One of the first of our many neighborhoods in The Heights was Old Seminole Heights. Located on the northern area of this community, it is borders are the Hillsborough River to the west and north and Hillsborough Ave to the south. The central portion of the neighborhood is located east of I-275. There is also a rectangular block including Suwanee Heights which extends south down Central Ave to MLK blvd.

Old Seminole Heights is the original neighborhood created as a suburb to downtown Tampa in the early 20th century. The area was originally developed by T Roy Young from a 40 acre allocation in 1911. More development quickly followed from 1912-1929, expanding the neighborhood down to MLK. The commute into town was facilitated by one of Tampa’s first cable cars that originally went down Central Ave. Typical homes were marketed at a price that started at $1,400. Many more homes were added in the 30’s-50’s to complete this community. The area has been a recipient of major renovation and renewed historical relevance since the beginning of this century.

In 2003, Southeast Seminole Heights was named Best Neighborhood in America by Neighborhoods, USA (NUSA). In July 2009, This Old House magazine ranked Seminole Heights among the best places to buy an old house for: families, green thumbs, cottages and bungalows, single women homebuyers, porch sitters, walkers, and the south. Overall, Seminole Heights was in the top eight of editors picks.

Old Seminole Heights has been recognized as a US Historic District since 1993 and is known for its early 20th century historic craftsman style bungalows. There are 325 private residences which are “contributing structures”, adding to the historical integrity or architectural quality of the area. Most were built of the bungalow and/or American Craftsman style of architecture.

There are 6 city parks located in Old Seminole Heights (Central) including the Seminole Heights Garden Center which offers a venue for weddings and other social gatherings. Other parks offer athletics, children’s facilities, dog walking and recreation.

The Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association serves its residents, businesses and friends with established community organizations and neighborhood watch initiatives. OSHNA hosts a signature annual tour of historic homes in the area as well as supports various art and improvement projects for the community including painted streets, murals and landscaping efforts. To learn more check out www.OSHNA.org and numerous social sites on Facebook!