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Ocala, Florida

Located in Marion County, Florida, Ocala was established in 1846. Known as the 'Horse Capital of the World' with over 1,200 horse farms. Silver Springs is one of Florida's oldest tourist attractions.
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Founded 1846 | Population 68,000 | Peak 68,000 (2024) | County Marion County

Top 10 Most Important Events for Ocala, Florida

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1846Founded: Named for Timucuan chief.
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1861Railroad Era: Railroad connections spurred growth and commerce in Ocala.
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1943Horse Country: Thoroughbred horse farms established.
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2010Modern Era: Ocala continued to develop as part of the region, with new infrastructure and community amenities.
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Latest News in Ocala

Feb 20, 2026
Grandpa Opens Fire On Armed Criminals During Home Invasion – His Granddaughter Orchestrated The Whole Heist
Among those arrested was the homeowner’s granddaughter, the orchestrator of the crime.
Feb 20, 2026
Dad And Son Charged With 216 Counts Of Incest, Pay The Price
A father and son in West Virginia has been charged with over 216 counts of incest, sexual assault and sexual abuse that involved t…
Feb 20, 2026
Trump Admin Mocked Over This Small Detail In Venezuela ‘Situation Room’ Photo
In the wake of a bold and controversial U.S. military operation in Venezuela…

Complete Historical Timeline

1846 Culture
Founded
1861 Transport
Railroad Era
1943 Business
Horse Country
2010 Culture
Modern Era

Did You Know?

1
Known as the 'Horse Capital of the World' with over 1,200 horse farms.
2
Silver Springs is one of Florida's oldest tourist attractions.
3
Marion County has more horses than any other county east of the Mississippi.
4
Ocala was founded in 1846.
5
Ocala has a population of approximately 68,000.

Famous People from Ocala, Florida

EA
Elizabeth Ashley
Stage Actor, Television Actor · Born Aug 30, 1939 · Age 86
EJ
Erin Jackson
Speed Skater, Inline Speed Skater · Born Sep 19, 1992 · Age 33
BB
Brittany Bowe
Basketball Player, Speed Skater · Born Feb 24, 1988 · Age 38
BM
Buddy MacKay
Lawyer, Politician · Born Mar 22, 1933 · Died Dec 31, 2024 (age 91)
PO
Patrick O'Neal
Stage Actor, Restaurateur · Born Sep 26, 1927 · Died Sep 9, 1994 (age 66)
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