Sherwood Forest and Robin Hood

Originally platted around 1910, this Jacksonville neighborhood was largely developed between 1960 and 1980. Bound by the Trout River to the north and the Ribault on the south, it was named after a royal forest in Nottinghamshire, England, famous for its historic association with the legend of Robin Hood. Naturally, Sherwood Forest’s streets come with whimsical names after characters and places associated with Robin Hood stories. Thus, in this side of town, you’ll find streets going by the names of Castle, Devonshire, Foxboro, Donnybrook and Locksley.

Sweetwater and the Bible

If you’re into Christianity, Sweetwater may be the community for you. This section of southwest Jacksonville was settled by freed slaves after the Civil War. According to local folklore, its name came from a day when a barrel of syrup fell off a wagon into a stream in the vicinity. Nevertheless, nestled adjacent to Cedar Hills, its list of streets named after Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Ester and Moses are as biblical as you’ll find exploring the city.

Article by Ennis Davis, AICP. Contact Ennis at edavis@moderncities.com