A City Constructed on Phosphate and Abundant in Beautiful Nature! Mulberry is a city located in Polk County, Florida. It is historically recognized for its industry and being surrounded by nature. The city is a good combination of a village and a place for recreation. It serves as a good site for locals and tourists. In Mulberry, people can find vibrant parks along with a supportive community, making it a delightful place to relax.
Historical Overview of Mulberry, Florida
Early Settlement
In the 1840s, Mulberry was first settled by pioneers who were attracted to the area due to its thick forests made of longleaf yellow pine. Over time, logging became the primary industry in the area as it provided timber for both the construction of structures and the trade. In addition to the natural resources, the area’s strategic location made it an attractive settlement for other pioneers wishing to establish a new home.
Mulberry was named after a large mulberry tree, which served as an informal mail drop where letters could be exchanged easily. In addition to serving as a mail drop, this tree also served as a central meeting point, which improved the sense of connection and unity among the residents of the town.
Development and Phosphate Industry
Phosphate rock was first discovered in the Mulberry area near the Peace River in 1886. This started a major shift in the area from logging to mining. With the Bone Valley, known for its multitude of phosphate deposits, bordering the town, it automatically became an industrial center. With the railroad arriving, transportation of phosphate became much easier, which led to further economic development in Mulberry.
Founding
In 1901, the placing of Mulberry’s town boundaries allowed the town to be governed, facilitating its growth and development. This officially appointed Mulberry, a town in Polk County, Florida.
Mulberry began to develop rapidly in the early 20th century as it became a focusing area for phosphate mining. Its strategic location, along with rich deposits of phosphate, led to an increase in businesses and workers, which contributed to the economic prosperity of the town and the expansion of the community.
Economic Growth
Since phosphate was found in the Peace River in 1886, Mulberry’s economy grew. The town’s strategic location within the Bone Valley, known for having plenty of phosphate and other minerals, attracted many mining companies. With the establishment of the railroad, the transport of phosphate became much easier, and Mulberry’s economy grew. This established Mulberry as the center of the phosphate industry.
Demographics of Mulberry, Florida: Age Groups and Ethnic Diversity
Mulberry is a city that is in Polk County Florida. Based on the World Population Review, the Mulberry population in 2024 is 4473. The region has recorded an annual increase in population by 2.92%. As per the last census in 2020, with a recorded population of 3964, Mulberry’s population has grown by nearly 12.84% and is estimated to have surged until late 2024.
Age Group Distribution In Mulberry
| Children under 18 | 16.4% |
| Adults 18-44 | 35.7% |
| Adults 45-64 | 13.4% |
| Seniors 65 and older | 34.5% |
Mulberry Ethnic Demographics
Information taken from World Population Review shows that this is the current Ethnic Demographic of Mulberry, Florida.
| White | 75.8% |
| Black or African American | 11.67% |
| Other race | 6.29% |
| Two or more races | 4.03% |
| Asian | 2.21% |
| Native American | 0% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 0% |
Local Attractions and Locations to Visit in Mulberry, Florida
Mulberry, Florida, might be a small city, but it has attractions for everyone, including history buffs and nature enthusiasts. From mouths that focus on the rich phosphate mining history to parks with recreational activities, Mulberry is unique in its blend of education and relaxation.
Mulberry Phosphate Museum
Now found in the old train depot, the Mulberry Phosphate Museum holds Mulberry phosphate mining history in detail. Fossils from prehistoric animals, mining equipment, and other historic memorabilia are all part of the exhibit. One highlight is the vintage phosphate locomotive from the 1880s that is stationed outside the museum. Now the museum illustrates the geological and industrial importance of phosphate within central Florida.
Mulberry Cultural Center
The Phosphate Museum’s opposite side features the Mulberry Cultural Center, which opened in 2015. The center offers exhibits from all over Florida and also hosts monthly classes that enrich different disciplines for people of all ages. This place serves as the center for art, history, and community events, and as such, it plays an important role in the further development of the culture of the city.
Loyce E. Harpe Park
On the other side of Mulberry is Loyce E. Harpe Park, which is best suited for people who love doing activities outside. The park contains mountain biking trails, walking and running paths, sports fields, and even a park for dogs. The park serves as a recreation area for people and families looking to spend time in the natural environment. In addition to this, the park provides a place to fish as well as playgrounds for young children.
Se7en Wetlands Park
Se7en Wetlands Park is reachable through Loyce E. Harpe Park, which features an extensive constructed treatment wetlands sprawling over 1,640 acres. The park includes more than 8.5 miles of trails for hiking, running, bird watching, and nature photography. The park is home to uplands, marshes, and lakes that create opportunities for wildlife watching and cognition of Florida’s nature.
Bone Valley ATV Park
Bone Valley ATV Park has 15 trails of assorted difficulty levels, free-riding zones, and slopes for motocross and ATVs. The park covers 200 acres, which serves as a training ground and picnic area, catering to off-road mother nature lovers who wish to feel the excitement of riding in controlled environments.
Alafia River Reserve
Alafia River Reserve allows walking, birding, and picnicking during wetlands across 334 acres. The site is great for observing and appreciating Florida’s untouched nature. The Reserve’s trails go across fragmented rural gravitates, allowing people to disengage from their busy lives.
Spence Field
One of the best parks in Mulberry, Florida, is Spence Field, which features soccer fields, picnic areas, and playgrounds that provide a good day out for families. The park has activities throughout the year for residents to enjoy, which helps build community among those who live and visit the region.
Local Economy and Employment Opportunities
Data USA’s research shows that Mulberry, Florida, gained 42 people from 2021 to 2022, growing to 3,962 residents. This marks a percent change of 1.07 percent. At the same time, the median household income grew from $44,702 to $50,645, which is a substantial increase as well.
Local Businesses in Mulberry
Badcock Home Furniture And More
Alongside its specialization in home furnishing, it has grown into one of the largest family-owned businesses in the Southeast after being set up in Mulberry in 1904. One of its divisions is in Home Furnishings, which includes appliances and electronics. With the expansion in its reach, Badcock is now known as a brand in the region due to its quality and affordability.
Mosaic Company
The company manages large-scale phosphate mining alongside the production of fertilizers, it is one of the largest employers in Mulberry. The facility construction is a contribution towards the local economy as it also funds the job opportunities that Mosaic provides in engineering, environmental safety, logistics, and operations, making it a staple company in the region.
Mulberry Railcar Repair Company
Supported by the phosphate business, Mulberry Railcar Repair Company offers railcar maintenance, professional repairs, and cleaning services. These services aid in bolstering the transportation sector within Mulberry. Their services specialize in the railcars utilized in freight transportation. All of Florida’s industrial rail network is operable and efficient by the Wrkforce of the company.
Southeastern Construction and Maintenance, Inc.
This company constructs and maintains different services located in Mulberry, which cater to the entire state’s business needs. With a revenue of over $36 million annually, the company provides construction services, fabrication, and industrial maintenance. As a critical part of the region’s manufacturing industry, the company grows with infrastructure development in the area. Southeastern is also a well-known manufacturing and industrial services servicer in the state.
Danielle Fence Manufacturing Company, Inc.
Since 1976, Danielle Fence Manufacturing has expanded to become one of the chief fence providers in Florida. The company designs and builds residential, commercial, and industrial fences, making them a one-stop shop for all structures. Thanks to their innovative designs and wide customer base, the company is ideal for any homeowner or business looking to have a stylish yet durable fence.
Harbor Roofing
Harbor Roofing is a reputable service provider for residential and commercial roofing in Florida. Their area of specialization includes roof repairs, installations, inspections, and maintenance, which guarantees superior workmanship and quality solutions. Since customer satisfaction is their priority, Harbor Roofing offers personalized roofing services that are sculpted to each client’s specifications. From new roof installations to urgent repairs, they are dependable, effective, and have great repute in the business.
Best Schools in Mulberry, Florida
Willow Oak School
Willow Oak School serves students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. The school emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster academic excellence and personal growth. With a focus on creating a nurturing learning environment, Willow Oak School aims to meet the diverse needs of its student body.
Purcell Elementary School
From pre-k till grade 5, Purcell Elementary School provides education as one of the elementary schools in the area. Purcell Elementary aims to capture the students’ enthusiasm towards education through different activities and opportunities while strengthening their academics and social skills.
Mulberry Middle School
For students in sixth to eighth grade, Mulberry Middle School adopts a blended approach to teaching with core subjects and added electives. The school emphasizes critical thinking, resolution, and problem-solving skills to help students transition to high school. It encourages activities outside the classroom to create a well-rounded middle school experience.
Mulberry Senior High School
For grades 9-12, Mulberry Senior High School offers various academic and extracurricular activities. With the inclusion of AP courses and multiple career and technical education pathways, the school helps students become successful after finishing their education. Brilliant Minds Early Learning Academy strives to maintain an environment where students can actively learn and perform well.
Brilliant Minds Early Learning Academy
This Private Academy serves Kindergarten through 5th grade and emphasizes Early Childhood Education. The academy stresses a Christian-based curriculum as well as moral development. The low student-to-teacher ratio ensures that every child is properly nurtured for development.
Mulberry Christian Academy
Mulberry Christian Academy is a k-12 private school. It is connected with the church of God, so the academy teaches biblical elements through the curriculum. The centralized aim of the institution is to provide integrated education to develop the student spiritually, socially, and academically for the future.
Ready to Visit Mulberry, Florida?
Mulberry, Florida, is a captivating city that boasts a beautiful landscape along with a great history, making it a brilliant place for residents and visitors. The city’s history with phosphate mining brought the town industrial life, which it immerses its visitors in, but also offers outdoor activity with parks, trails, and nature preserves. Whether you are looking to explore the Mulberry Phosphate Museum, grab a bite at local eateries, or engage in outdoor activities, the city never fails to impress its locals and tourists through its hospitality and cohesive community vibe.