Trained Raccoon
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Animal training
description: A trained raccoon opening a gift from an employee of Weeki Wachee Springs in the 1950s. For several years, Weeki Wachee offered a "covered wagon" ride through the forest as one of the park's attractions. Along the sides of the forest were a variety of trained or caged animals for the visitors to see. This included two trained raccoons, who opened various boxes and tins for treats. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Bonnie Georgiadis and Weeki Wachee Mermaids
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
description: Bonnie Georgiadis and three other Weeki Wachee mermaids training for future performances by practicing a pose. Bonnie Georgiadis was a mermaid from 1950 to 1968. After retiring from underwater theater, she took on other responsibilities at the park, working a total of 37 years. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid with Report Card
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
description: A Weeki Wachee Springs mermaid posing underwater with a report card. The card includes grades for bathing, ballet, breathing and boys. Weeki Wachee Springs is a state park that opened to the public in October of 1949 by Newton Perry along with a group of investors. This attraction opened as the roadside era of Florida was ramping up and consisted of an amalgamation of vendors including an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction- the mermaid show that took place in an underwater theatre. The attraction grew to include The May Museum of the Tropics, an ‘abandoned Seminole village’, a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo. As theme parks became the new norm for Florida’s tourist industry, Weeki Wachee Springs steadily declined until the state of Florida absorbed the attraction into the state park system in 2008. The attraction now focuses on appealing to a modern audience, while still preserving its rich history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Ann Tanzler with Weeki Wachee Mermaids and Press Release
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
description: Ann Tanzler, wife of Jacksonville Mayor Hans G. Tanzler, putting on a diving mask with the aid of two Weeki Wachee mermaids. An accompanying press release sent out on November 22, 1971, describes the busy life of Ann Tanzler, who, on top of being a homemaker, mother and qualified parachuter, was being trained in the art of underwater ballet. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
creator: News Bureau
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
source: 1-page press release by News Bureau, November 22,1971: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: application/pdf
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Rita King with Juvenile Alligators
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Alligators
description: Rita King, mermaid at Weeki Wachee Springs, holding two juvenile alligators. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
contributor: King, Rita
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaids with Boar on Leash
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Animal training
description: Two mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs walking a young boar on a leash. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

John Hamlet with Boar
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Animal training
description: John Hamlet, naturalist, placing his hand into a trained boar's mouth as part of an attraction at Weeki Wachee Springs. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Baboon and Raccoon from Weeki Wachee's Jungle Cruise
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Animal training
description: A raccoon and caged baboon on the river bank of the Weeki Wachee River. This river was used for Weeki Wachee Spring's Jungle Cruise attraction. This attraction would take guests down the river in a glass bottom boat, where they would observe caged animals along the river's edge. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Mermaid Villa
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
description: The Mermaid Villa building at Weeki Wachee Springs. Mermaids used the building to change into their costumes for their underwater performances, shower after their performances, and lounge while on break. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Greetings from Weeki Wachee, Florida
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Hotels--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
description: A postcard depicting several Weeki Wachee mermaids lounging around the pool of the local Holiday Inn with the words "Greetings From Weeki Wachee, Florida" printed on the front. The back of the postcard features an ad for the Holiday Inn that lists the hotels amenities and location. The postcard was mailed with an 8 cent Eisenhower stamp to Randolph, New York, in 1975. The author, Helen, describes her activities in Florida. She went swimming and was planning to go to the Red Fish for dinner. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Holiday Inn
creator: Long, Claude
creator: Curteich Color
source: Original color postcard by Holiday Inn, Claude Long and Curteich Color: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
contributor: Chase, Helen
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Images
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida
coverage: Brooksville, Florida

Mermaid Motel
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Hotels--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
description: A postcard showcasing the lobby of the Mermaid Motel, which was located directly across the street from Weeki Wachee Springs. Two cars are parked under a pavilion next to the building. The back of the postcard features an add that describes the amenities of the motel, including comfortable rooms and a restaurant. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
creator: Florida Natural Color
creator: Mermaid Motel
source: Original color postcard by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher, Florida Natural Color and Mermaid Motel: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Images
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida
coverage: Brooksville, Florida

Sinclair Gas Station
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
subject: Service stations
description: A postcard featuring the dinosaur-shaped Sinclair Gas Station in Weeki Wachee Springs. A handwritten note by Bonita Colson accompanies the postcard, describing a mobile home rental park across the street from the gas station that Weeki Wachee mermaids would frequently rent. She also notes that the dinosaur-shaped gas station was the only one of its kind in the world. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history. The Sinclair Oil Corporation was founded on May 1, 1916. The corporation created dinosaur exhibits in several world's fairs that featured a brontosaurus, which was the company's mascot. Other promotional materials featuring the dinosaur included bobble head toys and inflatables.
creator: Sinclair Oil Corporation
creator: Bonita Colson
source: Original color postcard Sinclair Oil Corporation and original handwritten note by Bonita Colson: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Images
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida
coverage: Sinclair Gas Station, Brooksville Florida

Bonnie Georgiadis
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Excavations (Archaeology)--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
description: Bonnie Georgiadis assisting an archeological dig of a Native American burial mound at Weeki Wachee Springs in July of 1970. She is using archeological tools to uncover a vase. The dig was conducted by the University of Florida. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original color photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

General Company Rules for Mermaids, Swimmers & Trainees
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Employee handbooks
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
description: Weeki Wachee Springs employee handbook for mermaids, swimmers and trainees. The first four pages detail scheduling rules, dress code and rules of conduct. Some of the rules for mermaids cover what makeup to wear in and out of the water, where to keep bathing suits and costumes, how to act in the villa, how to announce the shows, as well as how to act in public when off duty. Pages 5-10 detail safety measures for diving. There are rules for how to care for the sinus, answers to an air lock test, and a list of diving diseases and their symptoms. Weeki Wachee Springs is a state park that opened to the public in October of 1949 by Newton Perry along with a group of investors. This attraction opened as the roadside era of Florida was ramping up and consisted of an amalgamation of vendors including an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction- the mermaid show that took place in an underwater theatre. The attraction grew to include The May Museum of the Tropics, an ‘abandoned Seminole village’, an show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo. As theme parks became the new norm for Florida’s tourist industry, Weeki Wachee Springs began steadily declining until the state of Florida absorbed the attraction into the state park system in 2008. The attraction now focuses on appealing to a modern audience, while still preserving its rich history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Springs
source: 10-page typewritten handbook by Weeki Wachee Springs, c.1950s: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: application/pdf
language: eng
type: Still Images
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from John M. May to Directors of St. Petersburg Springs Co (January 28, 1957)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from the owner of the May Museum of the Tropics, John M. May, to the directors of the St. Petersburg Springs Co., owners of Weeki Wachee Springs, dated January 28, 1957. May discusses his concerns with management and inquires about construction plans. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John M.
source: Original 1-page typewritten letter from John M. May to Directors of St. Petersburg Springs Co, January 28, 1957: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from Myrtle Colson to John M. May (March 28, 1956)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from Myrtle Colson, manager of the May Museum of the Tropics, to the owner of the museum, John M. May, dated March 28, 1956. Myrtle writes that earlier in the day, she allowed an African-American couple to enter the museum, as he had instructed employees to do. Later in the day, after news spread to Joe Seltzer, manager of Weeki Wachee Springs, he reprimanded her and instructed her not to let any other African-Americans in the museum. He also told her to put up a sign that read, "We reserve the right to refuse admission to anyone". Myrtle writes that she tried to defend her decision, citing a Supreme Court decision, to which Seltzer replied that the decision did not apply to the Springs. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Si…
creator: Colson, Myrtle
source: Original 2-page typewritten letter from Myrtle Colson to John M. May, March 28, 1956: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: application/pdf
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from Myrtle Colson to John M. May (February 25, 1959)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from Myrtle Colson, manager of the May Museum of the Tropics, to the owner of the museum, John M. May, dated February 25, 1959. Colson discusses a surprise audit from the owners of Weeki Wachee, The Florida Chain of Theaters. She writes that a comptroller visited the museum, inquiring about the museum's accounting books and records of business. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Colson, Myrtle
source: Original 2-page typewritten letter from Myrtle Colson to John M. May, February 25, 1959: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: application/pdf
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from John M. May to John T. Greighten (November 20, 1963)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from John M. May, owner of the May Museum of the Tropics, to John T. Creighten, an employee of the Department of Entomology at the University fo Florida, dated November 20, 1963. replying to Mr. Creighten's interest in the museum and its collection. In response to Creighten's interest in the museum and its collection, May invited him to visit. May points out that the museum would close permanently that December due to decisions made by the owners of Weeki Wachee Springs. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John M.
source: Original 1-page typewritten letter from John M. May to John T. Greighten, November 20, 1963: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from Myrtle Colson to John M. May (June 1, 1958)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from Myrtle Colson, manager of the May Museum of the Tropics, to the owner of the museum, John M. May, dated June 1, 1958. Colson tells May about the increasing sales to the museum due to efforts of the new owner of Weeki Wachee Springs, and discusses a new employee. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Colson, Myrtle
source: Original 1-page typewritten letter from Myrtle Colson to John M. May, June 1, 1958: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from John M. May to Myrtle Colson (September 27, 1958)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from John M. May, owner of the May Museum of the Tropics, to the manager of the museum, Myrtle Colson, dated September 27, 1958. May reassures Colson that she is doing fine, expressing remorse for the losing an employee and hope that their replacement is a good fit for the position. May also mentions that he is working on creating a sculpture of a hercules beetle that he plans to place in front of the museum to help drum up business. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John M.
source: Original 1-page typewritten letter from John M. May to Myrtle Colson, September 27, 1958: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Orchid Gardens at Weeki Wachee Springs
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: Orchid Gardens at Weeki Wachee Springs. The hothouse, which allowed visitors to view a variety of orchids, was one of the original attractions to join the mermaid show at Weeki Wachee Springs. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John M.
source: Original black and white photograph by John M. May: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Orchid Gardens, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

John May Building the May Museum of the Tropics
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: John May at the foundation of the May Museum of the Tropics at Weeki Wachee Springs, Florida. The date written on the photograph is November 20th, 1953. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
source: Original black and white photograph: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Sunbathing at Weeki Wachee Springs
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
description: A postcard of Weeki Wachee Springs sometime in the late 1950s. Louise Nan Steer mentions this postcard in her oral history interview because the blonde girl in the pink bathing suit in the center of the postcard is her twin sister, Lynda. The rest of the women are mermaids that worked at the park. Louise stated that several times during photoshoots, the photographer would gather whoever was available to fill the shot. This is how Lynda became a part of the postcard even though she was not a Weeki Wachee mermaid. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Springs
source: Original 3.5 x 5 color postcard by Weeki Wachee Springs: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: Weeki Wachee Springs
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Employee Rules and Regulations for the May Museum of the Tropics
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Employee handbooks
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: Six pages of the May Museum of the Tropics employee handbook. The owner of the museum, John May, created the handbook for his employees to follow in the 1960s. The table of contents on the first three pages gives insight to what is included in the missing pages of the handbook. The other three pages explain how employees should approach the public, list what actions are and are not permitted, and provide instructions for handling an emergency. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John
source: Original 8-page typewritten handbook by John May: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: May Natural History Museum
format: application/pdf
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from Myrtle Colson to John May (February 11, 1961)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from the manager of the the May Museum of the Tropics, Myrtle Colson, to the owner of the museum, John May. The letter details concerns that the manager was having with an employee as well as her complaints about being excluded from certain business matters. As John May lived in Colorado and the May Museum of the Tropics was located in Florida, communication between employer, employees, and other staff at Weeki Wachee Springs was limited predominantly to letters of correspondence. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Colson, Myrtle
source: Original 3-page letter from Myrtle Colson to John May, February 11, 1961: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: application/pdf
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Construction of Hercules Beetle Sculpture at Weeki Wachee Springs
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
description: A team of people guide the placement of a Hercules beetle sculpture in the 1950s. A crane lowers the sculpture in place near the May Museum of the Tropics at Weeki Wachee Springs, Florida. The large beetle sculpture served as an advertisement to attract visitors to the museum. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John
source: Original black and white photograph by John May: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Entrance to the May Museum of the Tropics
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: The entrance of the May Museum of the Tropics. Faux thatched roof, tiki sculptures, and a list of countries the insects in the collection came from adorn the space, giving it an exotic feel. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John
source: Original black and white photograph by John May: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Inside the May Museum of the Tropics
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: The original interior of the May Museum of the Tropics in the 1950s. In the months following the photograph, several specimen began to droop and wilt in the cases due to humidity. The owner, John May, was forced to hand make new display cases out of metal and attach them to a dehumidifier. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John
source: Original black and white photograph by John May: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from John May to Joe and Martha Seltzer (February 25, 1962)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from John May to Joe and Martha Seltzer, the management of Weeki Wachee Springs. The letter details May's sadness that Seltzer was resigning. May expresses that he hopes to remain in contact and that Seltzer and his wife can leave their things in a back room in the museum temporarily while they look for a new place. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John
source: Original letter from John May to Joe and Martha Seltzer, February 25, 1962: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: May Museum, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

May Museum Exhibit
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Buildings--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: The original interior of the May Museum of the Tropics. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Elmer "Sparky"
source: Original black and white photograph by Elmer "Sparky" Schumacher: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: C
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: May Museum, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Weeki Wachee Live Mermaids
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
description: A small poster for Weeki Wachee Springs. The background of the poster is black, featuring a cartoon mermaid and three fish. The text reads, "Weeki Wachee Live Mermaids. U.S. 19 and Florida 50." Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
source: Original color poster: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from Gaye Guinta to Delee Perry (March 31, 1997)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Motion pictures--Production and direction
subject: Underwater photography
subject: Florida--In motion pictures
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
description: A letter dated March 31, 1997, from the director of the Museum of Florida History, Gaye Guita, to Delee Perry. In the letter, printed on Florida Department of State letterhead, Gaye Guita invites Delee Perry to attend the opening reception for an new exhibit about Florida's film heritage at the Museum of Florida History on April 6, 1997. This exhibit featured and was dedicated to the memory of Perry's father, Newton "Newt" Perry, and Guita thanks Perry for her assistance with the exhibit. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s …
creator: Guinta, Gaye
source: Original 1-page letter from Gaye Guinta to Delee Perry, March 31, 1997: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: Museum of Florida History, Tallahassee, Florida
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from Val Darling to Newton "Newt" Perry (March 26, 1981)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Sports--Florida
subject: Athletes--United States
subject: Swimming--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
description: A letter dated March 26, 1981, from the Acting Chairman of the Florida Sports Hall of Fame, Val Darling, to Newton "Newt" Perry, informing Perry of his selection to the Florida Sports Hall of Fame for his "immense contributions to the world of sports" and inviting him to an induction ceremony on April 17, 1981. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. …
creator: Darling, Val
source: Original 1-page letter from Val Darling to Newton "Newt" Perry, March 26, 1981: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: Florida Sports Hall of Fame, Cypress Garden, Florida
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Weekiwachee Spring
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
subject: Underwater photography
description: Advertising card for Weekiwachee Spring from around 1950. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter, Delee Perry, took over Perry's swim school following her father's death in 1987. It was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
source: Original Weeki Wachee Springs State Park advertising card, ca. 1950: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Eileen Perry Hogshead
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
subject: Underwater photography
description: A signed photograph of Eileen Perry Hogshead, the daughter of Newton "Newt" Perry, aged fourteen, as a Weeki Wachee Mermaid. The photograph was taken by Newton Perry around 1950. On the reverse of the photograph is a hand-written caption by Newton. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter, Delee Perry, took over Perry's swim school following her father's death in 1987. It was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience…
creator: Perry, Newton
source: Original photograph of Eileen Perry Hogshead, ca. 1950: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Images
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Exterior of Underwater Theater at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
description: An exterior photograph of the underwater theater at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Florida, around 1950. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Perry, Newton
source: Original photograph of underwater theater at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Mermaid Swimming in Front of an Underwater Filming Tank Designed by Newton "Newt" Perry
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Motion pictures--Production and direction
subject: Underwater photography
subject: Florida--In motion pictures
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
subject: Underwater cinematography--Equipment and supplies
description: A photograph of a mermaid swimming in front of an underwater filming tank created by Newton "Newt" Perry some time between 1950 and 1970. The photograph may be either from Weeki Wachee Springs State Park or from Newton "Newt" Perry's career as an underwater filmmaker. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealin…
creator: Perry, Newton
source: Original photograph of underwater filming tank, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Underwater Diver in Diving Suit
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Motion pictures--Production and direction
subject: Underwater photography
subject: Florida--In motion pictures
subject: Diving
subject: Diving suits
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
subject: Underwater cinematography--Equipment and supplies
description: Photograph of underwater diver in diving suit with a sunken treasure chest, some time between 1950 and1970. The photograph may be either from Weeki Wachee Springs State Park or from Newton "Newt" Perry's career as an underwater filmmaker. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while p…
creator: Perry, Newton
source: Original photograph of underwater diver in diving suit, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Swimming Area at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
description: A photograph of a swimming area with bathers in front of a building at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Florida, around 1950. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Perry, Newton
source: Original photograph of swimmers at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, ca. 1950: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Newton "Newt" Perry Filming Underwater
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Motion pictures--Production and direction
subject: Underwater photography
subject: Florida--In motion pictures
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
subject: Underwater cinematography--Equipment and supplies
subject: Diving
subject: Diving suits
description: A photograph of an underwater filming scene showing Newton "Newt" Perry in a diving helmet at an underwater camera, some time between 1950 and 1970. This photograph may be either from Weeki Wachee Springs State Park or from Newton "Newt" Perry's career as an underwater filmmaker. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused…
creator: Perry, Newton
source: Original photograph of underwater filming scene, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Stock Letter for Those Interested in Becoming Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaids, sent to Becky Young in 1972
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: A typed stock letter sent to Becky Young in 1972 alongside an application for a position as a mermaid. The letter is typed on Weeki Wachee letterhead, which has an image of two performers in a pose underwater as the background. Signed by the Mermaid Supervisor Genie Young, the letter thanks applicants for their interest in the position and gives an overview of the job description and pay schedule. The letter ends asking applicants to send the application and a photograph of themselves back to Genie Young. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Young, Genie
source: Original letter from Genie Young to Becky Young, c.1973: Private Collection of Becky Young.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Note from Manager of Weeki Wachee to Becky Young Requesting Interview
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: A typed note on card stock the size of a business card sent to Rebecca Young from Weeki Wachee Springs, requesting her to come by for an interview. Text reads, "Rebecca: Come up as soon as you can for water test and pre-employment interview." The name of the person who sent the note is obscured. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original note from Weeki Wachee Springs to Becky Young, 1973: Private Collection of Becky Young.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Courtesy Admission Ticket to Weeki Wachee Springs
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: A courtesy admission ticket to Weeki Wachee Springs, good for one free viewing of an underwater show. The ticket was given to Rebecca Young (then Rebecca Stalhart) on the day of her pre-employment interview and water test, February 20, 1973. Rebecca was interviewing for a position as mermaid Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original admission ticket to Weeki Wachee Springs, February 20, 1973: Private Collection of Becky Young.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Newspaper Article Announcing the Employment of Rebecca Young as a Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaid
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: A newspaper article published on February 22, 1973, in the Marshalltown Times-Republican announcing Rebecca Young's (then Rebecca Stalhhut) employment as a Weeki Wachee Mermaid. The article reads, "Becky Stahlhut, a mid-term graduate of Marshalltown High School has been accepted to swim as a mermaid in the world famous Spring of Live Mermaids at Weeki Wachi [sic], Fla. She was a member of the MHS girls swim team, synchronized swim group, intructor and life guard at the YMCA and on the Y swim team. Becky is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ron Stalhhut of St. Petersburg, Fla., formerly of Marshalltown." Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Marshalltown Times-Republican
source: Original Newspaper Article: "Miss Stahlhut To be 'Mermaid'", Marshalltown Times-Republican article, February 22,1973: Private Collection of Becky Young.
publisher: Marshalltown Times-Republican
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Hand-written Note Admitting Becky Young into Weeki Wachee Springs for Interview
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Hand-written note from mermaid manager Genie Young to Pat, requesting Becky Young's addmitance into Weeki Wachee Springs. The note reads, " Pat, Please admit Becky- She is a try-out and hopefully trainee." Becky was interviewing to become a mermaid. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
creator: Young, Genie
source: Original note written by Genie Young, February 20, 1973: Private Collection of Becky Young.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaid Performance Evaluation Sheet
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Performance evaluation of Geanie Brooks. The text reads: "Geanie 1. Dive 2. Introduction – Not long enough 3. Length of time replacing face mask 4. Back Dolphin – Not centered 5. Surface to Limb – check mark 6. Swim to buoyancy position – okay check mark 7. Buoyancy – check mark 8. Swim to fish feeding – check mark 9. Fish feeding – check mark 10. Swim to limb – check mark 11. Asking in – check mark 12. Eating – check mark 13. Drinking 14. Clearing face mask – check mark 15. Getting off limb – check mark 16. Double hose breathing – hands a. 1st position 2nd position 3rd position 17. Swim to stage 18. Asking in: positions – good, gestures – good, coming over the top – good 19. Bringing hose to deep dive girl 20. Deep dive: swim to hole – check, descent to stick – not profile -, ballet positions – check mark, ballet- could be smoother – get in standing position before going into arab (arabesque), length of deep dive – could be longer 21. Stage ballet 22. Adagio - good 23. Rating of show – good 24. Comments" Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
creator: Young, Genie
source: Original performance evaluation of Geanie Brooks, c. 1960s: Private collection of Shirley Herdge.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

New Basis of Pay for Mermaids Effective August 1, 1956
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: A three-page document given to mermaid Geanie Brooks detailing updated pay rates for Weeki Wachee Mermaids, effective August 1, 1956. The document expresses that the pay increase was made in order to attract better performers and better retain current staff. Mermaids were still going to be paid per show, and still required to take promotional photos and photos with visitors for no additional pay. Under the new rules, mermaids were going to be paid $2.30 per unit. The pay per unit would increase ten cents every month a mermaid performs until it reached the maximum rate of $4.70. Performing a show equaled one unit, and performing extra duties qualified mermaids for exta partial units. There were other ways to make money at Weeki Wachee, including training new mermaids. When a trainee performed their first show, the trainer would recieve $100. If the trainee didn't qualify, the trainer received $25. Trainees were paid $75 a month, plus room and board. After passing training, they would become extras in shows. In this position, they would make $170 a month. When a position of mermaid opened up, the extra who had been an extra the longest would move up. Mermaids received double pay for working on holidays. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern …
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original two-page document "New Basis of Pay for Mermaids Effective August 1, 1956," 1956: Private collection of Shirley Herdge.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/pdf
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Arlene Brooks Practicing Ballet in the Mermaid Villa
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Three strips of safety film with twelve photographs showing Arlene Brooks in several ballet positions. The photographs are assumed to be taken by Weeki Wachee's resident photographer, Sparky Schumacher. These photos were taken in the 1960s. Practicing moves out of the water is just as important as practicing moves underwater. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
creator: Schumacher, Sparky
source: Original Kodak Safety Film strips, 12 photographs, c. 1960s: Private collection of Arlene Brooks.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Rita King Performing at a Mermaid Reunion
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Photograph of Rita King, a mermaid at Weeki Wachee Springs, dancing on a platform as a band plays. This event was one of the many mermaid reunions that Weeki Wachee Springs hosted, where they invited former mermaids to attend special events. This particular reunion occured in the 1960s. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Rita King, December 1, 1960: Private collection of Rita King.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Document Detailing the Acrobatic Routine Performed by Rita King at a Weeki Wachee Mermaid Reunion
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: This document lists the choreography of the acrobatic routine Rita King (then Rita McKenna) performed at one of the Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaid Reunions. This event was one of the many mermaid reunions that Weeki Wachee Springs hosted, where they invited former mermaids to attend special events. This particular reunion happened on December 1, 1960. Text cut off at the top of the image reads, "Acrobatic Dance Routine for a Mermaid Reunion Show - Age 21." Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original two-page document of choreography, December 1, 1960: Private collection of Rita King.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/pdf
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

1969 Weeki Wachee Springs Annual Mermaid Reunion Schedule
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: For many years, Weeki Wachee Springs held an annual reunion with their former mermaids. The 1969 reunion schedule gives an overview of the events held throughout these reunions, including a swimming race across the spring, an underwater show performed by former mermaids, a lunch, costume contest, award ceremony, film screening, and farewells. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original schedule "Time Table -- 1969 Mermaid Annual Reunion", 1969: Private collection of Arlene Brooks.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Recap of Weeki Wachee Spring's 1969 Annual Mermaid Reunion
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: "Weeki Wachee Calling" is a 4-page pictoral report of the 9th annual Weeki Wachee Spring's Mermaid Reunion. The first page is written as if it is a telegram and thanks guests for attending as well as informing them of the next reunion in 1970. Over the next 2 pages are 15 photos from the event along with the winners of all of the games and contests that were held during the event. The last page lists the attendance roster. A totall of 130 participated in the event. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original four-page document "Weeki Wachee Calling," 1969: Private collection of Shirley Herdge.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/pdf
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Lauren Dodson Posing in her Mermaid Uniform at the Weeki Wachee Springs Docks
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Weeki Wachee Springs mermaid Lauren Dodson in costume with a mermaid tail on posing on the dock of the spring. Lauren Dodson was a mermaid from 2007 to 2012 and is the daughter of Lydia Dodson, who was a Weeki Wachee mermaid in the 1970s. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original color photogrpah of Lauren Dodson, 2007: Private collection of Lydia Dodson.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/pdf
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Florence McNabb Posing Underwater in Costume
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Photograph of Florence McNabb posing underwater in a mermaid costume at Weeki Wachee Springs in the 1950s. Florence was the daughter of Ed and Vera Gothberg, who owned the Mermaid Motel that was across the street from Weeki Wachee Springs until 1966. At this time, mermaid tails were mainly used in promotional photos and rarely used during shows. This was because shows at the time mainly consisted of ballet routines. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original Black and white photograph of Florence McNabb, c. 1950s: Collection of Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Florence McNabb, Charles McNabb, and Their Two Sons, David and Michael, Leaving Church
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Black and white photograph of Florence McNabb, husband Charles McNabb, and their two sons, Michael and David, leaving church. Florence is shaking their minister's hand. Florence McNabb was a Weeki Wachee Mermaid in the 1950s. Her husband also worked at Weeki Wachee. They married in 1951. In 1963, the McNabb's car was struck by a drunk driver, killing Florence and Michael and severely injuring Charles and David. Decades later in 2006, someone picking debris out of the Weeki Wachee Springs found an anklet with "Florence" engraved on one side and "Charlie" engraved on the other. Former mermaid and co-worker of Florence McNabb Vicki Smith confirmed that Florence had lost the anklet during a show. Years later, a friend of David McNabb found a large box of Weeki Wachee emphemera and family pictures when he helped to clean out David's home after David passed away. This friend passed the box on to his daughter, who donated the artifacts to Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
source: Original black and white photograph of Florence McNabb and family, c. 1950s: Collection of Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Florence and Charles McNabb Holding Trophies won During a Diving Competition
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Photograph of Florence and Charles McNabb holding trophies they won at an amateur skin diving competition at Rainbow Springs. The couple both worked at Weeki Wachee Springs, and would often participate in swimming competitions. In this competition, the couple both won first place in their respective gender classes. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
source: Original Black and White photograph of Florence McNabb and family, c. 1950s: Collection of Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Business Card of E. D. Gothberg, Owner of Weeki Wachee Motor Lodge
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Business card of E. D. Gothberg, owner and operator of Weeki Wachee Motor Lodge and Mermaid Motel. The Weeki Wachee Motor Lodge was located near the attraction and the motel was directly across from Weeki Wachee Springs. Many mermaids lived in the motor lodge. E. D. Gothberg owned the motel until 1966, when Holiday Inn was put in the motel's place. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Gothberg, E. D.
source: Original business card of E. D. Gothberg, c. 1950s: Collection of Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Bonnie Georgiadis in the lobby of the Mermaid Motel Speaking to Guests
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaid Bonnie Georgiadis in uniform (wearing an Alix of Miami Swimsuit) speaking to guests in the lobby of the Mermaid Motel. Behind Bonnie are rows of guest books, one for each state for visitors to the motel to sign into. The Mermaid Motel was directly across the street from Weeki Wachee Springs and operated from 1951 - 1966, when the motel changed hands to Holiday Inn. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Mermaid Motel
source: Original black and white photograph of Bonnie Georgiadis in the Mermaid Motel, c. 1950s-60s: Collection of Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Springs' Original Underwater Theater
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Weeki Wachee's original underwater theater. Photogrpah taken in 1959. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Family of Gail Anderson
source: Original Black and white photograph of Weeki Wachee Underwater Theater, January, 1959: Private Collection of Gail Anderson.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Three Weeki Wachee Mermaids Performing Underwater
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Postcard depicting three Weeki Wachee Mermaids performing in a show. Two of the mermaids are dressed up in leis and hula skirts and the other is wearing a Hawaiian shirt playing a ukelele. Mermaids are standing on a metal platform that is a hydraulic lift. The platform moved up and down. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original postcard of Weeki Wachee Mermaids Mid-Performance, c. 1960s: Private Collection of Arlene Brooks.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Company Van
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Photograph of the Volkswagen van that Weeki Wachee used to bus employees to the springs. The van is parked in from of the Weeki Wachee entrance sign. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Black and White Photograph of Weeki Wachee's Employee Van, c. 1950s: Private Collection of Shirley Herdge.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Map of Weeki Wachee after ABC Bought the Attraction
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: This map is a part of a booklet about Weeki Wachee Springs. The booklet was made sometime after the corporation American Broadcasting Company (ABC) purchased the park. The map also shows the underwater theater, labeled D, as having a flat roof. This remodel covered up the original clam shell roof the theater had. In the mid-1970s, the park was rethemed and many of the attractions took on a South Pacific look. In 2014, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection began an endeavor to uncover the original roof. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original color Weeki Wachee brochure, fourteen pages, c. 1970s: Private Collection of Rebecca Young.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/pdf
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Springs Gift Shop
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Black and white photograph of a portion of Weeki Wachee's gift shop, taken in the 1960s. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
creator: Schumacher, Sparky
source: Black and White Kodak Safety Film strip, c. 1960s: Weeki Wachee Springs Collection.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Florence McNabb Drinking an RC Cola Underwater
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Weeki Wachee Mermaid Florence McNabb drinking an RC Cola underwater in the 1960s. Florence is kneeling on some seagrass, holding the airhose to her side. Weeki Wachee mermaids drank soda and ate bananas during their shows, before the mermaid shows became plays. At one point, RC Cola sponsored Weeki Wachee. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original Black and white photograph of Florence McNabb drinking RC Cola, c.1960s: Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs Collection.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Letter from Dorothy Gray, Ltd. Publicity Director Mayreen Logan to Weeki Wachee Mermaid Rebecca Stahlhut Thanking Her for Modeling Their Products
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Letter written by Dorothy Gray, Ltd. Publicity Director Maureen Logan to Weeki Wachee Mermaid Rebecca Stahlhut (later Rebecca Young). The letter was written on April 24, 1975. In the letter Maureen thanks Rebecca for modeling Dorothy Gray products, and lets Rebecca know that Dorothy sent the mermaids a bunch of their products as a thank you. Dorothy Gray was a company that sold skin care products and makeup. In the years after ABC purchased Weeki Wachee Springs and grew the attraction, many makeup, swimsuit, and swimwear products partnered with Weeki Wachee Springs to advertise their brands. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Logan, Maureen
creator: Dorothy Gray, Ltd.
source: Original letter of thanks from Dorothy Gray, Ltd. to Rebecca Stahlhut, April 24, 1975: Private Collection of Rebecca Young.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Bicentennial Edition of Weeki Wachee Springs' Trifold Brochure, Featuring Mermaid Rebecca Young
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Bicentennial edition of Weeki Wachee Springs' trifold brochure, c. 1976. The mermaid mock playing the flute is Rebecca Young (previously Stahlhut). This photoshoot is the one she is most proud of from her time as a Weeki Wachee Mermaid. The photoshoot took several hours just to this this one picture, as everyone's hair, costumes, and the flag had to be in correct positions. The inside of the brochure lists the attractions and mentions the special "salute to the Bicentennial, 'Happy Birthday America!'" Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original color Weeki Wachee Springs trifold, Bicentennial Edition, c. 1976: Private Collection of Rebecca Young.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/pdf
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Mermaid Trainer Bonnie Georgiadis Displaying Proper Form for 6 Trainees
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Mermaid Trainer Bonnie Georgiadis training six mermaids on proper form of a position for a publicity photo. Bonnie Georgiadis worked at Weeki Wachee for a total of 37 years. 13 years as a mermaid and trainer, 7 as a show producer and choreographer, and the rest of her time at the park as the bird department's manager. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original sepia tone photogrpah of Bonnie Georgiadis and Trainees, c. 1960s: Private Collection of Sharon Cihak Elliot.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Bonnie Georgiadis Releasing Rehabilitated Bald Eagle
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Weeki Wachee Springs Bird Department Manager Bonnie Georgiadis about to release one of the two bald eagles she helped rehabilitate. She rehabilitated an eagle in 1985. The eagle got caught in some barbed wire and broke its collarbone at a cattle ranch near Weeki Wachee. The 4-year-old female dubbed Victoria recovered at Busch Gardens for four months and was then sent to Weeki Wachee to be rehabilitated for two months. In order to retrain the eagle, Bonnie had to train the bird to fly short distances from perch to perch and reward Victoria with treats. Bonnie Georgiadis worked at Weeki Wachee for a total of 37 years. 13 years as a mermaid and trainer, 7 as a show producer and choreographer, and the rest of her time at the park as the bird department's manager. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original color photograph of Bonnie Georgiadis and Bald Eagle, c. 1980s: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Collection.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Bonnie Georgiadis Announcing a Show
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Mermaid Bonnier Georgiadis sitting on the edge of the underwater theater's windows holding a microphone, announcing a show. Two mermaids are pictured behind her in mid pose. Bonnie Georgiadis worked at Weeki Wachee for a total of 37 years. 13 years as a mermaid and trainer, 7 as a show producer and choreographer, and the rest of her time at the park as the bird department's manager. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original black and white photograph of Bonnie Georgiadis and Mermaids, c. 1960s: Private Collection of Sharon Cihak Elliot.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Bonnie Georgiadis at an Archeological dig at Weeki Wachee Springs, July, 1970.
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
subject: Burial--United States--History
subject: Native American art and culture
subject: Archeological investigations
subject: University of Florida
description: Bonnie Georgiadis assisting an archeological dig of a Native American burial mound at Weeki Wachee Springs in July of 1970. She is using archeological tools to uncover a vase. The dig was conducted by the University of Florida. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Schumacher, Sparky
source: Original color photograph by Sparky Schumacher, July,1970: Private Collection of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Geanie L. W. Brooks in her Welding Uniform at the McCloskey Shipyard in Tampa during WWII
description: Geanie L. W. Brooks in her welding uniform at the McCloskey Shipyard. Geanie learned how to weld and work with heavy machinery at this shipyard during World War II. McCloskey Shipyard paid welding trainees 63 cents and hour to train there and 17% of their workforce during the war were women, which was twice the national figure. In the 1950s, Geanie worked as a waitress at the Patio Restuarant at Weeki Wachee Springs and later became a mermaid. She left this position in 1957. After Weeki Wachee, Geanie drove bulldozers, repaired bulldozer tracks, and drove a dump trunk. Even later, she worked as a bookkeeper, real estate agent, bowling instructor, and department store manager. Her last job was at Home Depot. She left the workforce upon turning 80 years old. According to a two-page life story Geanie wrote, "My family thought I was 'liberated' before anyone had even heard of 'women's liberation.' I always knew men made more money than women, so I applied for men's jobs, knew what they made, asked for it, and got it. (Can't hurt to ask right?) Sometimes I even made more, if I was able to get a percentage of a dumptruck haul." Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
source: Original black and white photograph of Geanie L.W. Brooks, c.1940s: Private Collection of Shirley Herdge.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Geanie L.W. Brooks in Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaid Uniform Operating a Caterpillar D-7 Bulldozer
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
subject: Burial--United States--History
subject: Native American art and culture
subject: Archeological investigations
subject: University of Florida
description: Geanie L. W. Brooks in her Weeki Wachee uniform (a swimsuit) operating a Caterpillar D-7 bulldozer. Geanie learned how to operate heavy machinery at the McCloskey Shipyard during World War II. In the 1950s, Geanie worked as a waitress at the Patio Restuarant at Weeki Wachee Springs and later became a mermaid. She left this position in 1957. After Weeki Wachee, Geanie drove bulldozers, repaired bulldozer tracks, and drove a dump trunk. Even later she worked as a bookkeeper, real estate agent, bowling instructor, and department store manager. Her last job was at Home Depot, she left the workforce upon turning eighty-years-old. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
source: Original Black and white photograph of Geanie Brooks on a bulldozer, c. 1950s: Private Collection of Shirley Herdge.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Geanie L.W. Brooks with her Four Children in Front of Weeki Wachee's Mermaid Villa
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Weeki Wachee Mermaid Geanie L. W. Brooks and her four children, 2 sons and 2 daughters, sitting under a Weeki Wachee Sign outside of the Mermaid Villa. Geanie learned how to weld andoperate heavy machinery at the McCloskey Shipyard during World War II. In the 1950s, Geanie worked as a waitress at the Patio Restuarant at Weeki Wachee Springs and later became a mermaid. She left this position in 1957. After Weeki Wachee, Geanie drove bulldozers, repaired bulldozer tracks, and drove a dump trunk. Even later she worked as a bookkeeper, real estate agent, bowling instructor, and department store manager. Her last job was at Home Depot, she left the workforce upon turning eighty-years-old. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original Black and white photograph of Geanie Brooks and her children, c.1950s: Private Collection of Shirley Herdge.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
language: eng
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Mermaid Geanie L.W. Brooks Dressed as a Witch Posing Underwater
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Mermaid Geanie L. W. Brooks dressed as a witch posing underwater at Weeki Wachee Springs. In the background is a sign in the shape of a jack-o-lantern in a tophat. On the tophat are the words "Weekii Wachee Witches." Geanie learned how to weld andoperate heavy machinery at the McCloskey Shipyard during World War II. In the 1950s, Geanie worked as a waitress at the Patio Restuarant at Weeki Wachee Springs and later became a mermaid. She left this position in 1957. After Weeki Wachee, Geanie drove bulldozers, repaired bulldozer tracks, and drove a dump trunk. Even later she worked as a bookkeeper, real estate agent, bowling instructor, and department store manager. Her last job was at Home Depot, she left the workforce upon turning eighty-years-old. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original Black and white photograph of Geanie Brooks Underwater, c.1950s: Private Collection of Shirley Herdge.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpeg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Rita King Performing at a Mermaid Reunion
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.);
subject: Tourism--Florida; tourism & museum;
subject: Tourism--1960-1980;
subject: Ballet--1970-1980;
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History;
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Rita King, a mermaid at Weeki Wachee Springs, in costume, performing an acrobatic routine. This event was one of the many mermaid reunions that Weeki Wachee Springs hosted, where they invited former mermaids to attend special events. This particular reunion happened on December 1, 1960. Text cut off at the top of the image reads, "Acrobatic Dance Routine for a Mermaid Reunion Show - Age 21." Weeki Wachee Springs is a state park that opened to the public in October of 1949 by Newton Perry along with a group of investors. This attraction opened as the roadside era of Florida was ramping up and consisted of an amalgamation of vendors including an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction- the mermaid show that took place in an underwater theatre. The attraction grew to include The May Museum of the Tropics, an ‘abandoned Seminole village’, an show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo. As theme parks became the new norm for Florida’s tourist industry, Weeki Wachee Springs began steadily declining until the state of Florida absorbed the attraction into the state park system in 2008. The attraction now focuses on appealing to a modern audience, while still preserving its rich history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
source: Original black and white photograph of Rita King, December 1, 1960: Private collection of Rita King.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Lydia Dodson Posing Underwater
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.);
subject: Tourism--Florida; tourism & museum;
subject: Tourism--1960-1980;
subject: Ballet--1970-1980;
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History;
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Lydia Dodson posing underwater in June of 1970. Lydia Dodson was a Weeki Wachee Mermaid in the 1970s and more recently joined ranks of the Legendary Sirens. Weeki Wachee Springs is a state park that opened to the public in October of 1949 by Newton Perry along with a group of investors. This attraction opened as the roadside era of Florida was ramping up and consisted of an amalgamation of vendors including an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction- the mermaid show that took place in an underwater theatre. The attraction grew to include The May Museum of the Tropics, an ‘abandoned Seminole village’, an show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo. As theme parks became the new norm for Florida’s tourist industry, Weeki Wachee Springs began steadily declining until the state of Florida absorbed the attraction into the state park system in 2008. The attraction now focuses on appealing to a modern audience, while still preserving its rich history.
source: Original photograph of Lydia Dodson: Personal Collection of Lydia Dodson.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Rita King Posing Underwater with a Welcome Home Sign for Her Parents
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.);
subject: Tourism--Florida; tourism & museum;
subject: Tourism--1960-1980;
subject: Ballet--1970-1980;
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History;
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Weeki Wachee mermaid Rita King posing underwater with a handmade sign, dressed in a mermaid tail. The sign reads, "Welcome Home Mom, Dad Your Mermaid Missed You!" Rita surprised her parents with this sign at the beginning of the first mermaid show they came to after coming back home from an extended trip. It was routine during performances to shout out visitors who were celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions. When VIP's visited the park, the mermaids welcomed them more elaborately. For example, when Elvis Presley visited Weeki Wachee, the mermaids began the underwater show with a cardboard cutout of Elvis as well as with several signs. As seen here, it was also acceptable for mermaids to personalize their shows under special circumstances. Weeki Wachee Springs is a state park that opened to the public in October of 1949 by Newton Perry along with a group of investors. This attraction opened as the roadside era of Florida was ramping up and consisted of an amalgamation of vendors including an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction- the mermaid show that took place in an underwater theatre. The attraction grew to include The May Museum of the Tropics, an ‘abandoned Seminole village’, an show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo. As theme parks became the new norm for Florida’s tourist industry, Weeki Wachee Springs began steadily declining until the state of Florida absorbed the attraction into the state park system in 2008. The attraction now focuses on appealing to a modern audience, while still preserving its rich history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Springs
source: Original B&W photograph of Rita King, 1967: Private Collection of Rita King.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Tourist Standing Near Sign Advertising Mermaid Positions
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Color photograph of a tourist visiting Weeki Wachee Springs in 1964. The tourist is standing beside a sign that reads, "Openings for Mermaid Training School Apply Here." Weeki Wachee Springs is a state park that opened to the public in October of 1949 by Newton Perry along with a group of investors. This attraction opened as the roadside era of Florida was ramping up and consisted of an amalgamation of vendors including an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction- the mermaid show that took place in an underwater theatre. The attraction grew to include The May Museum of the Tropics, an ‘abandoned Seminole village’, an show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo. As theme parks became the new norm for Florida’s tourist industry, Weeki Wachee Springs began steadily declining until the state of Florida absorbed the attraction into the state park system in 2008. The attraction now focuses on appealing to a modern audience, while still preserving its rich history.
creator: Family of Karen Geiken
source: Original color photograph of Weeki Wachee Springs Tourist, April 1964: Private Collection of Karen Geiken.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaids Sitting in Front of Hercules Beetle Statue
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Color postcard of Weeki Wachee Springs mermaids sitting in front of a Hercules Beetle Statue and the May Museum of the Tropics. For a little over a decade, the May family of Colorado displayed some of their family's private collection of tropical bugs and animals in a museum on Weeki Wachee Springs property. Photograph taken sometime in the 1950s. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original color photograph of May Museum of the Tropics, c.1950s: May Natural History Museum Collection.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Postcard of Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaid Bonnie Georgiadis Posing Underwater in Costume
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Color postcard of Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaid Bonnie Georgiadis in a costume, mid-ballet move during an underwater performance. Text on back of postcard reads, "The underwater acrobatic butterfly ballet is just one of eight big scenes produced for the new underwater spectacle at the Spring of Live Mermaids, Weeki Wachee, Florida. Color Photo by Ted Lagerberg." Handwritten beneath previous text reads, "Feb 13-64." Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Lagerber, Ted. Original color postcard of Bonnie Georgiadis Underwater, February 13, 1964: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Collection.
publisher: RICHES
contributor: Lagerberg, Ted
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Holiday Inn Staff Posing in Front of Hotel Sign in Celebration of 9th Anniversary
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: The staff of the Weeki Wachee Holiday Inn standing in front of the hotel's iconic sign. The marquee on the sign reads, "Our 9th Anniversary June 5 1975." This Holiday Inn was located directly across the street from Weeki Wachee Springs and opened in 1966. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Holiday Inn
source: Original Black and white photograph of Weeki Wachee Holiday Inn Stafff, June 5, 1975: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Collection.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Three Weeki Wachee Mermaids Performing on the Hydraulic Lift
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: A Weeki Wachee Springs underwater performance. The image shows two Weeki Wachee mermaids standing on the hydraulic lift that ABC installed in the springs in the 1960s. There is a third mermaid mid-pose in front of the bydraulic lift. As the picture was taken in August 1971 and there is a treasure chest prop in the left corner, the show is presumed to be "Peter Pan." After ABC took over Weeki Wachee Springs, the performances changed annually. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original color photograph of Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaids and Hydraulic Lift, August 1971: Private Collection of karen Geiken.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Rita King Feeding a Fish Underwater
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Ballet--1970-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Mermaid Rita King feeding a fish underwater. In one hand she is holding food and the other hand is holding an air hose. She is kneeling on the spring floor. Photograph taken in the 1960s. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Black and white photograph of Rita King, c. 1960s: Private collection of Rita King.
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Springs Underwater Theater Postcard
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Color postcard with an image of Weeki Wachee Springs mermaids posing on top of the newly constructed underwater theater. Text on the back reads, "Weeki Wachee, Florida's underwater grand canyon presents a new million dollar underwater aqua-theatre and underwater musical revue daily from 9 to 5, rain or shine. Located at the junction of U.S. 19 and Florida 50 north of Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Tampa." This Postcard made sometime in the 1960s. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original color postcard of Weeki Wachee Mermaids atop Underwater Theater, c.1960s: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Collection.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Two Weeki Wachee Mermaids in Costume Performing a Scene from "Peter Pan"
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
subject: Theater--20th century
description: Kodak Safety Film Strip consisting of two images. These images show two Weeki Wachee mermaids performing a scene from "Peter Pan." One mermaid is in a Captain Hook costume and the other is in an alligator costume. A prop pirate ship is pictured behind the mermaids. Image was taken sometime in 1971, when the show was performed. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
creator: Sparky Schumacher
source: Original black and white photograph of Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaids Performing in "Peter Pan," c. 1971: Private Collection of karen Geiken.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Springs Brochure, c. 1950s
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1960-1970
subject: tourism & museum
subject: Tourism--1960-1980
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
description: Trifold brochure of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park highlighting the park's attractions in the 1950s, such as the May Museum of the Tropiscs. For a little over a decade, the May family of Colorado displayed some of their family's private collection of tropical bugs and animals in a museum on Weeki Wachee Springs property. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
source: Original color trifold of Weeki Wachee Springs, c. 1950s: May Natural History Museum Collection.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Weeki Wachee Springs Swimming Area, c. 1950s
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Photograph albums--1940-1950
subject: Tourism--1940-1960
subject: Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
description: Early image of Weeki Wachee Springs swimming area and parking lot, taken sometime between 1948 and 1960. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter, Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987. It was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Perry, Newt
source: Original black and white photograph of Weeki Wachee Springs, c 1940s-1950s: Delee Perry Collection.
publisher: RICHES
format: imgage/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaids Eating Watermelon Underwater
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
description: Three Weeki Wachee Mermaids eating watermelon underwater. Before the mermaids performed plays, their shows consisted of underwater ballet, a deep dive into the depths of the spring, and other stunts. A common stunt the mermaids performed was to eat and drink underwater. Most commonly the mermaids ate bananas and drank soda out of glass bottles. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter, Delee Perry, took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987. It was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attr…
creator: Perry, Newton
source: Original photograph of mermaids eating underwater: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaid Posing Underwater in Costume Tail
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
description: Weeki Wachee Springs Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Perry, Newton
source: Original photograph of Weeki Wachee Mermaid posing underwater: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Weeki Wachee Mermaids Sitting in a Circle
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
description: 20 Weeki Wachee mermaids posing for a photograph by sitting in a large circle. The photograph was taken sometime in the 1950s. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
source: Original photograph of underwater theater at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Newt Perry and Weeki Wachee Mermaid Performing Show
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
description: Newt Perry and a Weeki Wachee mermaid posing underwater, performing a show. The two are swimming near a prop that resembles a castle. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
source: Original photograph of underwater theater at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Newt Perry Announcing a Mermaid Show at Weeki Wachee Spring's Underwater Theater
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Mermaids--Florida
subject: Perry, Newton, 1908-1987
description: Newt Perry announcing a mermaid show in the first underwater theater at Weeki Wachee Springs. There are 15 guests watching the performance, sitting on fruit crates. This image was taken sometime between 1948 and 1960. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history…
source: Original photograph of underwater theater at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
type: Still Image
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida

Letter from Myrtle Colson to John M. May (March 1, 1959)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from the manager of the May Museum of the Tropics, Myrtle Colson, to the owner of the museum, John M. May, dated March 1, 1959. The letter celebrates the recent high number of visitors that the Museum had. Additionally, the letter informs May that the management of the Weeki Wachee Springs, where the museum was located, wanted a daily report of sales as well as weekly and monthly reports. As John May lived in Colorado and the May Museum of the Tropics was located in Florida, communication between employer, employees, and other staff at Weeki Wachee Springs was limited predominantly to letters of correspondence. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserv…
creator: Colson, Myrtle
source: Original 1-page typed letter from Myrtle Colson to John M. May, March 1, 1959: May Natural History Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from John M. May to the Employees of the May Museum of the Tropics (January 8, 1959)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from the owner of the May Museum of the Tropics, John M. May, to the employees of the museum, dated January 8, 1959. May asks his employees to water the plants around the outside of the museum to ensure they don't wilt or die, and hopes that they will send him regular updates of how the museum is faring. As John May lived in Colorado and the May Museum of the Tropics was located in Florida, communication between employer, employees, and other staff at Weeki Wachee Springs was limited predominantly to letters of correspondence. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John M.
source: Original 1-page typed letter from John M. May to the employees of the May Museum of the Tropics, January 8, 1959: May Natural History Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from John M. May to Myrtle Colson (January 14, 1959)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from the owner of the May Museum of the Tropics, John M. May, to the manager of the museum, Myrtle Colson, dated January 14, 1959. May expresses his hopes that Colson is feeling better, as she recently had the flu, and informs her that his government project seems to be moving ahead. He also informs Colson that he will send information plaques for the large-scale Hercules beetle replica outside the museum. As John May lived in Colorado and the May Museum of the Tropics was located in Florida, communication between employer, employees, and other staff at Weeki Wachee Springs was limited predominantly to letters of correspondence. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audi…
creator: May, John M.
source: Original 1-page typed letter from John M. May to Myrtle Colson, January 14, 1959: May Natural History Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Weeki Wachee Springs Memo (February 21, 1963)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A memo from Weeki Wachee Springs State Park manager T.P. Brinzo, circulated to all departments, dated February 21, 1963. The memo informed the entirety of the Springs that new equipment had been acquired for the underwater mermaid shows to help prevent drownings. Per the memo, all departments were to set up regular drills to prepare for a drowning scenario. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Brinzo, T.P.
source: Original 1-page typed memo, February 23, 1963: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from Charles P. Kimball to John M. May (June 7, 1957)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from entomologist Charles P. Kimball to the owner of the May Museum of the Tropics, John M. May, dated June 7, 1957. In the letter, Kimball details an insect trap design that utilizes thin plastic instead of glass, to allow more sunlight into the trap, and to better prevent the insects escaping. As Kimball was an entomologist like May, the letter also expresses that May's father's collection was being taken care of. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: Kimball, Charles P.
source: Original 1-page typed letter from Charles P. Kimball to John M. May, June 7, 1957: May Natural History Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from John M. May to Myrtle Colson (May 7, 1959)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from the owner of the May Museum of the Tropics, John M. May, to the manager of the museum, Myrtle Colson, dated May 7, 1959. In the letter, May apologizes to Colson for not informing her sooner about how to handle counting groups of children who were admitted to the museum on special prices. May kept up various lines of communication with both his museum and the staff of the Weeki Wachee Springs, where the museum was located, and likely found it difficult at times to remember who knew what pieces of information. As John May lived in Colorado and the May Museum of the Tropics was located in Florida, communication between employer, employees, and other staff at Weeki Wachee Springs was limited predominantly to letters of correspondence. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida too…
creator: May, John M.
source: Original 1-page typed letter from John M. May to Myrtle Colson, May 7, 1959: May Natural History Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from John M. May to John T. Creighton (November 20, 1963)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from the owner of the May Museum of the Tropics, John M. May, to University of Florida entomology professor John T. Creighton, dated November 20, 1963. May extended a warm invitation to Creighton and his colleagues to visit the May Museum, but expressed urgency as he believed that the museum would be closing soon due to pressure from the owners of Weeki Wachee Springs. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
creator: May, John M.
source: Original 1-page typed letter from John M. May to John T. Creighton, November 20, 1963: May Natural History Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida

Letter from Joe D. Seltzer to John M. May (June 17, 1959)
subject: Weeki Wachee Springs (Fla.)
subject: Tourism--Florida
subject: Springs--Florida
subject: Parks--Florida
subject: Entomology
description: A letter from the manager of Weeki Wachee Springs, Joe D. Seltzer, to the owner of the May Museum of the Tropics, John M. May, dated June 17, 1959. In the letter, Seltzer expresses his and his company's wish to build a new walkway and parking lot that would help attract more business to both the Springs and the museum. To accomplish the expansion, May's large-scale replica of a Hercules beetle, named Hercimer, needed to be moved. As John May lived in Colorado and the May Museum of the Tropics was located in Florida, communication between employer, employees, and other staff at Weeki Wachee Springs was limited predominantly to letters of correspondence. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing t…
creator: Seltzer, Joe D.
source: Original 1-page typed letter from Joe D. Seltzer to John M. May, June 17, 1959: May Natural History Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
publisher: RICHES
format: image/jpg
language: eng
type: Text
coverage: May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida