Historical Summary
The Village of Tequesta was incorporated on June 4, 1957 by real estate developer Charlie Martyn. Mr. Martyn purchased 86 acres of land known as Jupiter Inlet Colony. He then created Waterway VIllage and finally developed the Tequesta Country Club on 350 acres - 600 home sites.
During the Village's first official council meeting held on July 10, 1957, the following representatives were appointed:
- Mayor John Kurtz, Jr.
- Vice-Mayor C. W. Pietz
- Tax Assessor, Albert Alderman
- Tax Collector, Thomas Daly
- Village Clerk, Walter Lathrop
During this meeting, the council agreed to borrow $8,100 for expenses at a rate not to exceed 6%.
While excavating the Jupiter Inlet Colony area, an Indian mound with various artifacts was discovered. It was determined the encampment to be a strong Tequesta Indian tribe from South Florida who encroached on the nomadic Jeagas inhabiting the area at the time. Although historical authorities disputed his Tequesta theory, Martyn was convinced of its authenticity and in his own mind proved that point by naming our beloved village “Tequesta”.
For in-depth information on the Village's history, peruse our two anniversary publications: