Hawley Smith

Hawley Smith

Creator’s Story

As you drive through many of the most esteemed communities around the Jacksonville, you are likely viewing the work of Hawley Smith. Over the past 40 years, Hawley has created numerous neighborhoods in Jacksonville that families call “home.” Some are quaint and intimate with as few as 10 residences while others are large master-planned communities with as many as 3,000.

River Story of Mandarin is Hawley’s latest creation. Just like its name, this community is truly a page turner with endless adventure and beauty as far as the eye can see. With elements ranging from the St. Johns River to the historic surroundings and stately century live oaks, to the articulate architectural design, this story will be a classic.

As an example of Hawley’s work, River Bay Plantation, which lies just east of River Story, was built in the 90’s. Similar to River Story, it is an elegantly crafted enclave that features custom built estates on naturally arboreous acre lots, established with thriving families.

The stately riverfront properties in River Bay Plantation have anchored the residents to the St. Johns River and to one another for years. Families who are fortunate enough to call it home enjoy the lifestyle that goes hand in hand with living in a place of calm and beauty while being vibrantly connected to the wider community. River Story promises a modern environment evolved from River Bay.

It takes thoughtful planning to transform a street scape into a community. Hawley has always taken great pride in doing just that. His completed waterfront neighborhoods include:

  • River Bay Plantation
  • Riverplace
  • Waverly
  • Silverleaf
  • Marshwinds
  • Palencia

Hawley founded H. Smith, Inc. in 1976, developing its first neighborhoods in Mandarin. Though his business has expanded to greater Jacksonville and even beyond, his roots both professionally and personally have always been here. He started his family, raised his children and continues to live his story in Mandarin.

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