We recently came across an original Pensacola Visitor Magazine from 1960, and it instantly pulled us into a time capsule of Pensacola’s booming mid-century growth. Inside, we found pages highlighting what were then considered the hottest new neighborhoods around town—many of which are now well-established communities we know today. This rare snapshot offers a fascinating look at how Pensacola marketed “new construction” more than 60 years ago, and it’s a must-see for anyone who loves local history, real estate nostalgia, or vintage advertising.
What Was New in 1960?
In 1960, Pensacola’s real estate scene was full of excitement. The area was expanding rapidly thanks to Navy growth, post-war families settling down, and new suburban communities being carved out of pine forests.
Some modern features being marketed at the time included:
- All-electric “Gold Medallion” homes, a mark of luxury and innovation promising full electric living.
- Air conditioning, which was still considered a premium feature!
- FHA and VA financing, opening the door for many first-time homebuyers.
- City utilities and paved streets, proudly advertised as selling points.
- Carports and “picture windows”, symbols of the American dream home.
- Today, we take these features for granted—but in 1960, they represented cutting-edge comfort and convenience.
Pensacola Neighborhoods Featured in 1960
Below are the neighborhoods advertised in the 1960 Pensacola Visitor Magazine, along with their descriptions. These prices and details offer a fascinating glimpse into the growth that shaped many of the neighborhoods we know today:
- Audubon Place – Homesites available, custom homes from $20,000+ by Northwest Construction.
- Belle Meade Homes – Located at 4500 Palfox, offering several plans to choose from. Build on your lot! Full price around $6,600.
- Casa Blanca del Mar – SMY Builders offering $15,000–$20,000 homes, air-conditioned, Gold Medallion homes with 200 AMP full house power.
- Cordova Park – Custom-built homes from $20,000–$28,000, built by Jerome and Irvin Kelly
- Crescent Lake – Waterfront homes $11,700–$18,000. FHA, VA, and conventional financing. Water and sewage, natural gas.
- Evergreen Homes – 3-bedroom, bath and a half homes in Kingsberry area, $11,900–$12,700. FHA and conventional financing.
- Mayfair – 3- and 4-bedroom homes, 1½ to 3 baths, all utilities, paved streets. FHA terms, $13,200–$18,000.
- Norwood – Built by Jack G. Smith, homes from $13,000–$17,000. FHA and conventional financing, city utilities and paved streets.
- Santa Rosa Shores – Waterfront and inland homes $11,900–$45,000, FHA and conventional financing. All city utilities.
- Scenic Hills – Located near Cordova Park, built by Alvin Chevis, homes starting at $21,000+.
- Skyline Homes – 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick homes starting at $11,960–$12,950 with $360 down. FHA and conventional financing.
- Tristan Villages – Homes $6,960–$11,750, FHA financing available, paved streets and utilities.
- Woodland Heights – Homes $9,950–$12,500, 3-bedroom, 1-bath, FHA terms available.
And here’s a fun detail — the Parade of Homes that year ran September 24 through October 2 at Scenic Hills Country Club, celebrating these new suburban communities and showcasing modern Florida living at its finest. The Parade of Homes is still around in Pensacola 65 years later!
Why We Love This Piece of Pensacola History ❤️
Looking through these vintage magazines reminds us how far Pensacola has come — and how much pride locals have always taken in homeownership. Many of these neighborhoods are still thriving today, filled with mid-century homes that have stood the test of time.
Whether you live in Cordova Park, Scenic Hills, or near the old Crescent Lake area, you’re part of a chapter in Pensacola’s real estate story that stretches back generations. These Pensacola Visitor Magazines are true gems, offering a look into our community’s roots. If you’re a history buff or just love vintage real estate ads, we’d love to show you more!
As Pensacola continues to grow and evolve, our team at Realty Masters of Florida is here to help you navigate today’s real estate market with confidence. Whether you're searching for a home in Cordova Park, Scenic Hills, Gulf Breeze, Pace, or anywhere across Pensacola, we’re dedicated to connecting buyers, sellers, and renters. If you’re considering making a move or investing in Pensacola real estate, our local expertise and deep community roots ensure you have the guidance you need. Reach out anytime — we’d love to help you find your place in Pensacola’s ever-changing real estate landscape.
