11/02/2026
Today in Florida history, November 1, 1923!
Nathan Mayo was appointed the 5th Florida Commissioner of Agriculture on this date. Mayo moved to Ocala from North Carolina in 1886 and owned a number of agricultural-related businesses. He would became one of the longest serving Commissioners of Agriculture, serving until 1963 when he died while still in office. During his time in office, Mayo was responsible for a wide range of duties including inspection of citrus, livestock and other agricultural goods. He also oversaw the State Highway Patrol system and the state prison system, as well as the bureau of immigration. His legacy as one of Florida’s greatest boosters is well known and he can be considered a major factor in Florida’s rapid population growth in the mid-20th century.
