North Lake County Florida Civil War Roundtable Online

Now Available In Soft Cover...... "Florida's Forgotten Pioneer: The Gallant Captain Melton Haynes" By: Bob Grenier Click Below to Order a Copy of the Book...

Inspired by a dilapidated, yet distinguished, wooden home built in 1871 on the shore of Lake Harris in Florida's Lake County, a journey began into rediscovering the life of the Gallant Captain Melton Haynes.

Like so many men and women with vision and courage to venture into an uncertain world, Melton Haynes has fallen into the "forgotten" pages of history.

Available now, my book Florida's Forgotten Pioneer: The Gallant Captain Melton Haynes tells the story of a man who was beloved and respected by all those who knew him. Now, you too will find, and share, that respect and admiration for a man we all should know.

Credited with introducing the "sweet orange" to the lush, green wilderness of Florida's Lake Region in 1845. He served Florida both in the State Senate and House Representatives. He was a Civil War cavalry officer commanding the 5th Battalion, Company H attached to the command of Florida's famous "Swamp Fox", Captain J.J. Dickison.

Statesmen, Civil Engineer, Surveyor, Distinguished Citizen, and more than that ...loving father, devoted husband, and trusted friend.

His untimely death brought such great sorrow to the citizens of Florida. A reporter later writes, "The funeral procession at Yalaha was the largest ever seen in south Florida." This is surely a testament to the Gallant Captain, who lived his life with courage, dignity, and honor.

Relive, rediscover, and remember the life of this fascinating Captain who helped tame the wild, treacherous interior landscape of Florida. He is deserving of the "remembered? pages of history.

Captain Melton Haynes

Circa 1868

Woodlea Home

Built by Captain Haynes in 1871.

After 135 years in its original location, it has been moved to a new location in Tavares for preservation.

(Click on thumbnail to ENLARGE)

Haynes Grave Site in Yalaha, FL

Moving Day for Woodlea November 30, 2005

If you recognize a name on this roster, and have any information regarding them... please e-mail Bob Grenier

I am also available to speak about Captain Melton Haynes at club meetings, organizational events, banquets, as well as any other events. Just contact me via e-mail or telephone