David Levy Yulee, one of the first United States senators from Florida, established the first cross-state railroad running from Fernandina Beach to Cedar Key, which opened on March 1, 1861.

Significant buildings within the Historic District include the Nassau County Courthouse, the Post Office, the Train Depot, Public School No.

The John Denham Palmer House, Amelia Island Lighthouse, and Peck High School have also all been individually included in the local historic district boundaries.

The Amelia Island Museum of History is directly adjacent to the District, and Fort Clinch and the beach are within a short distance east.

Each year in May, the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival takes place in the Historic District, attracting thousands of visitors.