Our Legacy

In the early 1900s, John Schroeder of Milwaukee, an owner of furniture, turpentine, milling and lumber businesses, began assembling the beautiful land, rich in natural resources, that is, today, Schroeder-Manatee Ranch (SMR).

In 1922, the Uihlein family, founders of Schlitz Brewing Company, acquired the land and continued to expand the agricultural operations still active today, which include cattle ranching, vegetable, citrus, timber, and turf farming as well as shell mining.

In 1994, after years of planning and approvals, real estate development began with the introduction of Lakewood Ranch. The stewardship of a great American family, a history of successful land management and a strong financial plan make Lakewood Ranch a sound investment and a great place to live.