The City of Sebastian has changed the name of the Main Street Boat Ramp back to its original name in honor of Capt. Robert G. Hardee (1872-1947) who was a pioneer resident whose contributions left a lasting impact on the community.
“I can’t thank the City of Sebastian enough for working with me on this project to restore this boat ramp back to its original name,” Scarlett Chesser, Hardee’s great-great-granddaughter, said in a statement.
Chesser said that Hardee was born in 1872 in City Point, FL, and grew up near Rockledge, formerly Hardeeville. He relocated to Sebastian in 1892 and quickly became a key figure in the community’s growth.
In 1901, he married Clarissa Kitching, whose father, Sylvanus Kitching, is recognized for naming the town.
Hardee’s contributions to the community were numerous. He founded the Eagle Fish Company, served as Sebastian’s postmaster, and was a member of the Sebastian City Council for 11 years.
In 1925, he played a significant role in representing the area in Tallahassee during the formation of Indian River County.
Originally a citrus grower, Hardee eventually developed much of his land into residential subdivisions. He owned over 22 boats, including the notable yacht named St. Sebastian.
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