Gilchrist County, originally named Melon County, was created in 1925 making it the youngest county in Florida. The county was re-named in honor of Albert W. Gilchrist, Governor of Florida from 1909 to 1913. The legend of the establishment of the county took place in the western half of Alachua County, with the citizens need for a road from the Suwannee River at Fanning to Gainesville, the county seat of Alachua. The citizens presented their request to the County Commission, who promptly refused to build the road. The citizens then presented the County Commission with plans for a new county, who in turn still refused to build the road. At this point the citizens presented their plan for a new county to the Legislature and the bill passed, thus began the start of last county of Florida; Gilchrist County. During this time, Trenton, once known as "West End", became the county seat of Gilchrist County.

Today the small county of Gilchrist serves as "home" to the cities of Trenton and Bell. Located in the heart of the North-Central Florida area, Gilchrist County is dotted with natural springs, ponds and rivers making the county a plethora of water recreational activities. Outlined by the Sante-Fe River and the Suwannee River, fishing, boating, swimming, paddling and cave diving are a part of everyday live in Gilchrist County. Located along the mystic Suwannee River, Fanning Springs offers a source of clear, 72 degree water that is available year round. With picnic areas, playgrounds, volleyball and a canoe/kayak launch area, Fanning Springs is the perfect way to spend a hot Florida day! Tourists and Gilchrist County residents aren't the only visitors to come to Fanning Springs; Manatees are often seen at the spring during the winter months.

Relocating to the small, cozy county of Gilchrist, promises many days of relaxation in one of the few places that have managed to capture the good ol' Florida atmosphere and preserve it! Gilchrist County provides the lifetime of family fun in all the wonders of Florida's unspoiled beauty!