The community of Roseland is a tiny treasure, tucked away in North Indian River County along the banks of the serpentine St. Sebastian River. Home to fewer than 2,000 people, many who value its historic old-Florida character, it is threatened by 21st Century demolish-and-rebuild development.
Established in 1892, Roseland has never been incorporated, but is “census-designated” within a 3.2-square-mile area, of which 1.2 square miles are water.
From its founding until now, the little town has been home to an eclectic assortment of Crackers, snowbirds, artists, writers, retirees, under-the-radar celebs and folks who just want to slow down and smell the roses.
Since the 1970’s, what is now called the Roseland Community Association has worked with fierce determination to preserve the special character of “Historic Roseland.” Jackie James, its energetic and effervescent president, spoke in her husky, wonderfully southern voice about the all-volunteer group of roughly 200 members. “We’re big on history and the environment. Our mission is to preserve the historic integrity of Roseland, maintain the quality of life, promote a peaceful way of life and protect the community of Roseland!”
Members work closely with other like-minded groups sharing a dedication to historic and environmental preservation, including Friends of the St. Sebastian River, the River Coalition and the Sebastian Historic Society. Its members support the Clambake, the Pelican Island Wildlife Festival and Adopt-A-Highway clean-ups.
The Association was instrumental in getting Roseland Road designated a Scenic Byway, and a member represents Roseland at County Commission meetings.
County Historian Ruth Stanbridge is a strong supporter.
A major accomplishment was working with the county and then County Commissioner Fran Adams to form a Roseland Task Force. Over about two years, the task force created a Neighborhood Plan, establishing two corridors – Roseland Road and U.S. 1 – to improve the community with lighting, signage and other aspects, while maintaining its unique character.
Roseland was also given a voice whenever new development was proposed.
The group ensured a 30-foot buffer was maintained along airport property and persuaded the county to swap scheduled plans for formal landscaping at the Roseland transfer station entrance for more casual, native plantings.
It also established a Roseland access to conservation land along the FEC tracks.
James remembers when the possibility of a North County swimming pool was discussed, the association lobbied vigorously for the pool.
“We have been able to help make a lot of improvements,” says James. “People have pride of ownership. And the county has been so helpful – they see us trying to do something to improve our surroundings.”
Recalling the time the county considered widening Roseland Road, she says, “Holly Dill was with us then, too. Well, we got hysterical – and stopped it.”
Later, when someone wanted to put a pawn shop along Roseland Road, one of the county planners remarked that “if you do it, you’re going to have a roomful of Roseland women to deal with.”
“You bet,” says James. “If things go against our grain, we band together – or they might just bulldoze forever, ‘til there’s nothing left.”
The board meets monthly throughout the year, and the general membership meets monthly from September through May. Membership meetings include a brief business segment and a guest speaker.
Dues are $8 a year and, says James, “You don’t have to live here. You just have to love Roseland.”
On Oct. 18, noon to 3 p.m., the Association will host Roseland’s annual fundraiser and 122nd birthday party, at the Old Roseland Volunteer Fire Department on 129th Court.
Food will be provided by Joanie Reed, a Wabasso Disney Resort chef. There will be music by the Atlantic Bluegrass Band.
Admission at the door is $10 for adults, $5 for kids 12 and under.
Proceeds go toward scholarships for Roseland graduates and, if funds allow, to Roseland families in need.
