Big Coppitt Key

Big Coppitt Key is an island in Monroe County, Florida, in the lower Florida Keys. The name is said to be a derivation of the old English word "coppice", meaning thicket. According to A.D. Bache, in the notes for his coast survey conducted in 1861, this key was the location of Happy Jack's plantation in 1855. [ [http://keys.fiu.edu/gazetteer/00000033.htm "Key Names" Florida Keys Gazetteer] ]

Geography

U.S. 1 (the Overseas Highway) crosses the key at approximately mile markers 9.5-11, between East Rockland Key and the Saddlebunch Keys.

About the Community

There are several businesses on Big Coppitt Key. There is also a Monroe County Fire/Rescue Station located on the island. Law Enforcement services are handled by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office. There are 3 churches located on Big Coppitt Key. Three parks, including one with a playground and another with a basketball court, in the avenues section. A cemetery is located at Avenue A and 4th Street.

In 2005, Hurricane Wilma caused catastrophic damage to the island. Many structures were either destroyed or rendered almost uninhabitable due to flood damage.

References