The San Marco Preservation Society (SMPS) was formed in 1975 as a non-profit corporation to protect the integrity of San Marco’s residential neighborhood and to enhance the revitalization of its business district. Its many active members have succeeded in keeping the old-world charm and character of San Marco intact. SMPS currently has more than 600 members. Its boundaries are I-95 to the north, Greenridge Road to the south, Philips Highway on the east and the St. Johns River on the west.

Originally a farm on the banks of the St. Johns River, the area now known as San Marco was called Oklahoma. One of the most prominent citizens of Oklahoma was Harrison Reed, who was elected Florida’s governor in 1868 and 1873. Reed’s sister, Margaret Reed Mitchell and her husband, Wisconsin railroad tycoon Alexander Mitchell, fell in love with Oklahoma and built their winter home, Villa Alexandria, on 140 acres on the river. By 1872, the palatial estate included a mansion (near the present corner of River Road and Arbor Lane), barns, tennis courts, a swimming pool, polo field, more than 2000 orange trees, bridle paths and formal gardens. By 1873, Mrs. Mitchell was one of Jacksonville’s most influential women and was active in many charitable causes.
Call Gunilla Craven Broker 904-514-4717