The discovery of hard rock phosphate in Alachua County in 1889 led to the rise of boom towns where large deposits were found. Incorporated in 1894, Newberry prospered until 1914, when the onset of World War I forced the mines to close. The mines did not reopen after the war, collapsing the town's economy and driving many residents away. The buildings in Newberry's historic district reflect the boom town atmosphere of small Florida mining communities founded at the end of the 19th century. The district was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.