Lafayette County was created in 1856, and originally included neighboring Dixie County . The county was named to honor French General Marquis de Lafayette who directly assisted Americans efforts against the British during the American Revolution. The historic Suwannee River serves as the county's boundary to the east.

The county seat of Mayo is home to 925 of the counties 5,603 residents. Agriculture makes up 50% of the Lafayette County economy. Dairy, tobacco, watermelons, beef, poultry and produce combined for more than 32 million dollars in sales in 1990. In addition, more than 75% of the land is planted in timber with approximately 65% of all the land owned by timer companies. The Mayo Correctional Institute is one of the largest employers with more than 350 employees.

The county school system has more than 1,000 students, with more than 10% representing the children of migrant farm workers. Lafayette County also has a low cost of living, comfortable climate, outdoor activities, and fine health care facilities.

Lafayette County is also close to many larger cities, listed below are the distances in miles to each.

Mileage to nearest cities:

Tampa ………….150
Orlando …………153
Jacksonville ……. ..93
Miami …………...348
Atlanta …………..269

Lafayette County Schools:
http://hornet.lafayette.k12.fl.us/

Lafayette Information:
http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/12/12067.html