Gainesville is the biggest city in the county of Alachua, in the state of Florida, United States. Also, the city serves as the county seat, along with being the principal city of the Gainesville, Florida Metropolitan Area or also called MSA. During 2010, the Census recorded the population as being approximately 124,300. Gainesville is home to the University of Florida, the 6th largest campus in the States as well as Santa Fe College.
The city of Gainesville was incorporated during the year 1869. The city of Gainesville was named in honor of General Edmund Pendleton who was a well-known commander during the Second Seminole War. The city of Gainesville flourished and prospered in the latter part of the 19th Century due to its success of the citrus and phosphate industries. Gainesville's central location likewise allowed it to become a main target of the railroad business.
The beginning of the 20th Century saw a devastating effect on the cotton crops due to the boll weevil infestation. During 1906, the construction of the University of Florida proved to be a staple that will become essential in preserving the economy of the region even in the depression era. The university has continued to bring prosperity to the region even in the latter part of the century. Presently, the city of Gainesville is recognized for its historic districts, many cultural venues, world class medical facilities and the newly restored city buildings.
The areas largest employers consist of the city government, the Shands Healthcare System and the University of Florida. The top jobs sectors within the city consist of: retail, education, scientific, technical and professional services, healthcare, food services, accommodation and construction services. Moreover, among the area's major industries is agriculture.
The Gainesville Technology Enterprise Center helps local technology companies grow their business. The center works in order to create high paying jobs and improve the local economy by being involved in different projects.
Thomas Center is considered to be the central hub of Gainesville. It is the place for many musical programs, art exhibits and galleries. The Center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It contains meeting rooms, local history exhibits, performance space, the adjacent grace and Sidney Knight's Children's Theatre and the nearby Thomas Center Gardens. There are various cultural facilities in the city like for instance the Hippodrome State Theatre, the Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Harn Museum Art, the Gainesville Community Playhouse, the Civic Media Center, the Olustee Battlefield State Historic Site and the Acrosstown Repertory Theatre.
Having the University of Florida within the vicinity really enhances the city's opportunities for cultural lifestyles in the community. The School of Theatre and Dance, the School of Music, the School of Art and Art History are all under the umbrella of the Florida College of Fine Arts, along with numerous other programs. The Center for World Art and Digital Worlds and the University Galleries are other establishments on site.