Manila formerly known as Big Lake Island was founded in 1852 by Ed Smith. It was in the heart of fine virgin timber consisting of red oak, cypress, gum and walnut which brought in the lumber industry.

At one time it was a fish center with 40 tons per day being shipped out, also large quantities of turtles and ducks.

Hunting and fishing was quite an industry in its early days.

Manila was originally known as Cinda, honoring the first postmaster's daughter, Sam Bunch, postmaster in 1898.