Daytona Beach, Florida, home of the world's greatest international speedway and a tourist haven, grew out of a small settlement established in 1876 and named in honor of its founder, Matthias Day. Located in Central Florida along the Halifax River, the Daytona Beach area developed after Day purchased Williams's Plantation, which was essentially destroyed during the 1836 Second Seminole War. Since that time, prominent and little-known individuals have created a unique city that is as visitor friendly as it is the ideal home for loyal residents. The striking images in this pictorial history illustrate the evolution of this famous beach town from its beginning in 1876 to the present day.