WEWAHITCHKA, FLORIDA

Located in the heart of Florida's Panhandle, Wewahitchka is a small city in northeastern Gulf County.

With a population of approximately 2,074, Wewahitchka offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life in much of the rest of Florida. 

Wewahitchka Welcome Sign

Wewahitchka is located at the intersection of Florida State Roads 71 and 22. State Road 71 connects the city northward to Blountstown (27 miles) and southward to Port St. Joe (24 miles). State Road 22 leads west to Panama City, approximately 28 miles away.

Wewahitchka Dead Lakes

The city lies just west of the Chipola River and southwest of the Dead Lakes, a unique and picturesque body of water formed by the confluence of the Chipola and Apalachicola Rivers.  

The area now known as Wewahitchka has been inhabited for thousands of years.

Indigenous peoples, including the Apalachee and later the Creek Indians, settled along the rivers in the region, utilizing the abundant natural resources for fishing, hunting, and agriculture. 

In the early 1830s, settlers established Fort Place, also known as Richard's Fort, approximately five miles south of present-day Wewahitchka.

Fishing Lodge on Dead Lakes in 1968
FloridaMemory

This fort served as a precursor to the town, which was officially named Wewahitchka in 1875 by Reverend John W. Richards.

The name "Wewahitchka" is derived from a Native American term meaning "water eyes," referencing the twin lakes—Lake Alice and Lake Julia—that resemble eyes when viewed from above. 

Take a look at the Google map at the end of this article and you will see the twin lakes staring up at you.

Beekeeper

Early settlers in the area engaged in various industries, including citrus groves, apiaries for honey production, livestock farming, and timber harvesting.

The town was officially founded in 1875.

The first newspaper in the area, the Calhoun Times, was established in 1883, marking the growth of a burgeoning community.

Old Gulf County Courthouse in Wewahitchka
Wikipedia, photo by Ebyabe

Wewahitchka served as the county seat of Gulf County from its founding in 1925 until 1965 when it was moved to Port St. Joe.

Wewahitchka Lake Grove Postcard

Note on Postcard:  Located on nationally famous Dead Lakes, the extent of which is 80 square miles.

The Lakes provide the fresh water fisherman with boundless and inexhaustible opportunity to test his skill. Hunting, too, at Dead Lakes is excellent.

Today, Wewahitchka maintains its small-town atmosphere while offering a range of amenities and attractions.

The city is perhaps best known for its production of Tupelo honey, a rare and highly prized variety harvested from the blossoms of the Tupelo tree found in the surrounding swamps.

Cypress in Dead Lakes

While Wewahitchka may not boast large shopping centers, it offers a selection of local businesses that cater to both residents and visitors. Notable establishments include:

• Randy's Discount Grocery: A local store offering a variety of goods at affordable prices.
  
  
• Pearl Apparel: A boutique featuring clothing and accessories.
  
  
• WeWa Ace Hardware:  Ace is my favorite hardware store wherever I'm visiting.

Wewahitchka First Presbyterian Church

• First Presbyterian Church:  Originally an Episcopal Church, this structure is a classic Carpenter Gothic Church and a historic treasure.
  
  
• Dollar General:  A place for bargain items at modest prices.
  
  
• David Rich's IGA:  A grocery store with a large collection of food items and other stuff.
  
  
• L.L. Lanier and Sons Tupelo Honey.  This family business has been producing Tupelo Honey since 1898.

For those interested in antiques and thrift shopping, nearby towns such as Port St. Joe and Panama City offer additional options.

Cypress Stumps in Dead Lakes

• Dead Lakes Recreation Area
  A haven for nature enthusiasts, offering fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching amidst hauntingly beautiful cypress stumps.
  
  
• Tupelo Honey Festival
  An annual event celebrating the region's famous honey, featuring local vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities.  Takes place the third Saturday in May.

• Lake Alice Park
  A scenic spot perfect for picnics, walking, and enjoying the serene lake views.  Tupelo Honey Festival is held here.
  
  
• Gaskin Park Boat Ramp
  Provides access to the Chipola River for boating and fishing adventures.
  
  
• Lands Landing
  A popular spot for launching boats and exploring the Dead Lakes.
  
  
• T.L. James Park
  Features recreational facilities, including sports fields and playgrounds.
  
  
• Jehu Cemetery
  A historic cemetery offering insights into the area's past and its early settlers.  Google says it's permanently closed but I assume that means no more burials are possible.
  
  
• New Beginning Life and Praise Thrift Shop
  Offers a variety of second-hand items, supporting community initiatives.
  

 ALL ABOUT WEWAHITCKA, FLORIDA

WEWAHITCHKA RESTAURANTS

WEWAHITCHKA MOTELS/INNS

WEWAHITCHKA REAL ESTATE

CITY OF WEWAHITCHKA