Lassing Park and Old Souteast
Judge Robert B. Lassing donated Lassing Park (see video below) to the city in 1924. The gift included an understanding that the city of St. Petersburg would erect “no buildings other than necessary for park purposes,” according to a citation included in the survey.
The City acquired additional land in 1926, 1944, and 1945 for the park. On January 8, 1942, Lassing Park was dedicated. From the shores of Lassing Park you can see across Tampa Bay to Apollo Beach, Downtown Tampa, The Coast Guard Station in St Petersburg as well as downtown St. Petersburg. This residential park offers fishing, walking, expansive green space and a spectacular view of sunrises over Tampa Bay.
Old Southeast was established in the mid 1950s by developer C.A. Harvey and A. F. Freeman’s Bayboro Investment Company. They purchased the land east of 4th Street between 7th Avenue South and 19th Avenue South. Old SE is bordered on the east by Lassing Park, a 12.5-acre park on Tampa Bay that runs from 16th to 22nd Avenues.
The historic Bayboro House was constructed as one of the first homes in Old Southeast on Lassing Park. The home served as a base of operations while the Bayboro Development Company continued the development of Old Southeast. The neighborhood is famous for its colored hexagon-block sidewalks. The blocks are arranged in patterns and run throughout the neighborhood. Old Southeast is a hex block preservation district that involves homeowners in the maintenance and upkeep of its historic walkways.
Old Southeast is also known for its’ historical Craftsman Style home construction. Many of these original homes were 2 story structures featuring large front porches. The homes were crafted with great skill as noted in the many intricate designs that adorn the structures as well as the unique materials used in construction.
Lassing Park is a hidden waterfront area south of downtown. Many never visited this area. Come to Lassing Park on a windy day to watch kite surfers. The water is shallow and is a great starting point for this sport. You will enjoy the lifestyle and charm of Old Southeast without the price tag of Old Northeast.
See Old Southeast homes for sale here.
Got questions about real estate in Old Southeast? Give us a call: (727) 417-4495
