Jacksonville became a popular winter resort for the rich and famous back in the late 1800’s. Arriving by steamboat and by train, vacationers would enjoy the temperate weather of Florida in many of the grand hotels and resorts. Along with their trunks full of clothing and warm weather gear, came their money, helping to make Jacksonville a banking hub in the state of Florida. Headquarters of Atlantic National Bank, Barnett Bank and Florida National Bank were scattered on the downtown streets of Forsyth, Adams and Hogan. A branch of the Federal Reserve was added in later years.
In order to transfer cash money from one bank to another safely, the banks built a tunnel system underneath their buildings complete with vaults, lighted passageways and 18 inch thick steel reinforced walls. It is unusual for most Florida buildings to have a basement but the bluff on Forsyth, Adams and Laura streets is high enough for many of the buildings to have basements. The tunnels on these streets connect five buildings. Many of the tunnels have been closed but one is still used as a passage way between 121 and 200 West Forsyth Street.
We visited the tunnels on Jacksonville’s “Top to Bottom” Tour by AdLib Luxury Tours and Transportation. AdLib is running a special price of $15 for the two hour tour until March.
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| Our tour guide pointing out a small vault–notice the ceiling |
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| In the hallway leading to the tunnels is a pictorial history of the city |
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| Canisters of water found in the vault indicate that it could have been used as a bomb shelter at one time |
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| Items found inside safety deposit boxes |
Joy
