Baldwin is a historic rail town in Jacksonville
On the outskirts of Jacksonville, locals have a slow-paced lifestyle in Baldwin. The independent Florida town encompasses roughly 11 square miles and has a history dating back to the 1800s. The area was a transportation hub, with railways connecting it to surrounding communities. The town was rebuilt after the Civil War and continued to grow along the train lines. "Baldwin has a small-town feel, and many residents have been there for a long time," says Penny Broughton of Florida Homes Realty and Mortgage. Baldwin has its own municipal government, including a council and mayor. However, the town receives county-level services from Duval County.
A mix of historic and modern homes supports Baldwin’s growth
Baldwin has quaint homes with front porches and sturdy bungalows from the early 1900s. The community also contains midcentury brick dwellings and ranch styles. Although Baldwin has seasoned locals, Broughton says the town sees its fair share of new people moving in. The housing stock supports the community's growth through newer homes built over the last few years. Many recent abodes span around 1,500 square feet and have three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Several homes show a similar aesthetic to the established architecture. Broughton says that homes, on average, range between $275,000 to $300,000. Potential buyers can expect to pay $100 to $250 per square foot.
Public Duval County Public Schools support academic and career goals
Duval County Public Schools serve the town, but locals can stay within Baldwin when it's time to learn. Mamie Agnes Jones Elementary, rated a B on Niche, offers a curriculum emphasizing leadership opportunities. The school also has a Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Program encouraging healthy relationships with produce. The remaining students attend Baldwin Middle/Senior High School, which earns a B. The middle-high school offers college pathways as well as career pathways for Digital Marketing and Landscape Operations.
A multi-use trail connects Baldwin to nearby communities
The town sees many regional travelers along the Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail, a multi-use pathway along an abandoned CSX line. The linear park stretches 14 miles across several communities, inviting joggers, bikers and equestrians to enjoy an alternative route to the busy streets. The trailhead is situated in Larry M. Carroll Memorial Park at Baldwin's center, which has a brick pavilion with a sign that says "Baldwin Station," welcoming weary hikers along the trail. The park has a senior center, a small public playground and a skatepark. There is also a red train car that appears derailed and out of place, but the permanent structure pays homage to Baldwin's locomotive history.
Local staple restaurants reflect Baldwin's small-town charm
Most of Baldwin's commerce is along Routes 90 and 301. Following these lazy highways will lead to local businesses, shops and service providers. The town boasts one of the few government-run grocery stores in the country. The Baldwin Market is the preferred shopping destination for most of the locals, from picking a bouquet of flowers to daily groceries. Since 1914, regulars have filled the laid-back diner Everybody's Restaurant. Here, hungry patrons look for a cup of morning coffee, a homestyle breakfast or a comforting Southern dinner.
Those looking for old-fashioned barbecue should look for the pink pig of Cousin Willie's Smokehouse on US-90. The establishment serves up tasty burgers, brisket and Brunswick stew. The restaurant also has a bike rack out front for travelers taking a pit stop along the rail trail. Cozy, charming and resilient, Baldwin is a welcoming small town in North Florida.
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Written By
Ashley Kennedy
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Photography Contributed By
Jeremy Wooten
