Korona, Florida

Korona, Florida is an unincorporated community in Flagler County, Florida, United States. It is located north northeast of Favoretta on US 1, at the shared intersection of CRs 2002 and 325, south of Bunnell. The community is part of the Deltona–Daytona Beach–Ormond Beach, FL metropolitan statistical area.

Korona, a town located approximately six miles south of Bunnell, traces its origins to the pioneering efforts of Polish immigrants who settled in the region. The Polish immigrants primarily hailed from major urban centers such as Chicago, Detroit, and other cities. Their journey to Korona was facilitated by the promotional campaigns of the Bunnell Development Company, which specially targeted this immigrant demographic through Polish-language advertisements. Notably, some of these historical advertisements can still be viewed at the Flagler County Historical Society Museum in Bunnell.

From 1914 to 1917, Korona was situated in the northern section of Volusia County. However, on April 28, 1917, a significant administrative change occurred when the northern section of Volusia County, including Korona, and the southern part of St. Johns County were incorporated into the newly established Flagler County. Today, Korona remains a picturesque unincorporated community in Flagler County.

Early Settlement and Development

Before embarking on their journey to Florida, a committee of Polish immigrants came together, raising $1,000 for the construction of a church in Korona. Their ethos was centered on principles of "God, Country, and Honor." This traditional motto underscored their deep-seated commitment to building a new life in the American South.

In the early days of 1914, the first wave of 35 Polish immigrant families arrived in Korona. Notable among them were families with names such as Stupecki, Waszewski, Strach, Trojanowski, Mazurewicz, Cyzycki, and others. Their initial task was to construct their homes and a duplex to serve as a residence for their priest, Reverend Father Andrew Baczyk. Interestingly, part of the priest's dwelling later became the town's first Post Office, established on April 27, 1918. The arrival of the Florida East Coast local train to deliver the mail pouch was a highlight of their day.

Izydor Waszewski was commissioned to build the town's church, and the inaugural Mass was celebrated with grandeur and ceremony. Mary Frankowiak, affectionately known as "Miss Mary," played the organ and sang during the Mass, as well as decorated the Altar for many years. Miss Mary passed away in 1968 and found her final resting place at St. Mary’s Church Cemetery in Korona.

Challenges and Progress

The early settlers faced several challenges, including poor drainage, a proliferation of mosquitoes, and a lack of infrastructure such as roads and farm tools. These hardships prompted some immigrants to return to their northern homes, but others persevered, determined to establish a livelihood. Over time, the dense vegetation gradually disappeared, more homes were constructed, and potato and vegetable crops played a pivotal role in bolstering the local economy. In subsequent years, many residents ventured into poultry farming.

In 1926, a significant landmark was introduced to Korona with the construction of The White Eagle Hotel by Barney Trojanowski. Commonly referred to as "Barney Trojan," the hotel provided living quarters for his family and accommodations for tourists on the upper floor. The ground floor featured a grocery store, feed store, and a real estate office. Later, the entire first floor was transformed into a beer garden with a spacious dance floor. This venue became a gathering place for the Polish community, hosting dances, church suppers, and club events. In 1959, The White Eagle Hotel was demolished to accommodate the expansion of U.S. Highway 1, but the spirit of the original establishment is preserved in the present-day White Eagle Bar in Korona, which stands close to the original location.

Religious and Community Developments

Before embarking on their journey to Korona, the Polish immigrants sought the construction of the church of St. Mary Catholic Church. The construction of St. Mary Catholic Church was overseen by Rev. Baczyk and executed by Izydor Waszwski. Completed in 1914, the church's sanctuary could accommodate 65 worshippers, and the first Mass was held on May 3 of the same year. Over the years, the church served not only as a place of worship but also as a hub for social and community gatherings. In the 1930s, two extensions were added to the rear of the building. In 1994, a larger and more modern building was constructed in the St. Mary Catholic Church complex that can accommodate up to 500 people. The original St. Mary Catholic Church is now used sparingly for baptisms, funerals, weddings, weekly mass and silent prayer services. It is the oldest standing church in Flagler County.

St. Christopher’s Shrine, located adjacent to the old church, was erected when Reverend Father C. Hoffman assumed the role of the resident pastor. His unwavering commitment and enthusiasm endeared him to the local population. The shrine was established as a gift to Korona and to travelers who sought the blessings of the Patron Saint of travelers.

St. Mary’s Parish was spiritually served by Redemptorist Priests from New Smyrna Beach until 1954. In that year, the parish was entrusted to the Diocesan Priests of St. Augustine, marking a significant shift in the town's religious leadership.

Today, Korona, Florida, stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of its early Polish immigrant settlers, who overcame significant challenges to establish a vibrant and close-knit community. The town's history is deeply intertwined with the enduring legacy of its Polish heritage.

References

• Deen, Sisco (2020). "Historic Locations in Flagler County", https://flaglercountyhistoricalsociety.com/korona/
• Jaye, Randy (2020). "Historical Papers", https://flaglercountyhistoricalsociety.com/koronas-historic-st-mary-catholic-church/