There are a number of resources better than Lucy’s web site here. She’s only used to sniffing around at ground level as the “two-leggeds” go about their fun in The Villages.
Lake Sumter Landing (Cherry Lake)
Cherry lake was basically very shallow, and a considerable portion consisted of a peat bog. The bog was mined over the years, well into the 90’s; the last group, I believe under the name of “Black Gold”. After purchasing, it the Developer finished hollowing out the bog and other areas forming “Lake Sumter”. Some of the material dug out was used to build up the Lake Sumter Landing commercial district and residential areas adjacent to the lake. The progression of this can be seen on the large annual aerial maps on display in the Rohan Rec Center. The commercial CDD owns it and all the land immediately around it, and thus it is “privately owned”. Only Developer approved/authorized activities are allowed. All structures into the lake are developer owned via the commercial CDD. No private piers, no fishing, except the franchised charter, no boats except for the franchised tours and the Villages dragon boat clubs, no operating of model boats etc. I assume the lake is also part of the area’s water management system.
The “Historic Area”
The Villages got its start North of Rt 441 in an area that today is known by three villages (Silver Lake, Orange Blossom Gardens and Country Club Hills). I was told that the current Hilltop executive golf course was at one time a downhill driving range.
Pickleball
Pickleball (as of 2023) is a huge, growing sport worldwide. But did you know that pickleball was invented in 1965 up in Washington State. The Villages constructed its first pickleball court the same year at La Hacienda recreation center. There are over 200 pickleball courts in 24 different locations within The Villages. Read more <HERE>
