Sumter County is located in the heart of one of the fastest growing states in America, encompassing 574 square miles, including 19 square miles of inland water. Geographically located in the center of the state, it is referred to as the Crossroads of Central Florida. Interstate 75, US Highway 301, State Road 44, and the Florida Turnpike connect Sumter County with major metropolitan cities throughout the state, and with the nation's highway network.

See Economic Development Council for more information. Note, you will be leaving the Sumter County BOCC website.

Sumter County was the 29th county established in Florida and was created by State Legislature on January 8, 1853. It was named for General Thomas Sumter (1736-1832), a native of South Carolina who was prominent in the south compaigns of the Revolutionary War. The County is rich in Indian lore from the Seminole occupation of the territory. Major battles in the Second Seminole Indian War were fought in Sumter County.

Dade Battlefield Historical Site, immediately south of Bushnell, marks the site of the infamous Dade Massacre, which occurred December 28, 1835, and sparked the Second Seminole Indian War. A Museum with artifacts of the era, monuments and descriptive plaques are a focal point of the 80-acre state park, which also has a picnic area and a large meeting hall.

Sumter County is also home of one of the Veterans Administration National Cemeteries. Third consecutive year winner of the Carey Award-1998, 1999 & 2000 for the "Best National Cemetery" in the Unites States.