This legacy began with former Florida Governor Lawton Chiles and his wife, Rhea, who dedicated their lives to public service and environmental conservation. Governor Chiles was renowned for his steadfast dedication to protecting Florida’s land and waterways for future generations. A statesman with deep roots in the Sunshine State, Chiles served in the Florida Legislature before being elected to the U.S. Senate in 1970. His famous 1,003-mile walk across Florida earned him the nickname “Walkin’ Lawton” and embodied his commitment to staying connected to the people he served.

During his 18 years in the U.S. Senate, Chiles became a national leader on environmental policy, government accountability, and children’s health. Elected as Florida’s 41st governor in 1991, he brought those same values to the Governor’s Mansion—expanding health care for children through Florida KidCare, promoting early childhood education, and leading initiatives to protect the Everglades and other fragile ecosystems.

That spirit of service and conservation lives on today through his son, Lawton “Bud” Chiles, and daughter-in-law, Kitty Chiles. Bud has continued his father’s legacy through decades of advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and environmental stewardship. He founded the Lawton Chiles Foundation, advancing causes such as early learning and childhood wellness, and has been a vocal champion for policies that protect Florida’s land, water, and rural communities.

Together, Bud and Kitty established Jubilee Orchards to demonstrate what sustainable agriculture and responsible land management can look like. Their mission blends farming with habitat preservation, community outreach, and regenerative land practices. The result is a living legacy—a place where nature is nurtured and future generations can learn, explore, and thrive.