DeLand is a city in Volusia County, Florida, and the county seat, situated roughly midway between Orlando and Daytona Beach. Founded on December 6, 1876, by New York businessman Henry A. DeLand, the city carries the nickname the Athens of Florida, a reflection of its deep educational and cultural roots. That identity is anchored by Stetson University, established in 1883 and the oldest private college in Florida, whose 175-acre, nationally recognized historic campus sits just north of downtown. The city is home to roughly 48,000 residents and serves as an administrative and educational hub for Volusia County. Its downtown is a defining feature: a walkable, mural-lined historic district with locally owned shops, restaurants, and a preserved architectural character that draws both residents and visitors. The presence of Stetson University gives DeLand a year-round college-town vitality and a steady calendar of cultural events. Education extends beyond the university through Volusia County Schools, which is headquartered in DeLand and operates roughly 89 schools serving about 62,000 students across the county. The city thus functions as the center of the county's public-school administration as well as its higher-education anchor. DeLand's location is another core asset. Interstate 4 and Interstate 95 are both within a short drive, placing the city about 45 minutes from Orlando and 30 minutes from Daytona Beach. SunRail commuter rail serves DeLand, and Amtrak stops at the city's historic train depot. For recreation, DeLand sits near some of Florida's most celebrated natural springs, including Blue Spring State Park, a winter manatee refuge about 15 minutes away, and De Leon Springs State Park, while Green Springs Park lies within the city. The combination of a historic college town, strong educational institutions, and access to springs and the Atlantic coast makes DeLand a distinctive place to live in Central Florida.