Melbourne, located in Brevard County, Florida, was founded in 1867 by former slaves seeking a new start after the Civil War. The city was named after Melbourne, Australia, in honor of its first postmaster, Cornthwaite John Hector, who was originally from there. Melbourne grew rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks to the development of the railroad and the establishment of industries like fishing and agriculture.
Some notable people from Melbourne include professional golfer Arnold Palmer, astronaut Winston Scott, and actress Kate Upton.
The population of Melbourne has steadily grown over the years, from just a few hundred residents in the late 19th century to over 80,000 today.
Melbourne is located on Florida's east coast, along the Indian River Lagoon. The city is known for its mild climate, with warm temperatures year-round.
Melbourne's economy is diverse, with major industries including aerospace, technology, tourism, and healthcare. The city is home to companies like Harris Corporation and Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems.
Melbourne has a rich cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The city hosts events like the Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival and the Melbourne Art Festival.