Originally incorporated as the Town of Deerfield on June 11, 1925, our city has a rich and fascinating history. George Emory Butler, Jr. served as the first mayor, leading the way for what would become a thriving community.

In the early 1920s, the neighboring town of Boca Raton was poised to absorb the small settlement of Deerfield. In response, a determined group of the town’s 500 residents united to establish a mayor-council form of government. Key figures like J.D. and G.E. Butler made the journey to Tallahassee, successfully petitioning the state for Articles of Incorporation. Their efforts were rewarded on June 11, 1925.

The first council members—J.D. Butler, O.E. Charlton, J.H. Juvenal, W.A. Scott, and W.M. Johnson (the council’s first president)—worked to shape the town’s future. At the time, the city’s boundaries stretched from the Hillsboro Canal in the north to the Hillsboro Lighthouse in the south.

On June 11, 2025, Deerfield Beach will proudly celebrate its 100th anniversary of incorporation. As we prepare for this historic milestone, we invite everyone to join us for a year of exciting centennial celebrations. Keep an eye on our Centennial Calendar for updates and events—and don’t forget to share your unique ways of honoring this special occasion with us!