Cauley Square: A Railroad Fairy Tale

Picture 1903: crates of avocados stacked on wooden carts, steam rising from the Florida East Coast locomotive as William Cauley watches his produce begin its journey north…

It all started with agriculture and the railroad.

• In the beginning, it was all about agriculture.
• The railroad came along and everything changed.
• William Cauley made sure his produce reached Miami in a more efficient way.

In 1903, pioneering farmers in South Florida heavily relied on the Florida East Coast Railway managed by an employee named Goulds to bring their produce to Miami. One-of-a-kind weather and a unique rich soil were the perfect combinations. Agriculture flourished thanks to the ideal weather and fertile soil. The area played a key role in supplying the growing city of Miami.

The Goulds sidings were a reliable and efficient way to transport agricultural products to the city.

Yet, these sidings weren’t just a technical improvement—they transformed local lives.

Local farmers like William Cauley benefited greatly. Cauley owned 10 acres of land he conveniently used to develop a large shipping operation. The railroad running alongside his property inspired him to build a large two-story warehouse and an office with a touch of Spanish architecture which remains even today the main building in the area.

Cauley Square is still standing tall. The old warehouse cum office has stoically resisted the passing of time and visitors now are greeted by stores and restaurants in a lush paradise where peacocks and squirrels abound.

There is a lot of history in this place, for sure.

If you venture south of Miami, Cauley Square is definitely a must-see stop.

What's there to see and do at Cauley Square today?

- Over 10+ acres of picturesque gardens, shops, art galleries, restaurants, and wellness spas.

- The Florida's History Living Tour presented by storyteller Cesar Becerra which will bring you closer to the history and mysteries of this South Dade gem. Click on the link above for a full calender.

- The Aviary Bird Shop which sells exotic birds, food, and supplies.

- The Jimmy's Bright Ideas that showcases home decor handcrafted from vintage finds.

- Hidden in the lush landscape, The Village Chalet Restaurant that offers a perfect Caribbean combination of wine, beer, seafood, and steak.

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