Discovering Roots: The Origins of Rexmere Village
Nestled in the heart of Davie, FL, Rexmere Village stands as a living testament to the spirit of community and resilience. To walk its neatly kept streets is to journey through time, where every corner holds a piece of the region's rich tapestry. Founded in the mid-1970s, Rexmere Village emerged during Davie’s transformation from rural farmlands to a sought-after suburban enclave, driven by families seeking tranquility and togetherness without sacrificing proximity to city amenities.
The very name "Rexmere" holds a touch of old-world charm. Locals say it conjures images of a regal, tranquil pond—“Rex” meaning “king” in Latin, and “mere” an old English word for a lake or pond. Rexmere Village lived up to its name with lush landscaping, shimmering lakes, and a natural setting inviting to all.
Milestones That Shaped the Neighborhood
Rexmere Village was established as one of Davie’s premier manufactured home communities. Its official founding dates to 1975, coinciding with a period of remarkable growth in Broward County. The area that is now home to the Village was once pastureland, crisscrossed by the horses and cattle that defined old Davie.
From those humble beginnings, Rexmere quickly blossomed. Streets like Rexmere Boulevard and King’s Lake Drive soon became gathering places for neighbors, often over block parties, seasonal celebrations, or quiet sunset strolls. The opening of Rexmere Hall, the community’s grand clubhouse, in the early 1980s marked a significant milestone. Boasting a lakeside pool, fitness center, and gathering rooms, the clubhouse became a hub for everything from bingo nights and book clubs to charity fundraisers supporting the broader Davie community.
Rexmere Village’s location—just off Davie Road and a stone’s throw from Orange Drive—helped it become a bridge between the rural traditions of old Davie and the conveniences of modern South Florida.
Landmarks and Local Treasures
While Rexmere Village is known for its beautiful homes and friendly faces, a few landmarks hold special meaning for residents and visitors alike:
- The Lake at Rexmere Park: The sparkling lake at the center of the community remains the crown jewel, home to ducks and egrets, and a favorite spot for residents to unwind or fish off the wooden dock.
- Rexmere Hall: More than just a clubhouse, Rexmere Hall reflects the neighborhood’s commitment to social connection, offering rooms for yoga classes, bingo, arts and crafts, and weekly coffee mornings.
- King’s Landing: This scenic area along King’s Lake Drive boasts mature oaks, walking paths, and benches ideal for birdwatching or catching up with neighbors.
- Butterfly Garden: Established by volunteers from the residents’ association in the early 2000s, this vibrant garden showcases native Florida flora and provides a colorful sanctuary for pollinators.
Beyond the Village’s borders, the nearby Davie School—Broward County’s oldest standing school building—serves as a proud reminder of the region’s deep roots in education and community service.
Evolving with the Times
Rexmere Village has never stood still. Over the decades, the neighborhood has welcomed waves of new families, retirees, and young professionals. Houses have been renovated, landscaping refreshed, and amenities continually updated to maintain the neighborhood’s impeccable charm.
In the 1990s, the Village started a tradition of holiday lights along Rexmere Boulevard, turning the community into a twinkling wonderland every December. Summer picnics and food truck gatherings in Rexmere Park became highlights, drawing families from surrounding neighborhoods.
The community’s dedication to environmental stewardship remains strong. Initiatives such as water conservation programs, recycling drives, and the expansion of native plantings along the lakeshores have made Rexmere Village a model for sustainable living in Davie.
The Spirit of Rexmere: What Makes It Special
Perhaps what truly distinguishes Rexmere Village isn’t its beautiful setting or convenient location, but its people. There’s a warmth to the community that makes newcomers feel welcome—neighbors who know each other's names, volunteers who organize charity drives, and a residents’ association that looks out for all.
- Diverse Residents: The Village draws people from all backgrounds—whether families with young children, retirees enjoying Florida’s sunshine, or professionals commuting into Fort Lauderdale but craving a close-knit neighborhood.
- Active Social Life: From educational lectures in the clubhouse to lakeside movie nights and gardening workshops, Rexmere offers opportunities for everyone to get involved.
- Pet-Friendly: Dog-walkers are a common sight along the winding paths, and the Village even boasts a small dog park near the intersection of Rexmere Boulevard and Nova Drive.
Looking to the Future
Today, Rexmere Village continues to evolve while holding dear the traditions and values that made it special from the start. Its blend of natural beauty, robust amenities, and a strong sense of community makes it a shining example of how neighborhoods in Davie have adapted to changing times without losing their soul.
As the sun sets over the lake and the lights twinkle on Rexmere Boulevard, you’ll likely see neighbors out for an evening stroll or hear laughter drifting from the clubhouse. Rexmere Village isn’t just a neighborhood; it’s a story—one that’s still unfolding, with new chapters being written by everyone who calls this remarkable place home.