Welcome to Esto, Florida
Nestled in the heart of the Florida Panhandle, Esto is a charming town that blends Southern hospitality with a rich history and a welcoming community spirit. Located in northeastern Holmes County, Esto is home to 341 residents (as of the 2020 census), and it offers a unique glimpse into life in the Florida Panhandle. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Northwest Florida, Esto boasts not only a small-town charm but also a deep and fascinating history.
A Rich History
Esto’s roots trace back to 1901 when the Louisville & Nashville Railroad chose the location for a new station. After a lively debate over names, the town settled on “Esto,” a Spanish word meaning “this is it” or “this is the place.” This name was fitting for a community destined to become a vital part of the region’s rail network. By 1902, Esto was officially incorporated, becoming the second municipality in Holmes County. The early economy was driven by the timber and turpentine industries, and the arrival of the railroad spurred the growth of sawmills, distilleries, and other industries.
Though the town experienced some decline during the Great Depression, the town experienced a rebirth in the 1960s. The Town was reincorporated by legislative enactment in 1963, subject to approval of the voters in a referendum. That was finally achieved on July 17, 1963, with 70 for and 17 against. The reincorporation of the town lead to a revitalization that included improved infrastructure and public spaces, like the John W. Clark Memorial Park, which remains a community hub to this day.
Two-Toed Tom: A Legendary Resident
No story about Esto would be complete without mentioning our most famous (or infamous) resident: Two-Toed Tom, a legendary alligator that terrorized the region in the early 20th century. This 18-foot alligator, known for his distinctive two-toed footprints, was feared for attacking livestock and even humans. His tale has been passed down through generations, and the annual Two-Toed Tom Festival, held since 1987, celebrates the folklore surrounding this fearsome creature. Even today, sightings of Tom — or his tracks — are still reported in the surrounding swamps.
The State-Line Stores: A Town of Ingenuity
One of Esto’s most distinctive features is its location on the Alabama-Florida state line, which has given rise to several clever business ventures over the years. In the 1930s and 40s C.R. “Cottontop” Reynolds opened a store that straddled the Alabama-Florida state line, taking full advantage of its location. On one side of the store, Reynolds sold alcohol and tobacco tax-free; on the other, he sold gasoline at a lower price than in Florida. Over the years, several businesses have used their unique location to offer goods and services that were otherwise hard to find in either state.
Linda Taylor: A Brief Chapter in Esto’s History
In the mid-1980s, Linda Taylor, the woman vilified by President Ronald Reagan as a “welfare queen,” briefly lived just outside Esto under the name Linda Lynch. After her period of infamy, she moved to Esto, where she lived for a few months in 1985.
The Lucky Lottery Store
Esto is rich in history, but also in Lottery sales. The Friendly Mini-Mart, located on Highway 79 in Esto is described by store owner Jose Martinez as the “lucky store.” The Friendly Mini-Mart has earned its place by ranking among Florida’s state lottery Top Ten for both gross sales and winning ticket sales.
A Community with Heart
Despite its offbeat past, Esto remains a community where neighbors support one another and local traditions thrive. Esto is a town filled with stories and pride. Whether you’re here to explore its history or visit during the annual Two-Toed Tom Festival, Esto offers a warm welcome and a unique glimpse into the heart of the Florida Panhandle.