The city’s founders invested in infrastructure, including docks, warehouses, and a rudimentary road network. Early residents included timber workers, merchants, and entrepreneurs seeking to capitalize on the bay’s navigability and the growing demand for lumber and seafood.
Timber Industry and Economic Foundations
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Panama City’s economy was dominated by the timber and lumber industry. Dense pine forests surrounding St. Andrews Bay provided raw materials for sawmills, which became major employers. Timber was shipped from local docks to Gulf Coast ports, supporting construction and trade throughout the region.
Timber operations spurred related industries, including barrel making, boat building, and carpentry. Small businesses emerged to support workers, contributing to the growth of a stable community. The timber economy laid the foundation for Panama City’s early prosperity and regional significance.
Agriculture and Local Trade
Alongside timber, agriculture played an essential role. Settlers cultivated corn, cotton, citrus, and vegetables, while raising livestock for local consumption. The bay facilitated trade, allowing farmers to transport produce to nearby ports and towns.
Markets, general stores, and small trading posts developed along the waterfront, creating a commercial center that attracted more settlers. These early economic activities fostered a self-sustaining community capable of supporting population growth and municipal development. shutdown123