Although the American Civil War (1861-1865) hindered much of Pensacola’s early industrial growth, the city rebounded quickly once the war ended. Entrepreneurs from the northern United States saw great value in the area’s deep port and natural resources. By the late 1800s, industries in lumber, fishing, brickmaking, and naval stores flourished. New steam-powered ships and railroads helped move these goods nationally and internationally.

Pensacola’s industrial successes attracted people from around the world. Individuals and families arrived from places like Norway, Greece, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Portugal. Many of these new residents had valuable skills as sailors, merchants, and workmen. If you visited Pensacola in 1910, you would hear people speaking a wide variety of languages along the city’s waterfront streets, docks, and markets.