1896年的今天，迈阿密市建市。
1891年，俄亥俄州克利夫兰的一位名叫朱莉娅·塔特尔的女性在丈夫去世后，决定移居南佛罗里达，开启人生的新篇章。
她在迈阿密河北岸，即如今迈阿密市中心一带，购入了一片占地640英亩的土地。她曾试图说服铁路大亨弗拉格勒将其旗下的佛罗里达东海岸铁路向南延伸至该地区，但起初遭到拒绝。
1894年12月，佛州遭遇严寒霜冻，几乎所有的柑橘作物毁于一旦。但迈阿密地区未受影响。塔特尔邀请弗拉格勒造访该地区，并亲自看一看。考察后，弗拉格勒认定该地区具备拓展业务的绝佳条件。于是，他决定将铁路延伸至迈阿密，并在此兴建一家度假酒店。
1895年4月，达成协议：塔特尔将为铁路和城市建设奉送100英亩土地。同年9月，铁路工程动工，定居者开始蜂拥涌入这片被誉为“无霜冻之虞”的理想之地。1896年4月7日，铁路线终于延伸至迈阿密。
When I first learned about Miami's origins, I was genuinely inspired by Julia Tuttle's story, often hailed as the 'Mother of Miami.' It’s remarkable how her resilience and vision shaped the city’s future. After losing her husband, she took a brave step by moving from Cleveland to South Florida, investing in 640 acres north of the Miami River — land that would become downtown Miami. What stands out to me is her persistence in persuading Henry Flagler, a powerful railroad magnate, to extend the Florida East Coast Railway. Initially, he refused, but after severe frost devastated Florida's orange groves in 1894, Miami's frost-free climate became a compelling argument. Tuttle’s invitation for Flagler to witness the region firsthand sealed the deal. Flagler’s subsequent decision to build the railway and a resort hotel was transformative; it led to rapid settlement growth and economic opportunity. The agreement where Tuttle donated 100 acres to support railway and city infrastructure underscored her commitment to Miami’s development. This strategic partnership made Miami a major hub and a desirable place to live. Visiting Miami today, it's easy to forget the city's humble beginnings tied to one woman's determination and a railroad’s expansion. Her story emphasizes how individual vision and entrepreneurial spirit can influence urban growth. For anyone interested in history, urban development, or inspiring personal stories, Miami's founding offers a remarkable example of perseverance and collaboration shaping a city’s destiny.
