The history of what is today Lakewood Ranch started in the early 1900’s when Milwaukee business man, John Schroeder an owner of furniture, turpentine, milling and lumber businesses began acquiring the land this is known today as the Schroeder-Manatee Ranch.
In 1922 the Uihlein Family who are the founders of the original Schlitz Brewing Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin purchased the property of 48 square miles east of I-75 in Manatee and Sarasota counties which is today known as the Schroeder-Manatte Ranch, Inc. or SMR. They grew the agricultural operations that today include shell mining, cattle ranching, farming of citrus, timber, vegetable and turf farming of sod.
In 1994 the development of Lakewood Ranch began. Since 2005 every Lakewood Ranch Neighborhood has used building products and procedures that have led to energy efficient and environmentally safe homes. Learn more about Lakewood Ranch award winning green community, events, recreation, shopping and dining, health and fitness at
Lakewood Ranch Community Lifestyle.
Today Lakewood Ranch encompasses over 21 neighborhoods, 150 miles of walking and jogging trails and 3,500 acres of lakes, nature preserves and parks.
Lakewood Ranch Neighborhoods
Esplanade Golf and Country Club
Lakewood Ranch Neighborhoods 