Green Cove Springs

Green Cove Springs is a city located along the west bank of the historic St. Johns River and since 1871 has served as the County Seat of Government for Clay County, Florida.

The city’s name originates from the three physical characteristics. “Green” refers to the perennially green vegetation characterized by its tree scape and foliage. “Cove” refers to a bend in the St. Johns River creating a safe area for mooring of boats during inclement weather periods. “Springs” refers to the natural spring (one of 600 in Florida), originating from the “Floridan Aquifer” with an estimated flow rate of approximately 2,200 gallons per minute. The spring water flows into the west side of the municipal swimming pool and then flows out the east side forming a stream eventually emptying into the St. Johns River.

A Cultural Resource Survey of Green Cove Springs was conducted to determine the existence of historically significant characteristics of properties and sites with the community. The completion of this survey found approximately 198 structures of historical significance contributing to the community’s early development. The major sites recognized in the National Register Districts are the former historic Clay County Courthouse, County Jail, Spring Park complex, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and Village Improvement Association. The Historical Triangle is home base for the former Historical Clay County Courthouse, County Jail (presently serves as the Clay County Archives and Research Center), the Clay County Historical Society’s History, and Railroad Museums. The remaining buildings within the two districts consist of commercial and residential structures attributable to the early development of Green Cove Springs. The current River Park Inn Bed and Breakfast reflects the last remaining connection to the many grand hotels of Green Cove Springs’ past era as a popular tourist destination. The current River Park Inn Bed and Breakfast building was formerly the Guest Cottage of the former Clarendon Hotel.