Pierson is a small town located in Volusia County. Its population was estimated to be around 1,680. The town is situated on the eastern side of the state, about 25 miles west of the Atlantic coast. The area around Pierson is known for its fertile farmland, and the town is often referred to as the “Fern Capital of the World” due to its extensive ferneries. Visitors to Pierson can enjoy outdoor recreational activities like hiking and fishing in nearby state parks or exploring the historic downtown area.
Fern Capital
Pierson, Florida, is known as the “Fern Capital of the World” due to its extensive ferneries and production of various species of ferns. The town has a long history of fern cultivation that began in the early 1900s when local farmers began growing ferns as a cash crop. The town’s favorable climate and soil conditions allowed for the successful cultivation of ferns, which eventually became a major industry in the area.
Today, Pierson is home to several nurseries and ferneries that supply ferns to markets all over the world. The town’s fern industry produces various types of ferns, including Boston ferns, bird’s nest ferns, and maidenhair ferns, among others. These ferns are popular decorative plants and are used in floral arrangements, landscaping, and as indoor plants.
Activities
1. Hiking and Fishing: The nearby state parks offer excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. Lake George State Forest and Tiger Bay State Forest are both popular destinations for hiking, fishing, and camping. There are also several lakes and rivers in the area for fishing and boating.
2. Historic Downtown: Pierson has a charming historic downtown area that is worth exploring. The area is home to several local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can take a stroll down Main Street and enjoy the town’s small-town charm.
3. Ferneries Tours: As mentioned earlier, Pierson is known as the Fern Capital of the World, and visitors can take tours of the town’s ferneries. These tours offer a unique look into the local fern industry and its history.
4. Golfing: There are several golf courses in the area, including Victoria Hills Golf Club and Deltona Club, which offer challenging courses and beautiful scenery.
5. Local Farms: Pierson is surrounded by farmland, and visitors can take tours of local farms and learn about agriculture in the area. Some farms offer u-pick opportunities for strawberries, blueberries, and other seasonal produce.
Events
1. Pierson Annual Fern Festival: Held every March, this festival celebrates Pierson’s status as the “Fern Capital of the World.” The event features live music, food vendors, and arts and crafts. Visitors can also take tours of the local ferneries, which offer a unique look at the town’s fern industry.
2. Pierson Farmers Market: Held every Saturday morning, this farmers market offers fresh, locally grown produce, as well as arts and crafts and live music. The market is a great place to meet local farmers and artisans and to support the town’s agricultural industry.
3. Pierson 4th of July Parade and Fireworks: This annual event features a parade through downtown Pierson, followed by a fireworks display at night. The parade includes floats, marching bands, and community groups, and is a fun way to celebrate the 4th of July with family and friends.
4. Volusia County Fair and Youth Show: Held every November, this fair is one of the largest in the state and features rides, games, and live entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy exhibits showcasing local agriculture and livestock, as well as arts and crafts from local artisans.
5. Pierson Christmas Parade: This annual parade takes place in early December and features festive floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself. The parade is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and to celebrate the season with the community.
Real Estate
1. Housing Market: The median home value in Pierson is around $117,000, which is significantly lower than the median home value for the state of Florida. Home prices in Pierson have been steadily increasing over the past few years, making it a good time for buyers to invest in the local real estate market.
2. Property Types: Pierson has a variety of property types available, including single-family homes, mobile homes, and vacant land. The town’s rural location makes it an ideal place for those looking for a quieter, more secluded lifestyle.
3. Property Sizes: The size of properties in Pierson varies widely, with some lots being less than an acre and others being several acres in size. The town’s rural setting and lower population density make it an attractive option for those looking for more space and privacy.
4. Property Values: Property values in Pierson are generally lower than those in nearby towns like DeLand and Daytona Beach. However, the town’s real estate market has been steadily improving, and buyers can find good value for their money in Pierson.
5. Real Estate Market Trends: The real estate market in Pierson has been experiencing steady growth over the past few years, with an increase in the number of homes sold and a rise in home prices. This trend is expected to continue as more people seek out the quiet, rural lifestyle that Pierson has to offer.