Creative Sanford, Inc. is a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup: Florida's Folk Life Play community theater productions. The original idea for the Celery Soup project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, a play focusing on the people of Sanford and their determination to overcome various obstacles, including the Freeze of 1894-1895, the fall of Sanford's celery industry, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. In the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which is located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra. The Creative Sanford offices are housed in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, located at 203 East First Street.
Creative Sanford, Inc.
The Princess Theater 115 West First Street Sanford, Florida 32771
Historic Sanford Welcome Center 203 East First Street Sanford, Florida 32771
Cultural Preservation Award for Creative Sanford, Inc. and Celery Soup
TheCultural Preservation Award presented by the Sanford Historic Trust to Creative Sanford, Inc. in 2011 for the play Touch and Go. The award contains images from the play and the address of the Princess Theater, where the play was performed. Creative Sanford, Inc. is a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup community theater productions. The original idea for the Celery Soup project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, a play focusing on the people of Sanford and their determination to overcome various obstacles, including the Freeze of 1894-1895, the fall of Sanford's celery industry, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. Richard Geer and Jules Corriere, partners from Community Performance International, were in charge of assessing oral histories, converting them into scenes for the play, and writing original songs. Director Geer also used an all-volunteer cast from the local community, many of whom were not experienced actors. In the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which is located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra. The Creative Sanford offices are housed in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, located at 203 East First Street.
Sanford Historic Trust
Original 8.5 x 11 inch certificate, May 9, 2011: Sanford Historic Trust, Sanford, Florida: Creative Sanford, Inc., Historic Sanford Welcome Center, Sanford, Florida.
Creative Sanford, Inc., Sanford, Florida
A Tribute Recognizing Creative Sanford, Inc.
A certificate awarded by the Florida House of Representatives to Creative Sanford, Inc. on June 23, 2011. This award recognizes the accomplishments, work, and awards received by Creative Sanford. Some of the achievements cited include the Celery Soup production Touch and Go, the 2011 Cultural Preservation Award, and the completion and transcription of over 100 oral histories. The document is signed by Chris Dorworth, the Florida State Representative for District 34. Creative Sanford, Inc. is a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup community theater productions. The original idea for the Celery Soup project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, a play focusing on the people of Sanford and their determination to overcome various obstacles, including the Freeze of 1894-1895, the fall of Sanford's celery industry, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. Richard Geer and Jules Corriere, partners from Community Performance International, were in charge of assessing oral histories, converting them into scenes for the play, and writing original songs. Director Geer also used an all-volunteer cast from the local community, many of whom were not experienced actors. In the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which is located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra. The Creative Sanford offices are housed in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, located at 203 East First Street.
Florida House of Representatives
Chris Dorworth
Original 8.5 x 14 inch certificate, June 23, 2011: Florida House of Representatives, Tallahassee, Florida: Creative Sanford, Inc., Historic Sanford Welcome Center, Sanford, Florida.
A poster advertising an exhibition of the photographic series of Reg Garner, a Sanford resident. The event was held on August 23, 2006. While not a Creative Sanford, Inc. event, this poster illustrates the co-op arrangement at the Princess Theater, located at 115 West First Street in Sanford, Florida. Creative Sanford, Inc. is the lease holder, but co-ops the space with other groups to share the costs involved in leasing the theater space. The Princess Theater was first opened in 1915 as a live theater and film theater until the mid-1960s, when it was converted into an automobile parts dealership for over 20 years. The theater was revitalized by Creative Sanford.
Original color digital image by Autumn Reisz, October 11, 2013.
A wooden cut-out of a man and woman dressed for the Celery Ball. The Celery Ball is a fund raising event held by Creative Sanford, a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup: Florida's Folk Life Play community theater productions, each year. For the Celery Ball, several "kings" and "queens" compete to raise money to support Creative Sanford's mission, the highest male and female fundraisers being crowned the top king and queen. The Celery Ball in 2014 was The Great Gatsby-themed and featured silent auctions. The original idea for the Celery Soup project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, a play focusing on the people of Sanford and their determination to overcome various obstacles, including the Freeze of 1894-1895, the fall of Sanford's celery industry, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. Richard Geer and Jules Corriere, partners from Community Performance International, were in charge of assessing oral histories, converting them into scenes for the play, and writing original songs. Director Geer also used an all-volunteer cast from the local community, many of whom were not experienced actors. In the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which is located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra. The Creative Sanford offices are housed in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, located at 203 East First Street.
The front display window at the Princess Theater, located at 115 West First Street, for the Creative Sanford, Inc. and Celery Soup: Florida's Folk Life Play production of Remade - Not Bought. The window display is filled with baking related props like pies, an old stand mixer, a cookbook, mixing bowls, an apron, a measuring cup, and various ingredients for making pies The faux props were made by school children in Seminole County. Remade - Not Bought was a Celery Soup play produced by Creative Sanford performed October 18 through November 3, 2013. The play was written by Peter Newman, Brian Casey, Trish Thompson, Annye Refoe, and Laura Donaldson. Remade - Not Bought was directed by Nicholas Murphy, the artistic director of Cornerstone Theatre in Orlando, and includes original music by Ruth King. The play features stories real-life stories based on oral histories of Sanford residents.
Original color digital images by Autumn Reisz, October 11, 2013.
Letter from Chris Dorworth to Trish Thompson (June 16, 2011)
A letter from Florida House Representative Chris Dorworth recognizing and congratulating Creative Sanford, Inc. and its then-President Trish Thompson for their work preserving and presenting community history through folk-life plays, specifically Touch and Go. Creative Sanford, Inc. is a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup community theater productions. The original idea for the Celery Soup: Florida’s Folk Life Play project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, a play focusing on the people of Sanford and their determination to overcome various obstacles, including the Freeze of 1894-1895, the fall of Sanford's celery industry, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. Richard Geer and Jules Corriere, partners from Community Performance International, were in charge of assessing oral histories, converting them into scenes for the play, and writing original songs. Director Geer also used an all-volunteer cast from the local community, many of whom were not experienced actors. In the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which is located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra. The Creative Sanford offices are housed in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, located at 203 East First Street.
Original letter from Chris Dorworth to Trish Thompson, June 16, 2011: Creative Sanford, Inc., Historic Sanford Welcome Center, Sanford, Florida.
Office of State Representative Chris Dorworth, The Capitol, Tallahassee, Florida
Letter from John L. Mica to Trish Thompson (July 12, 2011)
A letter from U.S. House Representative John L. Mica congratulating Creative Sanford, Inc. and its then-President Trish Thompson for receiving the 2011 Cultural Preservation Award from the Sanford Historic Trust for the play Touch and Go. Creative Sanford, Inc. is a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup community theater productions. The original idea for the Celery Soup: Florida’s Folk Life Play project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, a play focusing on the people of Sanford and their determination to overcome various obstacles, including the Freeze of 1894-1895, the fall of Sanford's celery industry, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. Richard Geer and Jules Corriere, partners from Community Performance International, were in charge of assessing oral histories, converting them into scenes for the play, and writing original songs. Director Geer also used an all-volunteer cast from the local community, many of whom were not experienced actors. In the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which is located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra. The Creative Sanford offices are housed in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, located at 203 East First Street.
Original letter from John L. Mica to Trish Thompson, July 12, 2011: Creative Sanford, Inc., Historic Sanford Welcome Center, Sanford, Florida.
A poster for a breast cancer awareness fundraiser called "Music for Melons." The event was held at the Princess Theater, located at 115 West First Street in Sanford, Florida, on September 28, 2013. "Music for Melons" featured performances by Angelyn Rhode, Paul 50, Lisa Stern, the Melon Sisters, Galaxy Mindz Dance Crew, Wekiva River Players Junior Theater, Winter Springs Performing Arts, and many more. The fundraiser collected $10 donations and all proceeds went to the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K. "Music for Melons" was produced by a breast cancer awareness walking team of the same name. The team was founded by Rhode, a breast cancer survivor, in 2011.
Dressing rooms (Performing arts)--United States
The cast dressing rooms backstage at the Princess Theater, located at 115 West First Street in Sanford, Florida. The dressing rooms were expanded and improved for the Creative Sanford, Inc. and Celery Soup: Florida's Folk Life Play production of Remade - Not Bought performed October 18 through November 3, 2013. The play was written by Peter Newman, Brian Casey, Trish Thompson, Annye Refoe, and Laura Donaldson. Remade - Not Bought was directed by Nicholas Murphy, the artistic director of Cornerstone Theatre in Orlando, and includes original music by Ruth King. The play features stories real-life stories based on oral histories of Sanford residents.
The riser seating at the Princess Theater, located at 115 West First Street in Sanford, Florida. There are three bays of riser seating in the theater. High siding was added to back and sides to provide cast members with more privacy. Remade - Not Bought was a Celery Soup: Florida's Folk Life Play and Creative Sanford, Inc. play performed from October 18 through November 3, 2013. The play was written by Peter Newman, Brian Casey, Trish Thompson, Annye Refoe, and Laura Donaldson. Remade - Not Bought was directed by Nicholas Murphy, the artistic director of Cornerstone Theatre in Orlando, and includes original music by Ruth King. The play features stories real-life stories based on oral histories of Sanford residents.
The stage set, during construction, at the Princess Theater, located at 115 West First Street, for Remade - Not Bought. Remade - Not Bought was a Celery Soup: Florida's Folk Life Play and Creative Sanford, Inc. play performed from October 18 through November 3, 2013. The play was written by Peter Newman, Brian Casey, Trish Thompson, Annye Refoe, and Laura Donaldson. Remade - Not Bought was directed by Nicholas Murphy, the artistic director of Cornerstone Theatre in Orlando, and includes original music by Ruth King. The play features stories real-life stories based on oral histories of Sanford residents.
Trish Thompson, Vice President and former President of Creative Sanford, Inc., in October 2013. Creative Sanford is a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup community theater productions. The original idea for the Celery Soup: Florida’s Folk Life Play project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, a play focusing on the people of Sanford and their determination to overcome various obstacles, including the Freeze of 1894-1895, the fall of Sanford's celery industry, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. Richard Geer and Jules Corriere, partners from Community Performance International, were in charge of assessing oral histories, converting them into scenes for the play, and writing original songs. Director Geer also used an all-volunteer cast from the local community, many of whom were not experienced actors. In the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which is located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra. The Creative Sanford offices are housed in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, located at 203 East First Street.
Woven Tales and Signature Boards at the Princess Theater
A display wall in the Princess Theater, located at 115 West First Street in Sanford, Florida. This wall displays two important artifacts related to Creative Sanford, Inc.: "Woven Tales", materials woven during an earlier play; and the signature boards of all of the actors and volunteers who participated in previous performances. Creative Sanford is a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup community theater productions. The original idea for the Celery Soup: Florida’s Folk Life Play project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, a play focusing on the people of Sanford and their determination to overcome various obstacles, including the Freeze of 1894-1895, the fall of Sanford's celery industry, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. Richard Geer and Jules Corriere, partners from Community Performance International, were in charge of assessing oral histories, converting them into scenes for the play, and writing original songs. Director Geer also used an all-volunteer cast from the local community, many of whom were not experienced actors. In the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which is located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra. The Creative Sanford offices are housed in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, located at 203 East First Street.
Baggs' Produce Cart from "Remade - Not Bought"
the Baggs' Produce cart prop used in several scenes for Remade - Not Bought to symbolize the Baggs' grocery store. This store was part of the community for decades and has served as a de facto meeting place for residents of Sanford, Florida. Remade - Not Bought was a Celery Soup: Florida's Folk Life Play and Creative Sanford, Inc. play performed from October 18 through November 3, 2013. The play was written by Peter Newman, Brian Casey, Trish Thompson, Annye Refoe, and Laura Donaldson. Remade - Not Bought was directed by Nicholas Murphy, the artistic director of Cornerstone Theatre in Orlando, and includes original music by Ruth King. The play features stories real-life stories based on oral histories of Sanford residents.
Dr. Starke Wins Chase Senior Citizen Award
This newspaper clipping concerns the awarding of the Chase Senior Citizen Award to Dr. George H. Starke (1898-1978). The precise newspaper is unknown, but it is presumed to be The Sanford Herald. The year the award was given is believed to be 1974. Dr. Starke was a practicing medical doctor who opened his practice in Sanford, Florida, on September 15, 1927. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Starke became one of only four African-American physicians to be accepted by Harvard University for residency at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He practiced for several years in Boston and then returned to Sanford in 1933 and continued to practice medicine until his death at age 80. For many years, Dr. Starke was the only African-American doctor in Sanford. Dr. Starke was also the first African-American doctor to acquire membership in the Florida Medical Association and the Seminole County Medical Association, as well as the second to join the American Medical Association. In 1971, the City of Sanford named George Starke Park, located at 1501 West Third Street, in his honor.
Original newspaper article by Jane Casselberry: "Dr. Starke Wins Chase Senior Citizen Award," The Sanford Herald: Dr. George H. Starke Folder, General Henry S. Sanford Memorial Library, Sanford Museum, Sanford Florida.
The Sanford Herald
Sanford to Honor Dr. Starke for Half Century of Medical Service
This newspaper clipping, from the September 11, 1977 edition of the The Sentinel Star, offers a descriptive profile of Dr. George H. Starke's (1898-1978) history and accomplishments. Dr. Starke was a practicing medical doctor who opened his practice in Sanford, Florida, on September 15, 1927. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Starke became one of only four African-American physicians to be accepted by Harvard University for residency at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He practiced for several years in Boston and then returned to Sanford in 1933 and continued to practice medicine until his death at age 80. For many years, Dr. Starke was the only African-American doctor in Sanford. Dr. Starke was also the first African-American doctor to acquire membership in the Florida Medical Association and the Seminole County Medical Association, as well as the second to join the American Medical Association. In 1971, the City of Sanford named George Starke Park, located at 1501 West Third Street, in his honor.
Original newspaper article by Keay Davidson: "Sanford to Honor Dr. Starke for Half Century of Medical Service," The Sentinel Star, September 11, 1977: Dr. George H. Starke Folder, General Henry S. Sanford Memorial Library, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford Salutes Dr. G. H. Starke Sunday Sept 1
This newspaper clipping, presumably from The Sanford Herald, reproduces a photograph of Sanford's First Street with a banner commemorating Dr. George H. Starke (1898-1978) strung between several buildings. Dr. Starke was a practicing medical doctor who opened his practice in Sanford, Florida, on September 15, 1927. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Starke became one of only four African-American physicians to be accepted by Harvard University for residency at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He practiced for several years in Boston and then returned to Sanford in 1933 and continued to practice medicine until his death at age 80. For many years, Dr. Starke was the only African-American doctor in Sanford. Dr. Starke was also the first African-American doctor to acquire membership in the Florida Medical Association and the Seminole County Medical Association, as well as the second to join the American Medical Association. In 1971, the City of Sanford named George Starke Park, located at 1501 West Third Street, in his honor.
Print newspaper reproduction of original photograph: The Sanford Herald, September 7, 1977: Dr. George H. Starke Folder, General Henry S. Sanford Memorial Library, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
50th Anniversary for Starke; Hundredth for City
This newspaper article commemorates Dr. George H. Starke's (1898-1978) 50 years of service to the Sanford community. Dr. Starke was a practicing medical doctor who opened his practice in Sanford, Florida, on September 15, 1927. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Starke became one of only four African-American physicians to be accepted by Harvard University for residency at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He practiced for several years in Boston and then returned to Sanford in 1933 and continued to practice medicine until his death at age 80. For many years, Dr. Starke was the only African-American doctor in Sanford. Dr. Starke was also the first African-American doctor to acquire membership in the Florida Medical Association and the Seminole County Medical Association, as well as the second to join the American Medical Association. In 1971, the City of Sanford named George Starke Park, located at 1501 West Third Street, in his honor.
Original newspaper article: "50th Anniversary for Starke; Hundredth for City," The Sanford Herald, August 7, 1977: Dr. George H. Starke Folder, General Henry S. Sanford Memorial Library, Sanford Museum, Sanford Florida.
Florida Agricultural and Technical University, Tallahassee, Florida
This undated newspaper clipping advertises an "Appreciation Day Sunday" held by the Sanford Chamber of Commerce and the Concerned Citizens Committee for Dr. George H. Starke (1898-1978). The Chamber of Commerce hung a banner over First Street in Downtown Sanford, Florida, in Dr. Starke's honor. The event was held at the Sanford Civic Center, located at 401 East Seminole Boulevard. Dr. Starke was a practicing medical doctor who opened his practice in Sanford, Florida, on September 15, 1927. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Starke became one of only four African-American physicians to be accepted by Harvard University for residency at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He practiced for several years in Boston and then returned to Sanford in 1933 and continued to practice medicine until his death at age 80. For many years, Dr. Starke was the only African-American doctor in Sanford. Dr. Starke was also the first African-American doctor to acquire membership in the Florida Medical Association and the Seminole County Medical Association, as well as the second to join the American Medical Association. In 1971, the City of Sanford named George Starke Park, located at 1501 West Third Street, in his honor.
Original newspaper article: "Dr. Starke Honored": Dr. George H. Starke Folder, General Henry S. Sanford Memorial Library, Sanford Museum, Sanford Florida.
This newspaper article, from The Evening Herald, commemorating Dr. George H. Starke (1898-1978) for his services to the community. In 1971, the Sanford Mayor Lee P. Moore dedicated George Starke Park to Dr. Starke, located at 1501 West Third Street. He has also received honors from Dr. Luis Perez, Dr. Jorge Gomez, and Dr. Thomas Largen and was honored at the ""Appreciation Day Sunday" event held by the Sanford Chamber of Commerce and the Concerned Citizens Committee. Dr. Starke was a practicing medical doctor who opened his practice in Sanford, Florida, on September 15, 1927. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Starke became one of only four African-American physicians to be accepted by Harvard University for residency at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He practiced for several years in Boston and then returned to Sanford in 1933 and continued to practice medicine until his death at age 80. For many years, Dr. Starke was the only African-American doctor in Sanford. Dr. Starke was also the first African-American doctor to acquire membership in the Florida Medical Association and the Seminole County Medical Association, as well as the second to join the American Medical Association. In 1971, the City of Sanford named George Starke Park, located at 1501 West Third Street, in his honor.
Original newspaper article: "A Big Thanks for Dr. Starke," The Evening Herald, September 13, 1977, page 4A: Dr. George H. Starke Folder, General Henry S. Sanford Memorial Library, Sanford Museum, Sanford Florida.
This is an undated narrative, written by Luticia "Tish" Lee, that describes the origins of a rolling pin that has become an heirloom of the Lee Family of Sanford, Florida. Lee wrote about this keepsake for which she had placed in her Love Cedar Chest, also known as a Hope Chest. While attending high school in 1940, Lee's parents gave her a hope chest, along with a bedspread crocheted by her mother. Also included inside was a rolling pin that her father, a member of the American Legion, had made from one of the wooden spokes from the wheel of a World War I-era cannon. The cannon was placed in front of American Legion Campbell-Lossing Post 53, located at 300 Seminole Boulevard, on January 17, 1936, but was dismantled for scrap metal during World War II. Lee married her husband James after the war on September 11, 1946. After her wedding, she began using the rolling pin.
Original handwritten narrative by Luticia "Tish" Lee: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Lee.
American Legion Campbell-Lossing Post 53, Sanford, Florida
Historic Lakefront Building to Be Demolished: Deteriorated Log Cabin is Too Dangerous to Save
This is a newspaper article describing the planned demolition of the an historic log cabin-style building located at 300 Seminole Boulevard in Sanford, Florida. The log cabin was originally used as the American Legion Campbell-Lossing Post 53, which received the property from the City of Sanford during the Armistice Day celebrations on November 11, 1924. Mayor Forrest Lake dedicated the structure to the "future generations who would be better off because of the work of the American Legion." The cabin was constructed through private donations from local citizens and businesses, such as the Hill Lumber Company. A cannon from World War I was placed in front of the building on January 17, 1936, but the cannon was dismantled for scrap metal during World War II. The Sanford Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States acquired the building in 1973 and the American Legion moved to 3506 South Orlando Drive and later to 2874 South Sanford Avenue. Due to deterioration and poor conditions, inspector Gary Winn recommended demolition, which was approved by City Manager Bill Simmons. The American Legion is a social veterans' organization for former and current members of the United States Armed Forces. The organization was chartered by the United States Congress on September 16, 1919, following World War I. The American Legion has been active in influencing political and social change, such as the founding of the U.S. Veterans Bureau, which was the forerunner of the Veterans Administration and later the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); efforts to pass a constitutional amendment prohibiting the physical desecration of the American flag; the creation of the American Legion Baseball program; the passing of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act, commonly known as the GI Bill of Rights; contributing to the launch of the National Association for Mental Health; sponsorship of an independent study on the effects of the exposure of Agent Orange, a herbicidal weapon, on veterans of the Vietnam War; as well as many other activities and achievements.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: Pfeifauf, Nick. "Historic Lakefront Building to Be Demolished: Deteriorated Log Cabin is Too Dangerous to Save." The Sanford Herald, January 24, 1996: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Lee.
View of the American Legion Hut on Lake Monroe
The American Legion Hall, located at the 300 Seminole Boulevard in Sanford, Florida during the 1920s. The log cabin was originally used as the American Legion Campbell-Lossing Post 53, which received the property from the City of Sanford during the Armistice Day celebrations on November 11, 1924. Mayor Forrest Lake dedicated the structure to the "future generations who would be better off because of the work of the American Legion." The cabin was constructed through private donations from local citizens and businesses, such as the Hill Lumber Company. A cannon from World War I was placed in front of the building on January 17, 1936, but the cannon was dismantled for scrap metal during World War II. The Sanford Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States acquired the building in 1973 and the American Legion moved to 3506 South Orlando Drive and later to 2874 South Sanford Avenue. Due to deterioration and poor conditions, inspector Gary Winn recommended demolition, which City Manager Bill Simmons approved. The American Legion is a social veterans' organization for former and current members of the United States Armed Forces. The organization was chartered by the United States Congress on September 16, 1919, following World War I. The American Legion has been active in influencing political and social change, such as the founding of the U.S. Veterans Bureau, which was the forerunner of the Veterans Administration and later the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); efforts to pass a constitutional amendment prohibiting the physical desecration of the American flag; the creation of the American Legion Baseball program; the passing of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act, commonly known as the GI Bill of Rights; contributing to the launch of the National Association for Mental Health; sponsorship of an independent study on the effects of the exposure of Agent Orange, a herbicidal weapon, on veterans of the Vietnam War; as well as many other activities and achievements.
Photocopy of original 6.5 x 3.75 inch black and white photograph: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Lee.
Post 53's Original Post Home Located on Lake Monroe
The American Legion Hall Cannon, located at the 300 Seminole Boulevard in Sanford, Florida around 1939. The log cabin was originally used as the American Legion Campbell-Lossing Post 53, which received the property from the City of Sanford during the Armistice Day celebrations on November 11, 1924. Mayor Forrest Lake dedicated the structure to the "future generations who would be better off because of the work of the American Legion." The cabin was constructed through private donations from local citizens and businesses, such as the Hill Lumber Company. A cannon from World War I was placed in front of the building on January 17, 1936, but the cannon was dismantled for scrap metal during World War II. The Sanford Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States acquired the building in 1973 and the American Legion moved to 3506 South Orlando Drive and later to 2874 South Sanford Avenue. Due to deterioration and poor conditions, inspector Gary Winn recommended demolition, which City Manager Bill Simmons approved. The American Legion is a social veterans' organization for former and current members of the United States Armed Forces. The organization was chartered by the United States Congress on September 16, 1919, following World War I. The American Legion has been active in influencing political and social change, such as the founding of the U.S. Veterans Bureau, which was the forerunner of the Veterans Administration and later the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); efforts to pass a constitutional amendment prohibiting the physical desecration of the American flag; the creation of the American Legion Baseball program; the passing of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act, commonly known as the GI Bill of Rights; contributing to the launch of the National Association for Mental Health; sponsorship of an independent study on the effects of the exposure of Agent Orange, a herbicidal weapon, on veterans of the Vietnam War; as well as many other activities and achievements.
Photocopy of original 6.5 x 3.75 inch black and white photograph by R. E. Sodeblom: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Lee.
The American Legion Hall, located at the 300 Seminole Boulevard in Sanford, Florida. The log cabin was originally used as the American Legion Campbell-Lossing Post 53, which received the property from the City of Sanford during the Armistice Day celebrations on November 11, 1924. Mayor Forrest Lake dedicated the structure to the "future generations who would be better off because of the work of the American Legion." The cabin was constructed through private donations from local citizens and businesses, such as the Hill Lumber Company. A cannon from World War I was placed in front of the building on January 17, 1936, but the cannon was dismantled for scrap metal during World War II. The Sanford Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States acquired the building in 1973 and the American Legion moved to 3506 South Orlando Drive and later to 2874 South Sanford Avenue. Due to deterioration and poor conditions, inspector Gary Winn recommended demolition, which City Manager Bill Simmons approved. The American Legion is a social veterans' organization for former and current members of the United States Armed Forces. The organization was chartered by the United States Congress on September 16, 1919, following World War I. The American Legion has been active in influencing political and social change, such as the founding of the U.S. Veterans Bureau, which was the forerunner of the Veterans Administration and later the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); efforts to pass a constitutional amendment prohibiting the physical desecration of the American flag; the creation of the American Legion Baseball program; the passing of the Servicemen's Readjustment Act, commonly known as the GI Bill of Rights; contributing to the launch of the National Association for Mental Health; sponsorship of an independent study on the effects of the exposure of Agent Orange, a herbicidal weapon, on veterans of the Vietnam War; as well as many other activities and achievements.
Photocopy of original 6 x 4 inch color photograph: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Lee.
Charles Ernest Gormley Playing the Clarinet During World War I
Charles Ernest Gormley, an American soldier, playing the clarinet during World War I. Gormley was originally from Kansas, but he moved to Sanford, Florida, with his family shortly before WWI. Gormley served alongside his brother, George Gormley, in France from August 13, 1917, to April 14, 1919. His daughter, Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee, was the contributor of this photograph. Before entering World War I, the United States maintained a policy of neutrality, although the U.S. continued to supply the Allies: Great Britan, France, and Russia. The U.S. officially entered the war on April 6, 1917, in response to Germany's return to all-out submarine warfare on all commercial ships sailing for Great Britain and Germany's offer for military alliance to Mexico via the Zimmerman Telegram. The U.S. mobilized over four million military personnel through the course of American involvement in the war and lost 110,000 casualties. The U.S. vastly expanded its government and dramatically increase the size of its military during World War I.
Original 2.25 x 3.25 inch black and white photograph: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee.
Lee, Luticia "Tish" Gormley
George Gormley Playing the Clarinet During World War I
George Gormley, an American soldier, playing the clarinet during World War I. Gormley was originally from Kansas, but he moved to Sanford, Florida, with his family shortly before WWI. Gormley served alongside his brother, Charles Ernest Gormley, in France from August 13, 1917 to April 14, 1919. His niece, Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee, was the contributor of this photograph. Before entering World War I, the United States maintained a policy of neutrality, although the U.S. continued to supply the Allies: Great Britan, France, and Russia. The U.S. officially entered the war on April 6, 1917, in response to Germany's return to all-out submarine warfare on all commercial ships sailing for Great Britain and Germany's offer for military alliance to Mexico via the Zimmerman Telegram. The U.S. mobilized over four million military personnel through the course of American involvement in the war and lost 110,000 casualties. The U.S. vastly expanded its government and dramatically increase the size of its military during World War I.
A postcard showing United States Ship (USS) Nansemond (ID-1395), most likely around March 1919. Originally called Steamship (SS) Pennsylvania, this steamship was built by Hartland & Wolff in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1896 for the Hamburg-American Line. In 1917, the ship was seized by the United States Shipping Board (USSB). During World War I, Nansemond served in the Army Cargo and Transport Service until it was transferred to the U.S. Navy. On January 20, 1919, the steamship was commissioned in Hoboken, New Jersey, under Commander W. MacLeod of the U.S. Navy Reserve (USNR). USS Nansemond was assigned to the Naval Overseas Transportation Service (NOTS) and departed from New York on February 4, 1919. Carrying supplies for the U.S. Army, the ship arrived at Saint-Nazaire, France, on February 16 and then departed for Virginia on February 26. Carrying returning soldiers of the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF), Nansemond arrived at Newport News on March 11, 1919. In August, the steamship returned to New York to be decommissioned on August 25. USS Nansemond was returned to the USSB and then scrapped in 1924.
Original 5.5 x 3.5 inch sepia postcard, 1919: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee.
A U.S. Army squad of American soldiers, including brothers Charles Ernest Gormley and George Gormley, during World War I. The squad originally consisted of eight men per tent, but was later cut down to five men per tent. The Gormleys were originally from Kansas, but moved to Sanford, Florida, with their family shortly before WWI. The brothers served alongside each other in France from August 13, 1917 to April 14, 1919. Charles' daughter, Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee, was the contributor of this photograph. Before entering World War I, the United States maintained a policy of neutrality, although the U.S. continued to supply the Allies: Great Britan, France, and Russia. The U.S. officially entered the war on April 6, 1917, in response to Germany's return to all-out submarine warfare on all commercial ships sailing for Great Britain and Germany's offer for military alliance to Mexico via the Zimmerman Telegram. The U.S. mobilized over four million military personnel through the course of American involvement in the war and lost 110,000 casualties. The U.S. vastly expanded its government and dramatically increase the size of its military during World War I.
American Soldiers with Woman During World War I
Two American soldiers, presumably the Gormley brothers, with a woman during World War I. It is also likely that the woman photographed is a relative of the Gormleys. Charles Ernest Gormley and George Gormley were originally from Kansas, but moved to Sanford, Florida, with their family shortly before WWI. The brothers served alongside each other in France from August 13, 1917, to April 14, 1919. Charles' daughter, Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee, was the contributor of this photograph. Before entering World War I, the United States maintained a policy of neutrality, although the U.S. continued to supply the Allies: Great Britan, France, and Russia. The U.S. officially entered the war on April 6, 1917, in response to Germany's return to all-out submarine warfare on all commercial ships sailing for Great Britain and Germany's offer for military alliance to Mexico via the Zimmerman Telegram. The U.S. mobilized over four million military personnel through the course of American involvement in the war and lost 110,000 casualties. The U.S. vastly expanded its government and dramatically increase the size of its military during World War I.I.
Reprinted 4 x 6 inch black and white photograph, February 6, 2007: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee.
A fireless cooker and Lee Family heirloom in 2003. As of November 2013, the cooker was in the possession of Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee, who planned to will it to her daughter, Linda Lee Mallaskaski. The fireless cooker was originally owned by Lee's aunt, Mardy Lee, who arrived in Sanford, Florida, in 1910. Mardy would cook stones with a wood stove and then put the stones in the fireless cooker. She would then heat food in the pans and leave it in the fireless cooker overnight so that it would be ready to serve after church on Sundays. Fireless cookers are also known as hay boxes, straw boxes, insulation cookers, wonder ovens, and retained-heat cookers.
Photocopy of original 6 x 4 inch color photographs, September 29, 2003: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee
A Daughters of the Confederacy Chapter C. C. B. 348 ribbon owned by Jesse Street Roberts, the great aunt of the contributor of this item, Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee. Roberts migrated to Sanford, Florida, from Wilmington, North Carolina, sometime around 1910. Following the American Civil War, numerous associations were founded by women to organize the burials, funerals, commemorations, and monuments honoring the Confederacy. The majority of these individual associations were merged into the National Association of the Daughters of the Confederacy, led by Caroline Meriwether Goodlett and Anna Davenport Raines, on September 10, 1894 in Nashville, Tennessee, for daughters, granddaughters, and other female descendants of Confederate servicemen. In 1895, a meeting was held in Atlanta, Georgia, to change the name of the organization to the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC). The UDC was officially incorporated in Washington, D.C., on July 18, 1919. Roberts was presumably a member of the Daughters of the Confederacy, though it is not clear if this particular chapter was integrated into the UDC.
Original ribbon: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee.
Daughters of the Confederacy
A handwritten note listed the graduates of the Sanford High School Class of 1913 that attended the 50 Year Class Reunion held in June 1963. The graduates included: Albert Pattishall, lawyer and judge; Lenney Dean, minister; Wallace Crosby, engineer; Konner, doctor; Eleanor Gormley Roberts; Margaret Davis; and Selma Baker. The note was likely written by Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee. Sanford High School was originally established at 301 West Seventh Street in 1902. The building was designed by W. G. Talley in the Romanesque revival style. Due to an increasing student population, a new school building was constructed on Sanford Avenue in 1911. The original building on Seventh Street served as Westside Grammar Elementary School, which was later renamed Sanford Grammar School. In 1984, the building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places and converted into the Student Museum. The building reopened as the University of Central Florida's Public History Center in 2012. In 1927, a high school campus was designed by Elton J. Moughton in the Mediterranean revival style and constructed at 1700 French Avenue. The school reopened on January 10 and was renamed Seminole High School. In 1960, the high school moved to a new campus at 2701 Ridgewood Avenue and the former building on French Avenue was converted to Sanford Junior High School, which was later renamed Sanford Middle School. The old building was demolished in the summer of 1991 and replaced by a $5.77 million school complex. As of 2013, Seminole High School offers various Advanced Placement courses, the Academy for Health Careers, and the International Baccalaureate Programme for students.
Original note, June 1963: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee.
The Gormley Family around 1917. Photographed from left to right in the top row are W. Glenn Gormley, Charles Ernest Gormley Jr., Vera Gormley, George Gormley, and Willison Whitney. The bottom row pictures, from left to right, Nellie Gormley, Ray Gormley, Velma Gormley, and Charles Ernest Gormley, Sr. The Gormleys were originally from Kansas, but moved to Sanford, Florida, shortly before World War I. Charles Ernest Gormley, Sr. was the family patriarch and Nellie Gormley was his wife and the stepmother of his children: Charles, George, and Vera. The brothers, Charles and George, served alongside each other in France from August 13, 1917, to April 14, 1919. Charles, Jr.'s daughter, Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee, was the contributor of this photograph.
Reprinted 7 x 5 inch black and white photograph by Ralph R. Roszell, February 6, 2007: Private Collection of Luticia "Tish" Gormley Lee.
An oral history told by Nancy Harris Ford, an actress in the Creative Sanford, Inc. and Celery Soup: Florida's Folk Life Play production of Remade - Not Bought. Ford was raised in Sanford, Florida, and lived there until she graduated from Seminole High School in 1973. She returned to Sanford around 2009 and became involved with Celery Soup, a community theater project operated by Creative Sanford. This interview was conducted by Drew Fedorka on November 16, 2013, and focuses on the historical figure and character of Dr. George H. Starke, an African-American physician in Georgetown in Sanford. Other topics include Ford's biographical information, her decision to return back to Sanford after 36 years elsewhere, how she became involved with Creative Sanford and Celery Soup, her involvement in Touch and Go and Remade - Not Bought, and segregation.
Ford, Nancy Harris. Interviewed by Drew Fedorka. UCF Public History Center. November 16, 2013. Audio/video record available. RICHES of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
RICHES of Central Florida
Dr. George H. Starke's Office, Sanford, Florida
Dr. Edward D. Strickland's Office, Sanford, Florida
Oral history told by Trish Thompson, Vice President of Creative Sanford, Inc. The interview was conducted by Autumn Reisz and Mark Miller on October 11, 2013 and focuses on Thompson's experiences with Creative Sanford and Celery Soup. Other topics include adapting the Swamp Gravy model to Celery Soup, how Creative Sanford and Celery Soup have evolved over time, the oral history interviewing process, partnering with the African-American community, the effects of the George Zimmerman trial on Sanford, adapting oral histories into community plays, goals of Creative Sanford and Celery Soup, community involvement and feedback, fundraising and the Celery Ball, production costs, preserving the legacy of Creative Sanford and Celery Soup, and maintaining community involvement. Creative Sanford, Inc. is a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup community theater productions. The original idea for the Celery Soup project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, which took several years of planning. The play focused on how the people of Sanford overcame obstacles throughout their history. Some of these stories include the fall of Sanford's celery industry, the Freeze of 1894-1895, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. Richard Geer and Jules Corriere, partners from Community Performance International, were in charge of assessing oral histories, converting them into scenes for the play, and writing original songs. Director Geer also used an all-volunteer cast from the local community, many of which were not experienced actors. During the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which was located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra. The Creative Sanford offices are housed in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center, located at 203 East First Street. As of December 2013, the Executive Board for Creative Sanford included President Brian Casey, Vice President Trish Thompson, Treasurer Linda Hollerbach, Secretary Dr. Annye Refoe, and Founder Jeanine Taylor. The Board of Directors consisted of Cheryl Deming, Juanita Roland, Wendy Wheaton, and Dr. Connie Lester, a professor of history at the University of Central Florida. Honorary Board Members included: Glenda Hood, former Florida Secretary of State and Mayor of Orlando; Valada Flewellyn, a local poet, author, and historian; and Jackie Jones, a local entertainer and arts advocate.
Thompson, Trish. Interviewed by Autumn Reisz and Mark Miller. Creative Sanford, Inc. Offices, Sanford Welcome Center. October 11, 2013. Audio/video record available. RICHES of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Oral History of Luticia "Tish" Lee, Linda Maliczowski, and Catherine "Cathy" Dingle
Oral history of Luticia "Tish" Lee and her two daughters, Linda Maliczowski and Cathy Dingle. The interview was conducted by University of Central Florida Professor of History Dr. Scot French on October 20, 2013. Lee was born in Sanford, Florida in 1923 and lived in her family house, which was constructed in 1926, while growing up. Her father was a member of the American Legion and worked as a superintendent for the Crown Paper Company, and also as a carpenter. Following her high school graduation, Lee worked as a secretary for the local ice plant, which no longer stands. Other topics in the oral history include Sanford during World War II, the cannon at the American Legion Hall, the Lee family rolling pin and other family heirlooms, baking various foods, Lee's father, the grocery store run by Lee's mother and aunt, Lee's involvement with Creative Sanford, Inc. productions, a family fireless cooker, and the French house.
Lee, Luticia, Linda Maliczowski, and Cathy Dingle. Interviewed by Scot French. October 30, 2013. Audio/video record available. RICHES of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Creative Sanford, lnc., Sanford, Florida
Naval Air Station (NAS), Sanford, Florida
Oral history of Marilyn Maples, an actress in the Creative Sanford, Inc., and Celery Soup production of Remade - Not Bought. The interview was conducted by University of Central Florida Professor of History Dr. Scot French and graduate student Katie Kelley on October 19, 2013. Maples moved to Sanford, Florida, in 1993. As an actress, she played the roles of Marlene Baggs and Arthurene in Remade - Not Bought. Maples is also a member of the theatre committee, the volunteer coordinator, and a member of the marketing team for Creative Sanford and Celery Soup. The interview focuses mainly on Maples involvement with Creative Sanford and Celery Soup. Other topics include how Maples came to Sanford, how she became involved with Creative Sanford, the importance of preserving history through community theater, her acting roles in Remade - Not Bought, the Celery Soup production of Touch and Go, presenting difficult or dark history, segregation in Sanford, and Dr. George H. Starke.
Maples, Marilyn. Interviewed by Katie Kelley and Scot French. October 19, 2013. Audio/video record available. RICHES of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, Sanford, Florida
The original idea for the Celery Soup: Florida’s Folk Life Play project came from Jeanine Taylor, the owner of a folk-art gallery on First Street in Sanford, Florida. Their first production was Touch and Go, a play focusing on the people of Sanford and their determination to overcome various obstacles, including the Freeze of 1894-1895, the fall of Sanford's celery industry, and the closing of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sanford in the 1960s. Richard Geer and Jules Corriere, partners from Community Performance International, were in charge of assessing oral histories, converting them into scenes for the play, and writing original songs. Director Geer also used an all-volunteer cast from the local community, many of whom were not experienced actors. In the process of producing the show, Creative Sanford decided to rehabilitate an historic building, the Princess Theater, which is located on 115 West First Street and owned by Stephen Tibstra.
Oral history told by Peter Newman, playwright, director, and board member of Creative Sanford, Inc., a non-profit organization created to manage Celery Soup: Florida's Folk Life Play community theater productions. Celery Soup's first production was Touch and Go, a play about how the people of Sanford overcame obstacles throughout their history. This interview, conducted by Mark Miller, deals with topics such as the history of Creative Sanford, and Celery Soup, Newman's playwriting process, the Florida highwaymen, scripts that Newman wrote, the use of history as inspiration for plays, the importance of authenticity, the story of Dr. George H. Starke, dealing with sensitive issues and race relations, the interviewing process, and the community's reaction to Celery Soup's plays.
Newman, Peter. Interviewed by Mark Miller. Audio record available. RICHES of Central Florida.
Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Sanford, Florida