As the nation marks its 250th anniversary, Bradenton is marking its 123rd, with “America 250/Bradenton 123” banners on display throughout downtown.
The city takes its name from Joseph Braden, who established an 1,100-acre plantation about 1846 on the west bank of what is now the Braden River, according to Manatee Village Historical Park.
Residents voted 59-34 to incorporate in 1903. A clerical error on the post office application spelled the name “Braidentown,” later corrected to “Bradentown.”
In 1924, a local businessman told the Manatee River Kiwanis Club that the 14.4-square-mile town would always feel small until it dropped the “w.” The Legislature approved the change, and Bradentown became Bradenton, “The Friendly City.”
The city went on to become home to Tropicana Products, the Bealls department store chain and Pittsburgh Pirates spring training. Attractions include the Village of the Arts, the Riverwalk, LECOM Park, the Manatee Performing Arts Center, Manatee Village Historical Park and the Bishop Museum.