Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, June 11, 2026 —

Julia Tuttle Recognized as Sole Female Founder of Major U.S. City

Miami stands unique among major U.S. cities as the only one founded by a woman. Julia Tuttle, a widowed businesswoman originally from Ohio, is credited with envisioning and establishing the city in the late 19th century.

Tuttle’s pivotal role involved persuading Henry Flagler to extend his Florida East Coast Railway to the area. This influence was instrumental in the city’s formal incorporation, which occurred in 1896.

Although her legacy faced periods of being overlooked, Tuttle is now widely acknowledged as the “Mother of Miami” for her singular achievement in founding a major American city.

Story summarized from the original created by Miami Wire Staff 2 on miamiwire.com, see more information here.

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