bolstered the Ranch's trajectory, underlining the importance of strong leadership and clear vision in realizing a community's full potential.
Readers are invited into the world of Lakewood Ranch's residents-both past and present-whose lives and experiences embody the community's ethos. It's a place where traditions are honored and innovation is embraced. Home to many who proudly display a commitment to the arts, culture, competition, and environmental conservation.
From the meticulously planned Main Street to the acres of protected natural habitats, from the top-tier educational institutions to the inclusive community events, this book illustrates how thoughtful design, commitment to excellence, and an unwavering focus on quality can forge not just a place to live, but a way to live.
Above all, this book is evidence of the power of community and the enduring belief that a dedicated group of people can indeed shape a better future. Whether it's through the community's response to the Great Financial Crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic or its ongoing efforts to protect natural resources, the narrative captures the resilient spirit and innovative mindset that define life on the Ranch.
This is more than just a local history or a developer's chronicle. It is a source of inspiration for anyone interested in the creation and nurturing of a community. It's an essential read for urban planners, city councils, and anyone interested in the intersection of development and sustainability. As such, it belongs on the shelves of both professionals and casual readers alike who seek inspiration in the power of place-making and the potential of mindful development.
