Invitation from Mayor Bob Carr for City Hall Dedication
An invitation from Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) sent for an early preview of the new Orlando City Hall, which was to be dedicated on October 3, 1958. Mayor Carr served from 1957 through January 29, 1967, when he died in office. It was during his tenure that Walt Disney (1901-1966) announced plans to build the Walt Disney World Resort in the Greater Orlando area. The new city hall was designed by Richard Boon Rogers and stood eight stories tall. The building was technologically up-to-date for its time with air conditioning and fallout shelters. Additionally, it was the first city hall Orlando had which was designed for that purpose. It remained in use until its destruction in 1991, which was filmed for use in Lethal Weapon 3. The new city hall was much more spacious than the previous building used. Grace Chewning, who worked in the clerk's office, described the new city hall as "so open there was such a feeling of freedom."
Original invitation, 1958: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
City of Orlando
Orlando City Hall, Downtown Orlando, Florida
City Hallways, Souvenir Issue, October 1958
The souvenir issue of City Hallways, a publication by the City of Orlando to keep employees up to date on news and events. This edition covers the new Orlando City Hall building, which was dedicated on October 3, 1958. The new city hall was designed by Richard Boon Rogers and stood eight stories tall. The building was technologically up-to-date for its time with air conditioning and fallout shelters. Additionally, it was the first city hall Orlando had which was designed for that purpose. It remained in use until its destruction in 1991, which was filmed for use in Lethal Weapon 3.
Original publication: City Hallways, October 1958: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando Police Department Handcuffs and Key
A pair of handcuffs and key from the Orlando Police Department (OPD). These items are featured in one of the Orlando Remembered exhibits at the Orlando City Hall, located at 400 South Orange Avenue in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The handcuffs were a gift of Bob Chewning, who became the OPD's Chief of Police in 1967. These handcuffs were used sometime between 1946, when Chewning became a beat officer in 1946, and 1976, when he retired. During the 1950s, the OPD and Orlando City Jail were located on the west side of North Orange Avenue, between East Jackson Street and East South Street.
Original handcuffs and key: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando Police Department, Orlando City Hall, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Mayor Carl T. Langford's (1918-2011) bugle. Langford served as mayor from 1967 to 1980, succeeding a recently deceased Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) at the helm of the City Beautiful. A businessman by trade, Mayor Langford had no previous political experience whatsoever when he took over as mayor. Mayor Carr had been a well-loved figure in Orlando politics and many had opposed Langford in his bid to succeed him. Mayor Langford was famous for his open door policy, through which he encouraged any and all citizens who had a concern to come and see him. Mayor Carr had created the Human Relations Committee and the Inter-Racial Advisory Committee to provide Orlando with a model group of individuals who would deal with race relations and provide a new sense of community. Mayor Langford appointed Robert Joseph Chewning, a political opponent, to the position of Chief of Police for the Orlando Police Department (OPD). Chief Chewning would go on to completely modernize the Orlando Police Department including the desegregation of officers and the appointment of the first black police lieutenant in Orlando. Mayor Langford worked to obtain raises for the police force and to make it easier for African Americans to join the police and fire departments. Mayor Langford's legacy also includes the development of the Orlando International Airport, which was initially the McCoy Air Force Base. At midnight on his final day as mayor, Langford, a former boy scout, played "Taps" on the bugle on the steps of city hall.
Original bugle: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor Bill Frederick's Key to the City of Orlando
The city key presented to Mayor Bill Frederick (b. 1934), who served as the Mayor of Orlando from 1980 to 1992. He succeeded long-time mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011), who had retired in 1980 after a significant success in transforming Orlando into a modern city. Mayor Frederick expanded the Orlando International Airport, which was developed during his predecessor's tenure. Mayor Frederick supported the arts and education and his progressive approach as mayor transformed Orlando into The City Beautiful. He renovated Lake Eola Park, reduced the crime rate in the city, built the original Orlando Arena, and improved public schooling with COMPACT, a program that provided mentors for students in Orange County Public Schools (OCPS). Mayor Frederick also saw the construction of the new $36-million-dollar Orlando City Hall, located at 400 South Orange Avenue.
Original key: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor Bob Carr's Key to the City of Orlando
The commemorative key to Orlando, Florida, that was presented to Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967). Robert Spencer Carr served as mayor of Orlando from 1956 to 1967. In 1945, when Carr was president of the Greater Orlando Chamber of Commerce, he helped establish the Orlando Negro Chamber of Commerce. Carr also helped establish the Florida's Easter Seals Organization, a charity group dedicated to proving opportunities to adults and children with physical disabilities. His term as mayor was marked by positive race relations. Mayor Carr established the Human Relations Committee as part of his effort to desegregate the city, in which he was successful. The Bob Carr Theater was named in his honor when the existing facility was modernized from 1975 to 1977.
Orlando City Hall Architectural Drawings
The contract drawings for the heating and air conditioning systems that were to be installed in Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. Drawings contain the name of the commissioners of the city of Orlando. The old Orlando City Hall building was completed in 1958, stood at eight stories tall, and cost $1,600,000 to construct. The city hall was imploded on October 25, 1991, for the opening scene of the film Lethal Weapon 3. The new city hall building was completed in 1992, stands at nine stories tall, and cost $32,000,000 to construct.
Original black and white photograph: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando Chief of Police Bob Chewning's Whistle and Badge
The police badge and whistle of Robert Joseph Chewning (b. 1923), the Chief of Police for the Orlando Police Department (OPD) from 1967 to 1973. Chief Chewning was born October 22, 1923, in Baltimore, Maryland. After serving in the Eighth Air Force (8 AF) of the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II, he migrated to Central Florida and began his law enforcement career with OPD in 1946. While Chief Chewning was in office he made great strides in modernizing the agency. This included issuing portable radios for patrol officers and several other progressive programs that were instituted department wide. One of his successful plans was to give financial aid to officers under his charge to pursue higher education and obtain their college degrees. Chief Chewning later served as the Director of Public Safety for Orange County.
Original whistle and badge: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
This older model wooden police baton was used as a non-lethal alternative when making arrests. This baton was owned by Robert Joseph Chewning (b. 1923), who had served as Chief of Police for the Orlando Police Department (OPD) from 1967 to 1973. Chief Chewning was born October 22, 1923, in Baltimore, Maryland. After serving in the Eighth Air Force (8 AF) of the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II, he migrated to Central Florida and began his law enforcement career with OPD in 1946. While Chief Chewning was in office he made great strides in modernizing the agency. He instituted several progressive programs, including issuing portable radios to patrol officers. One of his successful plans was to give financial aid to officers under his charge to pursue higher education and obtain their college degrees. Chief Chewning later served as the Director of Public Safety for Orange County.
Original nightstick: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor William Beardall's Key to the City of Orlando
The city key presented to Mayor William Beardall (1890-1984). Beardall served as Mayor of Orlando from 1940 to 1952. He served four consecutive terms through the turbulent years of World War II and its aftermath. While in office he upgraded the city infrastructure including construction of a new sewage plant, expansion of paved roads and highways, and various airport additions, all of which aided the overall growth of the city.
Mayor Carl T. Langford's Big Key to the City of Orlando
The city key presented to Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011). Langford was elected to the Office of Mayor on March 7, 1967, to fill the vacancy left when Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) died in office. Mayor Langford served through 1980. A businessman, Mayor Langford played a significant role in expanding Orlando with the installation of the Orlando International Airport. He also served as mayor during the Civil Rights Movement and played a role in integrating the city. Mayor Langford promoted the inclusion of African Americans in the city police academy. He also created a policy that allowed African Americans to become firemen, making Orlando the first city in the state to have African-American firefighters.
Mayor Carl T. Langford and the Orlando City Council
Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011) and members of the Orlando City Council. Standing from left to right are District 2 City Commissioner Shelton Adams, District 3 City Commissioner Thomas M. Brownlee, District 1 City Commissioner Donald L. Crenshaw and District 4 City Commissioner Arthur "Pappy" Kennedy. Seated from left to right are a contractor, Mayor Carl Thomas Langford and Grace Ann Chewning. Kennedy was the first African-American city commissioner for Orlando. Chewning was the city clerk and the wife of the Orlando Police Department's (OPD) Chief of Police, Robert Joseph Chewning. Langford was elected to the Office of Mayor on March 7, 1967, to fill the vacancy left when Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) died in office. Mayor Langford served through 1980. A businessman, Mayor Langford played a significant role in expanding Orlando with the installation of the Orlando International Airport. He also served as mayor during the Civil Rights Movement and played a role in integrating the city. Mayor Langford promoted the inclusion of African Americans in the city police academy. He also created a policy that allowed African Americans to become firemen, making Orlando the first city in the state to have African-American firefighters.
Original color photograph: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
"Right to Know" Award for Mayor Carl T. Langford
This wooden wall mount was awarded to Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011) by the Sigma Delta Chi Chapter, a local journalism fraternity, in 1968. Langford was elected to the Office of Mayor on March 7, 1967, to fill the vacancy left when Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) died in office. Mayor Langford served through 1980. A businessman, Mayor Langford played a significant role in expanding Orlando with the installation of the Orlando International Airport. He also served as mayor during the Civil Rights Movement and played a role in integrating the city. Mayor Langford promoted the inclusion of African Americans in the city police academy. He also created a policy that allowed African Americans to become firemen, making Orlando the first city in the state to have African-American firefighters.
Original plaque, 1968: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
The implosion of the 1958 Orlando City Hall, which was featured in Lethal Weapon 3. During Mayor Bill Frederick’s (b. 1934) campaign to beautify and transform Orlando, a new city hall had been built to replace the one built in 1958 under Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967). Through the marketing efforts of Orlando-based production manager Oscar Testagrossa, the city government’s desire to demolish the old city hall attracted the attention of Hollywood production company Silver Pictures. A $50,000 agreement between the City of Orlando and the production company for exclusive rights to footage of the implosion worked to offset the $80,000 demolition cost. The demolition was contracted to the Orlando firm Chapman &amp
Sons, Inc. with its explosives phase subcontracted to Controlled Demolition, Inc. (CDI) of Phoenix, Maryland. Before the demolition, the new city hall—less than 10 feet away—was insured for $20 million. Through a collaborative effort between CDI and Warner Bros. to synchronize 180 pounds of explosives and 400 special effects charges, the building collapsed within six seconds.
Original color film still: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
An "L" from the 1958 Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The building was designed by noted Orlando architect Richard Boone Rogers under the administration of Mayor William Beardall (1890-1984), who served from 1940 to 1952, and the land was acquired during the administration of Mayor J. Rolfe Davis (1904-1988), who served from 1953 to 1956. The building was constructed by Tampa-based firm C. A. Fielland from 1956 to 1958 during the administration of Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967), who served from 1956 to 1967. Dedicated October 3, 1958, the building served as Orlando’s City Hall until its implosion on October 25, 1991, following the construction of a new city hall less than 10 feet away.
Original letter: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
In Commemoration of a Former Landmark of the City of Orlando
A plaque commemorating the former 1958 Orlando City Hall, which was imploded on October 25, 1991, for the filming of Lethal Weapon 3. The building was replaced by a new one in 1991 as a product of Mayor Bill Frederick’s (b. 1934) efforts to beautify and improve Orlando. The city hall was designed by noted Orlando architect Richard Boone Rogers under the administration of Mayor William Beardall (1890-1984), who served from 1940 to 1952, and the land was acquired during the administration of Mayor J. Rolfe Davis (1904-1988), who served from 1953 to 1956. The building was constructed by Tampa-based firm C. A. Fielland from 1956 to 1958 during the administration of Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967), who served from 1956 to 1967. Dedicated October 3, 1958, the building served as Orlando’s City Hall until its implosion on October 25, 1991, following the construction of a new city hall less than 10 feet away.
Original commemorative plaque: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
An advertisement produced to showcase the advent of mid-century modernism in Orlando, Florida. The film depicts marketing strategies aimed at attracting white middle-to-upper class men in either military or defense technology engineering professions. It emphasizes the economic, cultural, and social changes taking place within Orlando that make it an ideal place to raise a family and to live a fulfilling life. The film also depicts developments and signs of growth that occurred in Orlando before the Walt Disney World Resort opened.
Original 14-minute and 28-second color film: Action Center USA. Directed by Grant Gravitt (Orlando, FL: Tel Air Interests, Inc.): State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Orlando Public Library, Orlando, Florida
Central Florida Museum, Orlando, Florida
A brochure concerning the construction of the Orlando City Hall in Orlando, Florida. The brochure outlines the city officials responsible in the various steps of its conception, construction, and design processes. A brief stapled on the inside of the front cover details the construction materials as well as the technical features of the building. A majority of the brochure consists of floor plan designs. The building was designed by noted Orlando architect Richard Boone Rogers under the administration of Mayor William Beardall (1923-2011), and was constructed on land acquired during the administration of Mayor J. Rolfe Davis (1904-1988). The building was constructed by Tampa-based firm C.A. Fielland from 1956 to 1958 during the administration of Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967). Dedicated on October 3, 1958, the building served as Orlando’s city hall until its implosion on October 25, 1991, following the construction of a new City Hall less than ten feet away as a product of Mayor Bill Frederick’s efforts to beautify and improve Orlando. The building's implosion is featured in a scene from the Warner Bros.’ 1992 film Lethal Weapon 3.
Orlando Chamber of Commerce
Original 12-page brochure by the Orlando Chamber of Commerce, 1958: Call No. FLORIDA 975.924 Orl , Orlando Public Library, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor William Beardall hard at work in his office (1890-1984). Beardall served as Mayor of Orlando from 1940 to 1952. Mayor Beardall made improvements to Orlando International Airport by expanding upon it and creating a larger terminal. Progress in the city’s sewer system was guided by Mayor Beardall along with improved street paving and a new incinerator plant.
The City of Orlando acquired a new city hall in 1958. Situated at the corner of South Orange Avenue and South Street in Downtown Orlando, the 1958 city was located very close to where the current city hall stands. The 1958 city hall was a large eight-story upgrade from the previous city hall. Prior to 1924, the city government offices were housed in the former building for the Orlando Public School. In 1924, city hall was relocated and the Orlando Police Department (OPD) took over the old school building. The 1958 city hall was imploded 1991 for the filming of Lethal Weapon 3. The current Orlando City Hall was built on the same lot, with its signature dome roof while being overshadowed by large skyscrapers in the heart of Downtown Orlando at the corner of Orange Avenue and South Street.
Original black and white photographic print, 1958: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
McElroy Apartments was originally a building owned by Sylvan McElroy Sr., whose family was one of the first settlers in Orlando, Florida, arriving in 1881. McElroy attended Rollins Academy (present-day Rollins College) in Winter Park, the Stetson University in DeLand, and received his medical degree from a medical school in Maryland. He opened his medical practice in 1908, and was a founder of the Orange General Hospital, now known as the Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC). Prior to 1926, he hired designer George Krug, who was well known for his Colonial Revival-style architecture, to help build his new apartment building on Orange Avenue, two blocks north of Lake Lucerne. In the early 1960s, after McElroy, passed away, the City of Orlando bought the property and demolished the apartments, in order to build a parking garage for Orlando Utilities. Today, the garage belongs to the International Restaurant &amp
McElroy Apartments, Downtown Orlando, Florida
The Orlando Police Department (OPD) motor patrol in 1948, with Lieutenant Vernon "Bulldog" Rogers in the center. The OPD was established in 1875, the same year Orlando became incorporated into a city with only 22 votes. The motor patrol was first created during the 1930s with the purchase of four patrol cars and a motorcycle in 1934. Lt. Rodgers was the first officer in the department to ride the OPD's 1200cc front-end Harley Davidson.
Original black and white photograph, 1948: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
A key to the city of Orlando. The size of the key represents the importance of the key. The "Key to the City" tradition comes from the medieval "Freedom of the City" tradition. The recipient of this key or this honor received the privilege to enter or leave the city whenever he or she wanted. In the past, cities only gave this honor to its military personnel and its outstanding civilians. In today's world, cities give it to its people and others who are not residents, but have a strong connection with the city. This is the highest honor that a person can receive from a city. There is usually a ceremony when this honor is being given to someone. Musicians, sportsmen, and actors have been chosen to receive this award time to time in the distant past. The mayor is often the person who presents the key to the recipient in the United States.
Buttons from the Orlando Steam Laundry in Downtown Orlando, Florida. Originally called Mann Laundry, the business was first located on East Pine Street. The laundry was later purchased by I. N. Burman and J. N. Wigfall, Jr. in 1919, who renamed it the Orlando Steam Laundry and moved the business to 43 West Concord Avenue. In 1923, the company was sold to a stock company. Orlando Steam Laundry went out of business in April of 1975. Its last known address is 1705 Depauw Avenue.
Original buttons: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
This painting highlights notable businesses and the Orlando City Hall located in Downtown Orlando, Florida in 1951. Featured in the piece is South Street and the South West Corner of Boone Street. At the center of the piece is the Orlando City Hall which was constructed in 1906 originally to serve as the Orlando Public School. On the right is the headquarters of the American Fire and Casualty Company, which is the only distinguishable business in the piece. In 1951, visitors would have seen many flourishing businesses such as Howard's Grocery Company, Borden Dairy, Orlando Linen Service, as well as the Dixie Sales and Service Garage. The piece was painted by artist Jim Stoll in conjunction with Orlando Remembered.
Original oil painting by Jim Stoll: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Howard Grocery Company, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Orlando Linen Service, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Borden's Dairy, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Dixie Sales & Service, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Joe Croy's Filling Station, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Enzor's Pharmacy, Downtown Orlando, Florida
American First & Casualty Company, Downtown Orlando, Florida
The keys to the Orlando City Council chambers. The key was the only key that would unlock the door to the Council chambers. The key opened a pin tumbler lock, which had five pins that responded when depressed by the key. This type of key format was patented in 1851. Attached to the chain is a disc that was more than likely designed to prevent theft, as well as to prevent the key from getting lost as it was the only key that could open the council chambers. It is likely that this key was the original used in the city hall built in 1958, which remained in use until 1991.
A bottle for storing medicine used by pharmacists in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Many glass bottles were manufactured and embossed with information, such as the store address, name of the doctor or prescription, etc. The bottles were not restricted by any of the properties of the medicine, and thousands of glass bottles were produced. Pharmacies like Enzor's Pharmacy sold medicine in bottles like these from their opening through the Great Depression and into the modern era until plastic bottles came into production. Also known as Enzor's Drug Store and Restaurant, Enzor's was located on the block as the original Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. Enzor's opened in the old Avalon Hotel in 1925 and then reopened when the old building was razed and replaced in 1956. The pharmacy was named after William Enzor, who owned the business in the 1940s. In 1983, the business was bought by James J. Rowlison and became Rowlinson's Restaurant.
Original medicine bottles: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor Bob Carr at the First Orlando City Council Meeting in the New Orlando City Hall
Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) at the first Orlando City Council meeting in the new 1958 Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. Photographed, from left to right, are: Grace Avera, council secretary; William G. Stewart, city clerk; A. B. Herndon, Director of Public Works; George A. Baker, councilman; Claude R. Edwards (ca. 1922-2002), who later became a judge for the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida; Mayor Carr; W. M. Sanderlin (b. ca. 1925), councilman; Wilbur H. Strickland; J. Edward Greaves, Director of Finance, and John G. Baker, city attorney. The city hall was built in 1958 and was later demolished in 1991. Mayor Carr was mayor when the greatest growth took place in Orlando with Walt Disney (1901-1966) announcing plans to build the Walt Disney World Resort just outside the city. In 1967, Mayor Carr died from a heart attack while still in office.
Original color photographic print: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Colonel Michael Norman Wright McCoy and Mayor J. Rolfe Davis at Pinecastle Air Force Base
Colonel Michael Norman Wright McCoy (1905-1957), commanding officer of Pinecastle Air Force Base, with J. Rolfe Davis (1904-1988), who served as Mayor of Orlando from 1953 to 1956, at Pinecastle AFB in Orlando, Florida. Col. McCoy died in a flight demonstration of a Boeing B-47 Stratojet. The bomber had a faulty wing and crashed north of Orlando. As a result, Pinecastle Air Force Base became, McCoy Air Force Base to honor the memory of Col. McCoy. In 1974, McCoy AFB officially closed. What used to be McCoy Air Force Base is now Orlando International Airport. Some of the base property went to private companies for research purposes.
Pinecastle Air Force Base, Orlando, Florida
The cornerstone commemorative brick of the Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. From 1906 to 1924, this brick was part of Orlando Public School, located at 1 West Jackson Street. In 1922, the school was moved to a new building and Orlando City Hall and the Orlando Police Department (OPD) was moved to the old school building in 1924. In 1958, it became headquarters for the OPD and city hall was moved to a new building at 400 South Orange Avenue. On February 28, 1972, when Carl T. Langford (1918-2011) was the mayor, the cornerstone was removed for commemoration.
Original commemorative brick: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando Public School, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Orlando Police Department, Downtown Orlando, Florida
A railroad spike from the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (ACL). This railroad spike most likely came from the discontinued lines in the Orlando-Sanford area of Florida. These railways were in use from 1902 to 1967 when the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad (SCL) was formed and took control of the former ACL tracks. The railways were a main mode of transporting goods in Central Florida, until the roads were paved with the economic boom of the post-World War II era. These railroads helped the cattle, dairy, and citrus industry thrive in Central Florida and help create the economic boom in post-war years.
Original railroad spike: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Three items are from the Howard's Grocery Store, which most likely came from the location at 4200 South Orange Avenue in Downtown Orlando, Florida, between 1930 and 1980. The company has been in operation since its founding in 1912 by Julian Howard. While it is labeled as a grocery store, it is in fact a wholesale warehouse which would supply the local restaurants and grocery stores with the products requested. The other two items seem in the image are a food label for Howard's Grocery's brand of spaghetti sauce and a receipt from for a restaurant named Emerick Cafe, which ordered supplies from Howard's Grocery.
Original black and white photograph, 1912: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Original food label: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Original sales receipt, June 6, 1940: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
The newly constructed Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida, as it looked in 1958 upon its completion. Located on the southwest corner of South Orange Avenue and South Street, construction of the new city hall began in 1956 with the building fully operational two years later. Under the administration of Mayor William Beardall (1890-1984), plans for the construction of a newer and larger city hall had been in the works since as early as 1950, with the city received an advanced grant of $28,500 for what would eventually become a $1,052,500 facility. Totaling a span of 85,000 square feet, the building was eight stories high with the infrastructure required for the possibility of an additional six floors. Designed by architect Richard Boone Rogers, it would go on to replace the old Orlando Public School Building on South Orange Avenue as the main residence for the city government. The Orlando Public School Building had served as Orlando’s City Hall since 1924. On October 24, 1991, the building would be imploded to make way for the current city hall. The moment of implosion was captured on film and the footage of the blast famously used in the 1992 film Lethal Weapon 3.
Original 9 x 11 inch black and white photographic print, 1958: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
The cover from the October 1986 issue of the Central Florida magazine, which highlights the economic boom in Orlando, Florida, under Mayor Bill Frederick (b. 1934), who served as mayor from 1980 to 1992. The growing city was, during this time, facing numerous internal issues, including an inadequate sewage system, heavy traffic, and a congested metropolitan center that locals worried was detracting from the beauty of the city. Mayor Frederick was considered instrumental in implementing many structural and economic reforms from a new transportation system to the construction of major city landmarks. During his time in office, Mayor Frederick would be responsible for several major renovations, including the refurbishment of Lake Eola, the expansion of Orlando International Airport, and the erection of a new city hall. A strong supporter of education and the arts, Mayor Frederick would also work to improve public schools for the city and go on to lay the foundation necessary for the construction of what would eventually become Central Florida’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
Original magazine: Central Florida Magazine, October 1986: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Central Florida Magazine
Orlando International Airport, Orlando, Florida
Home under construction on Silver Drive in Downtown Orlando, Florida. During the 1950s and 1960s, Orlando underwent one of the biggest building booms within its history. The 1952 census of the city registered a total of 18,513 housing units within Orlando, an increase of over 6,262 new structures since the last census in 1940. New construction companies, such as Phillips Properties began building up large residential areas throughout the city, many of which still stand today. The houses of Silver Drive, which were predominantly constructed during the early 1950s, were one such example and showcases the scale of these developmental projects.
Digital reproduction of original 11 x 6 inch black and white photographic print: "The homes on Silver Drive under construction, circa 1950." Orlando Memory. http://www.orlandomemory.info/sites/default/files/styles/full_size_image/public/image_files/SD.jpeg?itok=oKgajgYL.
Silver Drive, College Park, Orlando, Florida
Mayor Carl T. Langford with Orlando Chief of Police Bob Chewning
Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011) and Chief of Police Robert Joseph Chewning (b. 1923) with the Orlando Police Department (OPD). Mayor Langford is pictured third from the left in the first row and Chief Bob Chewning is the fourth from the left. Mayor Langford was elected as Orlando's 29th mayor in 1967 when his predecessor, Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967), died in office. Mayor Langford served for over a decade as Orlando's mayor from 1967 to 1980. He helped foster Orlando's growth from a boom town in the middle of the 20th century. As one of his first acts as mayor, Mayor Langford appointed Chewning as OPD Chief of Police in 1967. Chief Chewning has previously served on the mayor’s inaugural staff and he retired as the city’s Director of Public Safety in 1976.
An aerial view of Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida, in the 1960s or 1970s. Along with city hall, several other buildings are viewable in the background, namely the American Fire and Casualty Company. The photograph is titled "This is Orlando" and contains no publishing information, dates, or discernible origin. At the bottom of the photograph, there is a sentence highlighting the cities desirable parking situation and convenient size. Accompanying this image is a plaque transcribed with a quote by Ormund Powers, whose words highlight the change the city was experiencing during that time. Powers was a journalist for The Orlando Sentinel whose career spanned seven decades.
Original black and white photographic print: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
American Fire and Casualty Company, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Glenn L. Martin Company Plant Construction
The original Martin Company plant during its construction. The site was located on Orange Blossom Trail and Sand Lake Road, about four miles south of in Orlando, Florida. The Martin Company purchased the land from the City of Orlando in 1956 for almost two million dollars. The Martin Company was a missile manufacturer that expanded to the Orlando area in 1956 to be closer to Cape Canaveral and the heart of the Space Race. While this building was under construction, a temporary building on Elwell Street was used by the Martin Company.
Digital reproduction of original black and white photographic print: "The Glenn L. Martin Company Plant Site, circa 1957." Orlando Memory. http://orlandomemory.info/memory/image/glenn-l-martin-company-plant-site-circa-1957.
Glenn L. Martin Company, Orlando, Florida
Temporary Glenn L. Martin Company Facility
A temporary building on Elwell Street used by the Martin Company while the company's main plant was being constructed on Orange Blossom Trail and Sand Lake Road in Orlando, Florida. The Martin Company was a missile manufacturer that expanded to the Orlando area in 1956 to be closer to Cape Canaveral and the heart of the Space Race. This building was previously used as a facility for the U.S. Army Air Corps and was located at the Orlando International Airport. The building remained in use by the Martin Company for several years after the completion of their main plant, which was located about four miles south of Orange Blossom Trail.
Digital reproduction of original black and white photographic print: "Martin Orlando Engineering Facility on Elwell Street in 1957." Orlando Memory. http://www.orlandomemory.info/sites/default/files/styles/full_size_image/public/image_files/MartinOrlandoElwellStreet.jpg?itok=yVLJfzUK.
Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida, as it appeared from 1958 to 1991. The building was located on the corner of South Street and Orange Avenue and acted as the place of governance for the growing Orlando area. The painting was created by James Stoll and is paired with the Orlando Remembered Exhibit located in the Orlando City Hall Building, located at 400 South Orange Avenue. The 1958 city hall was designed by Richard Boone Rogers and constructed by the C. A. Finland Company of Tampa. Dedicated on October 3, 1958, the building was faced with Tennessee marble, Minnesota granite and terrazzo stones. The Orlando Utilities Commission was located within the building from 1958 to 1967, when it moved into a $3.5 million building at 500 South Orange Ave. The Orlando Police Department (OPD) remained in the previous city hall building, which was the original Orlando Public School, across the street. In January of 1972, OPD and the city jail relocated to the Municipal Justice Building at 100 South Hughey Avenue.
Maximum Occupancy Sign at Orlando City Hall
The sign depicts the maximum occupancy for the Orlando City Council Chambers within the Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The building was located on the corner of South Street and Orange Avenue and acted as the place of governance for the growing Orlando area. The sign was created to maintain the fire safety codes which used the number of exits, as one of the fire protection features, to determine the maximum occupancy of a room. This was following the scramble for fire safety in 1956 when more than 713 calls were made concerning fires and costs overwhelming damaging the city’s wallet at an estimated overall cost of more than $300,000. City Council’s involvement with the firefighters in the city saw huge improvement in 1954 when the council approved a salary raise for the workers.
Original sign: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
The fire alarm for the fire safety system in the 1958 Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The building was located on the corner of South Street and Orange Avenue and acted as the place of governance for the growing Orlando area. The fire alarm allowed the building to fit into the newly formulated fire safety regulations, acting as one of the fire protection features. This was following the scramble for fire safety in 1956 when more than 713 calls were made concerning fires and costs overwhelming damaging the city’s wallet at an estimated overall cost of more than $300,000. City Council’s involvement with the firefighters in the city saw huge improvement in 1954 when the council approved a salary raise for the workers.
Original fire alarm: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor Carl T. Langford's Small Key to the City of Orlando
The small city key presented to Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011). Mayor Langford later presented this key to George Hill in 1973. Little information is known on who George Hill was or why he was being honor with a key to the city. Langford was elected to the Office of Mayor on March 7, 1967, to fill the vacancy left when Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) died in office. Mayor Langford served through 1980. He was a businessman who strived to follow the code of the City of Orlando and enforce all laws as they were stated. Mayor Langford played a significant role in expanding Orlando with the installation of the Orlando International Airport, which is his main legacy. He also served as mayor during the Civil Rights Movement and played a role in integrating the city. Mayor Langford created a program to help African Americans pass the required written exam to enter the police academy and he also created a policy that allowed African Americans to become firemen, which made Orlando the first city in the state of Florida to have African American firefighters.
A Minnesota Twins baseball cap. The Minnesota Twins have been part of the history of Orlando, Florida, since 1936. Originally, this baseball club was founded in 1901 as the Washington Senators. The Washington Senators spent 34 years in 11 different locations for spring training before finally coming to Orlando in 1936. From 1936 to 1942, the team played preseason games at Tinker Field. In 1943, the Senators moved to College Park, Maryland, through 1945, before returning to Tinker Field in 1946. In 1960, the team owner Calvin Griffith (1911-1999) moved his team home to Minneapolis, Minnesota, and they officially became the Minnesota Twins. The team continued spring training in Orlando until 1990.
Original baseball cap: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Metropolitan Stadium, Bloomington, Minnesota
Orlando Steam Laundry Company and Dixie Sales & Service
The Orlando Steam Laundry Company, located at 43 West Concord Avenue, and Dixie Kuhr’s Dixie Sales & Service in Orlando, Florida. Orlando Steam Laundry Co. was first established in 1900 and was officially incorporated on January 1, 1923. While originally located on Concord Ave., the company later moved to 1705 Depauw Avenue. The president was Arthur H. Hillman, the Treasurer was Bernard D. Sommers, and the Director was Sally A. Hillman. The company is no longer in business, as it shut its doors on April 16, 1975. Orlando Steam Laundry Company was a model of efficiency. Each bundle of laundry was sorted by fabric and color before being sent to the battery of washers, where each customer’s laundry was kept separate by nets and put into compartments. The clothes would be washed and the water would be removed by centrifugal extractors that were so gentle that they would not damage a single button. Rollers would finish the work to keep everything flat and then the clothes would be sent to a specific finishing machine for every different type of article of clothing. From here, they would be boxed up and sent back out to the people on one of their service cars.
Orlando Steam Laundry Company, Downtown Orlando, Florida
A model of a B-52G bomber plane from McCoy Air Force Base. The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is a long range, heavy bomber that entered military service in 1955. The primary role and purpose of the B-52 was strategic bombing and nuclear deterrence; two roles that were essential for a Cold War bomber. From 1952 to 1962, Boeing Company produced 744 B-52s. Out of those 744 B-52s built, 193 were G models. In 1961, McCoy Air Force Base in Orlando, Florida, acquired the B-52. McCoy Air Force base was a key strategic base for the U.S. Air Force’s Strategic Air Command (SAC). SAC was in charge of all strategic bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles within the continental United States. With the B-52 located at such a strategic Air Force base, it was capable of performing one of its main roles, nuclear deterrence.
Original model airplane: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall/a&gt
The Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida, in the 1960s or 1970s. During that same decade, Orlando experienced a population boom. Due to this increase in population, the city needed to expand its public buildings to accommodate the changes that were happening in the city. Prior to the construction of the fourth city hall, pictured here, the municipal government officers were housed on the top floor of the Armory Building on Jefferson Street and Orange Avenue. The Orlando Public School was built in 1906 on Jackson Street and Orange Avenue. It served its purpose as a school until the year 1922. In 1924, the City of Orlando bought the school for $115,000 and moved city hall into the empty building. Along with city hall being located here, the Orlando Police Department (OPD) and the city jail were located in the basement.
Mayor Carl T. Langford's (1918-2011) gavel, which was used to bring Orlando City Council meetings to order. The gavel is made of wood, with a metal ring attaching the handle to the head of the gavel. Mayor Langford shepherded Orlando, Florida, through a period of rapid growth due to the opening of Walt Disney World in 1917. He served as mayor from 1967 to 1980, and was known for his sense of humor and personable behavior. Mayor Langford is responsible for converting McCoy Air Force Base, which housed B-52 strategic bombers, into Orlando International Airport, which is his lasting legacy on the city.
Original gavel: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967), who served as the Mayor of Orlando, Florida, from 1956 to 1967. Mayor Carr is best known for being the first mayor in Orlando to promote civil rights while in office. He was also the first mayor to hire minority police officers to the Orlando Police Department (OPD) and established the Biracial Committee. Before he was mayor, Carr was an active businessman for 30 years in the city of Orlando, and was responsible for establishing the first Community Chest in 1938. He was a also member of the First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. Mayor Carr died while in office.