Environmental activism in the latter half of the 20th century began to highlight these issues. As regulations tightened, the costs of compliance mounted. By the 1990s, the future of the mill was uncertain. In 1999, the St. Joe Paper Company closed its mill, ending an era that had defined the town for over sixty years.
Economic Transition and Community Resilience
The closure of the paper mill was a major economic shock. Hundreds lost jobs, and Port St. Joe faced the challenge of reinventing itself. Yet, the city demonstrated resilience. Leaders and citizens turned toward tourism, small business development, and real estate as alternatives.
The natural beauty of St. Joseph Bay, long overshadowed by industry, became a focal point for tourism. Fishing, boating, and eco-tourism began to draw visitors. Cape San Blas, St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, and nearby beaches attracted nature lovers.
While the transition was difficult, it reflected Port St. Joe’s long-standing ability to rebuild after adversity.
Hurricanes and Natural Disasters
Nature has repeatedly tested Port St. Joe’s endurance. Hurricanes have battered the community for centuries, from the 1844 storm that destroyed St. Joseph to more recent events.
Hurricane Kate in 1985 and Hurricane Opal in 1995 caused significant damage, but it was Hurricane Michael in 2018 that brought unprecedented destruction. Michael, a Category 5 storm, devastated Gulf County and left Port St. Joe with widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
Recovery was slow and difficult, but once again, the community rebuilt. Churches, schools, and civic groups played central roles in aiding residents and restoring normalcy. shutdown123