Florida Historical Markers Programs - Marker Detail

Description: Old School Square Historic District represents the initial footprint for the settlement and development of Delray Beach. The architectural and historical development that gave Delray Beach a prominent status in Palm Beach County can be seen in examples of turn- of-the-century frame architecture found along South Swinton Avenue such as the “Sundy House.” The 1902 structure was home to Delray Beach’s first mayor, John S. Sundy, who served for seven terms. The “Cathcart House,” at 38, was constructed in 1902 in the French Colonial Revival style. Two of the city’s earliest churches were also located in this area: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, where the original 1904 building remains, and the 1903 Methodist Church, where only the parsonage (also known as “The Rectory”) exists. The South Swinton Avenue corridor and neighboring NE/NW 1st Avenues contain examples of working class homes developed in the 1920s-1950s. East Atlantic Avenue contains the Rhoden Building at 2-4, which exemplifies an early block building, and the Masonic Temple at 44, which was used as a post office in the 1920s. The City’s largest historic district, Old School Square was locally designated in 1988 by the City of Delray Beach.