History Committee

The Historians

Longtime residents Pat Watkins (former Mayor) and Marcia Nielson, are affectionately known by the Village Clerk's Office as our "Historicals".  Pat and Marcia volunteer their time on many Friday mornings to organize, archive and preserve our Village's history.  You can hear these two ladies having a blast as they go through old photos and memorabilia.  You can tell from the laughter that they are truly enjoying the task at hand.  

You can find electronic archived records online via our History archive or you can make an appointment and view archived memorabilia. To make an appointment, contact 561-768-0445.   

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: 

TEQUESTA REMEMBERS : HISTORIC MARKERS IN THE VILLAGE

Public Services Facility 

136 Bridge Rd, is dedicated to Russell K. White, who served in the Public Works Dept. for 36 years

Public Works Russell White

9-1-1- Memorial

Village Green, 345 Tequesta Drive.  Inspired by the heroes of the 9-11 attack, sponsored by Friends of Public Safety and dedicated to Council Member Jim Humpage. 

9-1-1 Memorial

Constitution Park Playground

Constitution Park playground dedicated in 1996 to Christina Holt, a victim of child abuse.

Chrstina Holt Memorial

Emergency Operations Center

Located in the Public Safety Building, 357 Tequesta Drive, dedicated to Council Member Joseph N. Capretta who served 16 years on the Council.


Gold Star Families Memorial

Located at the Constitution Park flagpole.   Dedicated in 2019, “A tribute to Gold Star Families whose loved ones paid the ultimate price defending the USA; their sacrifice will not be forgotten”. 

Gold Star Families

Village Green Fountain

Located on the Village Green, 345 Tequesta Drive.  Transformed by Council Member Carlton Stoddard (1980-1987) into Fountain of Honor with residents’ names. 

Fountain_Carlton Stoddard

Map of Village Memorials

Map of Village Memorials

Be a Part of Tequesta's History

Assist us in gathering items for the displays. Should you have copies or preferably original memorabilia that can be maintained for historical purposes by the Village please contact Mary Ann Grieser at 561-768-0445. Should you have items of interest but would prefer not to donate them, we can copy and return them to you. Additionally, if you would like to provide an audio interview of your experiences as a Tequesta resident, the Clerk's Office would be happy to schedule a time to record your memoirs. 

Historical Artifact

Please complete the Historical Artifact form and return it to the Village Clerk's Office. For additional information, contact 561-768-0445