Celery Growing, City of Jacksonville Steamboat in the Background
Lake Monroe (Seminole County and Volusia County, Fla.)
Steamboats--Florida--St. Johns River--History
Postcard of a celery farm along the riverfront with the City of Jacksonville steamboat in the background. The origins of Sanford's connection to celery farming began on December 26, 1894, when a freeze damaged the area's citrus groves. They began to recover during a warm and wet January which promoted new shoots, but a second freeze hit on February 7, 1895, practically wiping them out. The 24 degree temperature was the coldest known in Florida to that point. The freeze was so intense that the sap froze inside the trunks, many of which split open, sounding like gunshots, and crashed to the ground. The population quickly dropped from 5000 to 2000 as the groves were abandoned. I.H. Terwilliger stayed after the freezes and is believed to have planted the first celery grown in Sanford in 1896. J.N. Whitner and B.F. Whitner Sr. planted 3/4 acre in 1897 with celery imported from Kalamazoo, Michigan. Chase & Company also converted to celery cultivation and by 1898, celery became the crop synonymous to Sanford. By the mid-1880s, Sanford, Florida had become a major distribution center due to the city's strategic location along Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River. Even before Florida obtained statehood, steamboats frequented the St. Johns River carrying U.S. Army soldiers to Fort Mellon, located on the shores of Lake Monroe, to defend the area against Native Americans during the Seminole Wars. Steamboats were used at the fort and during the Battle of Camp Monroe to relocate Seminoles, explore the St. Johns River, and to distribute military forces. During the second half of the 1830s, steamboats were used to tow barges from the river to Lake Monroe in order to stimulate trade. The first commercial steamboat was developed as the Brock Line in the early 1850s. As trade grew, various wharves and docks were built in locations such as Mellonville Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, Oak Street, and Sanford Avenue. The Debary-Baya Merchant Line began transporting passengers in 1883, which further developed the steamboat industry. The line was purchased by the Clyde Line in 1886 and remained open until 1933. The growth of railroads was the primary cause of the decline of the steamboat industry.
Original 9 x 14 centimeter color postcard by A.C. Bosselman & Company: Postcard Collection, call number PC3266, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
State Library and Archives of Florida
Dedication of the First State Farmers' Wholesale Market
The dedication of the Sanford State Farmers' Market on December 18, 1934. H. M. Papworth and Commissioner of Agriculture Nathan Mayo are standing at the podum and L. M. Rhodes is seated third from the right side of the flag. The Sanford State Farmers' Market was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Original 4 x 5 inch black and white photonegative, December 18, 1934: General Collection, call number N027333, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Produce for Sale at the First State Farmer's Market
Produce for sale at the grand opening of the Sanford State Farmers' Market on December 18, 1934. The Sanford State Farmers' Market was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Original 4 x 5 inch black and white photonegative, December 18, 1934: Prints Collection, call number N027331, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
The wharf in Lake Monroe in the 1890s. Lake Monroe is a lake that is part of the St. Johns River system in Florida and is also the eigth largest lake in the Orlando metropolitan area. Sanford is located on its northern shore and DeBary and Deltona are located along its northern shore. Two major roadways, State Road 415 and Interstate 4, run near the lake. Lake Monroe also formes the border of Seminole County and Volusia County.
Original 6 x 10 inch black and white photoprint by Ensminger Brothers Photography: Reference Collection, call number RC12561, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
The bridge and palm trees on Lake Monroe in 1913. Lake Monroe is a lake that is part of the St. Johns River system in Florida and is also the eigth largest lake in the Orlando metropolitan area. Sanford is located on its northern shore and DeBary and Deltona are located along its northern shore. Two major roadways, State Road 415 and Interstate 4, run near the lake. Lake Monroe also formes the border of Seminole County and Volusia County.
Original 6 x 10 inchblack and white photoprint, February 1913: Reference Collection, call number RC12560, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Sanford riverfront around 1907. The present-day Sanford area was originally inhabited by the Mayaca/Joroco natives by the time Europeans arrived. The tribe was decimated by war and disease by 1760 and was replaced by the Seminole Indians. In 1821, the United States acquired Florida from Spain and Americans began to settled in the state. Camp Monroe was established in the mid-1830s to defend the area against Seminoles during the Seminole Wars. In 1836, the United States Army built a road (present-day Mellonville Avenue) to a location called Camp Monroe during the Second Seminole War. Following an attack on February 8, 1837, the camp was renamed Fort Mellon in honor of the battle's only American casualty, Captain Charles Mellon. The town of Mellonville was founded nearby in 1842 by Daniel Stewart. When Florida became a state three years later, Mellonville became the county seat or Orange County, which was originally a portion of Mosquito County. Citrus was the first cash crop in the area and the first fruit packing plant was constructed in 1869. In 1870, a lawyer from Connecticut by the name of Henry Sanford purchased 12,548 acres of open land west of Mellonville. His vision was to make this new land a major port city, both railway and by water. Sitting on Lake Monroe, and the head of the St. Johns River, the city of Sanford earned the nickname of “The Gate City of South Florida.” Sanford became not only a transportation hub, but a leading citrus industry in Florida, and eventually globally. The Great Fire of 1887 devastated the city, which also suffered from a statewide epidemic of yellow fever the following year. The citrus industry flourished until the Great Freezes of 1894 and 1895, causing planters to begin growing celery in 1896 as an alternative. Celery replaced citrus as the city's cash crop and Sanford was nicknamed "Celery City." In 1913, Sanford became the county seat of Seminole County, once part of Orange County. Agriculture dominated the region until Walt Disney World opened in October of 1971, effectively shifting the Central Florida economy towards tourism and residential development.
Original 5 x 10 inch black and white photoprint: Reference Collection, call number RC12559, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
View of Pier and Waterfront from the St. John's River
The pier and riverfront in Sanford along the St. John's River. The present-day Sanford area was originally inhabited by the Mayaca/Joroco natives by the time Europeans arrived. The tribe was decimated by war and disease by 1760 and was replaced by the Seminole Indians. In 1821, the United States acquired Florida from Spain and Americans began to settled in the state. Camp Monroe was established in the mid-1830s to defend the area against Seminoles during the Seminole Wars. In 1836, the United States Army built a road (present-day Mellonville Avenue) to a location called Camp Monroe during the Second Seminole War. Following an attack on February 8, 1837, the camp was renamed Fort Mellon in honor of the battle's only American casualty, Captain Charles Mellon. The town of Mellonville was founded nearby in 1842 by Daniel Stewart. When Florida became a state three years later, Mellonville became the county seat or Orange County, which was originally a portion of Mosquito County. Citrus was the first cash crop in the area and the first fruit packing plant was constructed in 1869. In 1870, a lawyer from Connecticut by the name of Henry Sanford purchased 12,548 acres of open land west of Mellonville. His vision was to make this new land a major port city, both railway and by water. Sitting on Lake Monroe, and the head of the St. Johns River, the city of Sanford earned the nickname of “The Gate City of South Florida.” Sanford became not only a transportation hub, but a leading citrus industry in Florida, and eventually globally. The Great Fire of 1887 devastated the city, which also suffered from a statewide epidemic of yellow fever the following year. The citrus industry flourished until the Great Freezes of 1894 and 1895, causing planters to begin growing celery in 1896 as an alternative. Celery replaced citrus as the city's cash crop and Sanford was nicknamed "Celery City." In 1913, Sanford became the county seat of Seminole County, once part of Orange County. Agriculture dominated the region until Walt Disney World opened in October of 1971, effectively shifting the Central Florida economy towards tourism and residential development.
Original 7 x 9 inch black and white photoprint, 1892: Reference Collection, call number RC10449, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Steamship at the South Florida Railroad Company Pier
A steamship at the South Florida Railroad Company pier, which was built in 1880. The Lake Monroe and Orlando Railroad was organized in 1875. The charter planned to constructed a railroad from the St. Johns River port in Sanford south to Orlando. On October 16, 1878, the South Florida Railroad was incorporated but did not receive a charter until December 9, 1879, when it gained control over the Lake Monroe and Orlando Railroad charter. The first train on the new railroad ran between Sanford and Orlando on November 11, 1880. Henry Plant and his Plant System purchased three-fifths of the South Florida Railroad stock on May 4, 1883 and soon began laying tracks towards Tampa, whose railroad station opened on December 10, 1883. In 1893, the Savannah, Florida and Western Railway, which was also a part of the Plant System, acquired the South Florida Railroad. The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (ACL) acquired the entire Plant System in 1902. In 1967, the ACL merged with the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad, which is now operated by CSX. By the mid-1880s, Sanford, Florida had become a major distribution center due to the city's strategic location along Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River. Even before Florida obtained statehood, steamboats frequented the St. Johns River carrying U.S. Army soldiers to Fort Mellon, located on the shores of Lake Monroe, to defend the area against Native Americans during the Seminole Wars. Steamboats were used at the fort and during the Battle of Camp Monroe to relocate Seminoles, explore the St. Johns River, and to distribute military forces. During the second half of the 1830s, steamboats were used to tow barges from the river to Lake Monroe in order to stimulate trade. The first commercial steamboat was developed as the Brock Line in the early 1850s. As trade grew, various wharves and docks were built in locations such as Mellonville Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, Oak Street, and Sanford Avenue. The Debary-Baya Merchant Line began transporting passengers in 1883, which further developed the steamboat industry. The line was purchased by the Clyde Line in 1886 and remained open until 1933. The growth of railroads was the primary cause of the decline of the steamboat industry.
Original 9 x 6 inch black and white photoprint: Reference Collection, Call number RC07052, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Steamboat 'Clara' Sailing Past a Dock on Lake Monroe
Photograph of the Clara steamboat on Lake Monroe in the early twentieth century. By the mid-1880s, Sanford, Florida had become a major distribution center due to the city's strategic location along Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River. Even before Florida obtained statehood, steamboats frequented the St. Johns River carrying U.S. Army soldiers to Fort Mellon, located on the shores of Lake Monroe, to defend the area against Native Americans during the Seminole Wars. Steamboats were used at the fort and during the Battle of Camp Monroe to relocate Seminoles, explore the St. Johns River, and to distribute military forces. During the second half of the 1830s, steamboats were used to tow barges from the river to Lake Monroe in order to stimulate trade. The first commercial steamboat was developed as the Brock Line in the early 1850s. As trade grew, various wharves and docks were built in locations such as Mellonville Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, Oak Street, and Sanford Avenue. The Debary-Baya Merchant Line began transporting passengers in 1883, which further developed the steamboat industry. The line was purchased by the Clyde Line in 1886 and remained open until 1933. The growth of railroads was the primary cause of the decline of the steamboat industry.
Original 6 x 10 inch black and white photoprint: Reference Collection, call number RC02404, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Paddle Steamer 'City of Jacksonville' at the Dock
The DeBary Merchant Line dock and the City of Jacksonville steamboat in the 19th century. The dock was bought out by the Clyde Steamboat Company in 1889. The Clyde Line was established by Thomas Clyde in 1844 and connected Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with other east coast ports. In 1872, the headquarters moved to New York and began connections with the Caribbean Islands. Charles W. Morse's Consolidated Steamship Lines purchased the company in 1907, only to collapse the following year. In 1911, the Atlantic, Gulf & West Indies Steamship Lines began operating Clyde Line, which continued to be used under that name until 1932 when the line was combined with the Mallory Line to form the Clyde-Mallory Line. The Clyde-Mallory Line operated until 1949 when it was sold to the Bull Line. By the mid-1880s, Sanford, Florida had become a major distribution center due to the city's strategic location along Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River. Even before Florida obtained statehood, steamboats frequented the St. Johns River carrying U.S. Army soldiers to Fort Mellon, located on the shores of Lake Monroe, to defend the area against Native Americans during the Seminole Wars. Steamboats were used at the fort and during the Battle of Camp Monroe to relocate Seminoles, explore the St. Johns River, and to distribute military forces. During the second half of the 1830s, steamboats were used to tow barges from the river to Lake Monroe in order to stimulate trade. The first commercial steamboat was developed as the Brock Line in the early 1850s. As trade grew, various wharves and docks were built in locations such as Mellonville Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, Oak Street, and Sanford Avenue. The Debary-Baya Merchant Line began transporting passengers in 1883, which further developed the steamboat industry. The line was purchased by the Clyde Line in 1886 and remained open until 1933. The growth of railroads was the primary cause of the decline of the steamboat industry.
Original 3 x 5 inch black and white photonegative: Print Collection, call number PR09768, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Aerial View of Downtown Sanford on the St. John's River
Downtown Sanford in the 1940s, including Memorial Park, City Hall, and the Municipal Zoo, just after being relocated from its original location. Veterans Memorial Park in Sanford, Florida. The bandshell is part of the original park design and construction that was completed in 1925. By 1927, a flagpole and fountain were dedicated in memory of World War I veterans. The park was renamed Veterans Memorial Park in 1973 when it was rededicated to the memory of veterans of all American wars. The present-day Sanford area was originally inhabited by the Mayaca/Joroco natives by the time Europeans arrived. The tribe was decimated by war and disease by 1760 and was replaced by the Seminole Indians. In 1821, the United States acquired Florida from Spain and Americans began to settled in the state. Camp Monroe was established in the mid-1830s to defend the area against Seminoles during the Seminole Wars. In 1836, the United States Army built a road (present-day Mellonville Avenue) to a location called Camp Monroe during the Second Seminole War. Following an attack on February 8, 1837, the camp was renamed Fort Mellon in honor of the battle's only American casualty, Captain Charles Mellon. The town of Mellonville was founded nearby in 1842 by Daniel Stewart. When Florida became a state three years later, Mellonville became the county seat or Orange County, which was originally a portion of Mosquito County. Citrus was the first cash crop in the area and the first fruit packing plant was constructed in 1869. In 1870, a lawyer from Connecticut by the name of Henry Sanford purchased 12,548 acres of open land west of Mellonville. His vision was to make this new land a major port city, both railway and by water. Sitting on Lake Monroe, and the head of the St. Johns River, the city of Sanford earned the nickname of “The Gate City of South Florida.” Sanford became not only a transportation hub, but a leading citrus industry in Florida, and eventually globally. The Great Fire of 1887 devastated the city, which also suffered from a statewide epidemic of yellow fever the following year. The citrus industry flourished until the Great Freezes of 1894 and 1895, causing planters to begin growing celery in 1896 as an alternative. Celery replaced citrus as the city's cash crop and Sanford was nicknamed "Celery City." In 1913, Sanford became the county seat of Seminole County, once part of Orange County. Agriculture dominated the region until Walt Disney World opened in October of 1971, effectively shifting the Central Florida economy towards tourism and residential development.
Original 3 x 5 inch black and white photonegative: Print Collection, call number PR09758, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
A steamboat landing in Sanford in 1908. By the mid-1880s, Sanford, Florida had become a major distribution center due to the city's strategic location along Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River. Even before Florida obtained statehood, steamboats frequented the St. Johns River carrying U.S. Army soldiers to Fort Mellon, located on the shores of Lake Monroe, to defend the area against Native Americans during the Seminole Wars. Steamboats were used at the fort and during the Battle of Camp Monroe to relocate Seminoles, explore the St. Johns River, and to distribute military forces. During the second half of the 1830s, steamboats were used to tow barges from the river to Lake Monroe in order to stimulate trade. The first commercial steamboat was developed as the Brock Line in the early 1850s. As trade grew, various wharves and docks were built in locations such as Mellonville Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, Oak Street, and Sanford Avenue. The Debary-Baya Merchant Line began transporting passengers in 1883, which further developed the steamboat industry. The line was purchased by the Clyde Line in 1886 and remained open until 1933. The growth of railroads was the primary cause of the decline of the steamboat industry.
Original 3 x 5 inch black and white photonegative, 1908: Print Collection, call number PR09756, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Seminole Boulevard on the west edge of Sanford along Lake Monroe. Seminole Boulevard is the part of U.S. Highway 17 that runs along the coast of Lake Monroe in Sanford, Florida. U.S. Highway 17 begins in Punta Gorda, briefly runs east, and then goes north along Peace River through Arcadia, Zolfo Springs, and Wauchula. The road then joins U.S. Highway 98 at Fort Meade and continues northward until Bartow, when it separates to travel northeast. At Winter Haven, U.S. 17 becomes concurrent with U.S. Highway 92 through Kissimmee, where both highways join U.S. Highway 192. When all three roads meet U.S. Highway 441, U.S. 17/92 turns north into downtown Orlando and then splits from U.S. 441 at State Road 50/Colonial Drove and continues east until it turns north at State Road 15/Mills Avenue. In Sanford, U.S. 17/92 crosses over the St. Johns River into Volusia County and then splits north of DeLand as U.S. 17 travels north toward Palatka, again crossing the St. Johns River. The highway then continues through Clay County, suburban Jacksonville, and Nassau County until it reaches the Florida border. The entire highway spans across Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. Lake Monroe is a lake that is part of the St. Johns River system in Florida and is also the eigth largest lake in the Orlando metropolitan area. Sanford is located on its northern shore and DeBary and Deltona are located along its northern shore. Two major roadways, State Road 415 and Interstate 4, run near the lake. Lake Monroe also formes the border of Seminole County and Volusia County.
Original 4 x 6 inch color postcard by Orange News Company: Postcard Collection, call number PC5643, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Postcard of people fishing along Lake Monroe in Sanford, Florida. Lake Monroe is a lake that is part of the St. Johns River system in Florida and is also the eighth largest lake in the Orlando metropolitan area. Sanford is located on its northern shore and DeBary and Deltona are located along its northern shore. Two major roadways, State Road 415 and Interstate, run near the lake. Lake Monroe also forms the border of Seminole County and Volusia County.
Original 4 x 6 inch color postcard by Dukane Scenics: Postcard Collection, call number PC5642, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Sanford's riverfront canal and port, which is the largest in Central Florida, on Lake Monroe in Sanford, Florida. Lake Monroe is a lake that is part of the St. Johns River system in Florida and is also the eigth largest lake in the Orlando metropolitan area. Sanford is located on its northern shore and DeBary and Deltona are located along its northern shore. Two major roadways, State Road 415 and Interstate, run near the lake. Lake Monroe also formes the border of Seminole County and Volusia County.
Original 4 x 6 inch color postcard by Central Florida Distributors: Postcard Collection, call number PC5641, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Postcard of the water hyacinths in Lake Monroe near Sanford. Lake Monroe is a lake that is part of the St. Johns River system in Florida and is also the eigth largest lake in the Orlando metropolitan area. Sanford is located on its northern shore and DeBary and Deltona are located along its northern shore. Two major roadways, State Road 415 and Interstate, run near the lake. Lake Monroe also formes the border of Seminole County and Volusia County.
Original 9 x 14 centimeter color postcard by Frank Huld: Postcard Collection, call number PC5052, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Postcard of a steamboat and pier on the Sanford Riverfront. By the mid-1880s, Sanford, Florida had become a major distribution center due to the city's strategic location along Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River. Even before Florida obtained statehood, steamboats frequented the St. Johns River carrying U.S. Army soldiers to Fort Mellon, located on the shores of Lake Monroe, to defend the area against Native Americans during the Seminole Wars. Steamboats were used at the fort and during the Battle of Camp Monroe to relocate Seminoles, explore the St. Johns River, and to distribute military forces. During the second half of the 1830s, steamboats were used to tow barges from the river to Lake Monroe in order to stimulate trade. The first commercial steamboat was developed as the Brock Line in the early 1850s. As trade grew, various wharves and docks were built in locations such as Mellonville Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, Oak Street, and Sanford Avenue. The Debary-Baya Merchant Line began transporting passengers in 1883, which further developed the steamboat industry. The line was purchased by the Clyde Line in 1886 and remained open until 1933. The growth of railroads was the primary cause of the decline of the steamboat industry.
Original 9 x 14 centimeter black and white postcard by Plaxo Printing Press: Postcard Collection, call number PC3080, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
The Clyde Line Steamboat Company Dock on Lake Monroe in 1887. The Clyde Steamship Company operated the pier until 1930. The Clyde Line was established by Thomas Clyde in 1844 and connected Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with other east coast ports. In 1872, the headquarters moved to New York and began connections with the Caribbean Islands. Charles W. Morse's Consolidated Steamship Lines purchased the company in 1907, only to collapse the following year. In 1911, the Atlantic, Gulf & West Indies Steamship Lines began operating Clyde Line, which continued to be used under that name until 1932 when the line was combined with the Mallory Line to form the Clyde-Mallory Line. The Clyde-Mallory Line operated until 1949 when it was sold to the Bull Line.
Original 9 x 14 centimeter color postcard by Hugh C. Leighton Company: Postcard Collection, call number PC3079, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
St. John's River View Near Sanford, Fla.
Postcard of the St. John's River near Sanford. The St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida and is widely used both commercially and recreationally. The St. Johns begins in Indian River County and flows north all the way to Duval County, where it empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Much of the land along the river remained undeveloped frontier land up until the twentieth century. Many of Florida's rivers, including the St. Johns became overdeveloped and was altered for agricultural and residential centers, which caused severe pollution and other detrimental effects to the natural environment.
Original 9 x 14 centimeter color postcard by A.C. Bosselman & Company: Postcard Collection, call number PC2986, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
View of Cypress Tree Knees in Lake Monroe
Cypress trees at Lake Monroe in the 1920s. Lake Monroe is a lake that is part of the St. Johns River system in Florida and is also the eigth largest lake in the Orlando metropolitan area. Sanford is located on its northern shore and DeBary and Deltona are located along its northern shore. Two major roadways, State Road 415 and Interstate, run near the lake. Lake Monroe also formes the border of Seminole County and Volusia County.
Original 5 x 7 inch black and white photonegative: General Collection, call number PHA131, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
A steamboat landing in Sanford in the 1870s. By the mid-1880s, Sanford, Florida had become a major distribution center due to the city's strategic location along Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River. Even before Florida obtained statehood, steamboats frequented the St. Johns River carrying U.S. Army soldiers to Fort Mellon, located on the shores of Lake Monroe, to defend the area against Native Americans during the Seminole Wars. Steamboats were used at the fort and during the Battle of Camp Monroe to relocate Seminoles, explore the St. Johns River, and to distribute military forces. During the second half of the 1830s, steamboats were used to tow barges from the river to Lake Monroe in order to stimulate trade. The first commercial steamboat was developed as the Brock Line in the early 1850s. As trade grew, various wharves and docks were built in locations such as Mellonville Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, Oak Street, and Sanford Avenue. The Debary-Baya Merchant Line began transporting passengers in 1883, which further developed the steamboat industry. The line was purchased by the Clyde Line in 1886 and remained open until 1933. The growth of railroads was the primary cause of the decline of the steamboat industry.
Original 4 x 5 inch black and white photonegative: General Collection, call number N045351, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
'Grand Romance' Side-Wheeled Steamer Tour Boat
The Grand Romance steamer tour boat in the 1990s. By the mid-1880s, Sanford, Florida had become a major distribution center due to the city's strategic location along Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River. Even before Florida obtained statehood, steamboats frequented the St. Johns River carrying U.S. Army soldiers to Fort Mellon, located on the shores of Lake Monroe, to defend the area against Native Americans during the Seminole Wars. Steamboats were used at the fort and during the Battle of Camp Monroe to relocate Seminoles, explore the St. Johns River, and to distribute military forces. During the second half of the 1830s, steamboats were used to tow barges from the river to Lake Monroe in order to stimulate trade. The first commercial steamboat was developed as the Brock Line in the early 1850s. As trade grew, various wharves and docks were built in locations such as Mellonville Avenue, Palmetto Avenue, Oak Street, and Sanford Avenue. The Debary-Baya Merchant Line began transporting passengers in 1883, which further developed the steamboat industry. The line was purchased by the Clyde Line in 1886 and remained open until 1933. The growth of railroads was the primary cause of the decline of the steamboat industry.
Original 60 millimeter color transparency by James Gaines: Department of Commerce Collection, series number 1047, box 10, call number K893597, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Original 60 millimeter color transparency by James Gaines: Department of Commerce Collection, series 1047, box 10, call number K893598, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
U.S. Route 17 in Sanford, Florida, in 1958. U.S. 17 begins in Punta Gorda, briefly runs east, and then goes north along Peace River through Arcadia, Zolfo Springs, and Wauchula. The road then joins U.S. Highway 98 at Fort Meade and continues northward until Bartow, when it separates to travel northeast. At Winter Haven, U.S. Route 17 becomes concurrent with U.S. Route 92 through Kissimmee, where both highways join U.S. Route 192. When all three roads meet U.S. Route 441, U.S. 17-92 turns north into Downtown Orlando and then splits from U.S. 441 at Florida State Road 50 (Colonial Drive) and continues east until it turns north at Florida State Road 15 (Mills Avenue). In Sanford, U.S. 17-92 crosses over the St. Johns River into Volusia County and then splits north of DeLand as U.S. 17 travels north toward Palatka, again crossing the St. Johns River. The highway then continues through Clay County, suburban Jacksonville, and Nassau County until it reaches the Florida border. The entire highway spans across Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia.
Original 4 x 5 inch black and white photoprint by Charles Barron, January 1958: Department of Commerce Collection, call number C026666, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
The bandshell on Lake Monroe at Veterans Memorial Park in Sanford, Florida in 1949. The bandshell is part of the original park design and construction that was completed in 1925. By 1927, a flagpole and fountain were dedicated in memory of World War I veterans. The park was renamed Veterans Memorial Park in 1973 when it was rededicated to the memory of veterans of all American wars.
Florida Department of Commerce
Original 4 x 5 inch black and white photoprint by the Florida Department of Commerce, 1949: Department of Commerce Collection, call number C012100, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Sanford Baseball Association Game Ticket
Sanford Baseball Association game ticket to the first game played on August 27, 1908. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Original ticket by the Sanford Base Ball Association: "Sanford Base Ball Association." August 27, 1908: Library and Archives, Orange County Regional History Center, Orlando, Florida.
Blueprint of Sanford Memorial Stadium created by local Sanford architect Elton J. Moughton. The Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium is located at 1201 South Mellonville Avenue in Sanford, Florida. The stadium was built on the original site of the Sanford Municipal Athletic Field, which was erected in 1926. Many Major League stars have played in the stadium including Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays, Tim Raines, and David Eckstein. Sanford Stadium is best known as the location where Jackie Robinson first took to the field in 1946 to play baseball as a member of a white Class AAA International League Team in Daytona Beach, Florida, which was partnered with the Montreal Royals. By the time Robinson took the field, however, the crowd ended up booing him off before he could play. The police chief had actually threatened to cancel the game if Robinson took the field. Sanford Stadium was also used as the Spring Training Facility of the Boston Braves in 1942 and the New York Giants in 1951. In 2001, the stadium was refurbished, costing $2 million. During the 2009, Sanford Stadium was the home of the Seminole County Naturals of the Florida Winter Baseball League, which suspended operations during the season due to lack of funding. As of 2013, the stadium served as the home of the Sanford Babe Ruth Baseball League and the Sanford River Rats of the Florida Collegiate Summer League. The ballpark features 415 box seats and 1,600 bleacher seats. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Original blueprint created by Elton J. Moughton. Memorial Stadium. July 24, 1950: Library and Archives, Orange County Regional History Center, Orlando, Florida.
Official Schedule for the Sanford Lookouts, Florida State League
Official schedule of the Sanford Lookouts of the 1939 Florida State League. The cover page features a drawing of a batter and catcher. There are two advertisements and a list of games played by the Lookouts in the 1939 Season. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Florida State League
Original schedule by the Florida State League: "Official Schedule, Sanford Lookouts, Florida State League 1939." Sanford, Florida: Celery City Printing Company, 1939: Baseball Exhibit, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
Florida State League All-Star Baseball Game Souvenir Score Card
Souvenir score card to the Florida State League all-star baseball game at Municipal Ball Park in Sanford, Florida on Friday, August 20, 1940 at 8 p.m. The cover page features a photograph of the Sanford Seminoles, who would be facing the all-star team. The second page lists each member of the all-star team along with their statistics and spaces to score the player, and the third page offers the same information for the Sanford Seminoles. Both pages contain advertisements, as does the last page. This score card contains handwriting in pencil, revealing which players played which innings, the game statistics and score, and the fact that the game went into extra innings. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Original score card by the Florida State League: "Souvenir Score Card, Florida State League All-Star Baseball Game at Sanford, Friday, August 30, 1940." Sanford, Florida: Celery City Printing Company, 1940: Baseball Exhibit, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
Forty-six page record book for the Florida State League of professional baseball clubs, Class D, 1947. Information provided in the book includes a list of the league's presidents, the 1947 directors, official scorers, umpires, a photograph of the pennant-winning St. Augustine Saints, an editorial by League Secretary-Treasurer-Statistician Peter Schaal, the season in facts and figures, a list of members from every Florida State League all-star team from 1936 to 1947, photographs of some of the 1947 headliners, and a hand-drawn map of the area included in the league. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Original book by the Florida State League: "Florida State League Class D, Record Book," 1947: Baseball Exhibit, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
Brochure for the San Francisco Giants Camp for Boys in Sanford, Florida. The Giants Spring Training Facility offered a summer athletic experience for boys in order to gain extra revenue. The first page contains information on membership, rates, reservations, and visitors. Page two describes their policies on letter writing, insurance, miscellaneous, camp opening, and enrollment. Page three is an application, and page four contains a special message to the parents from Director Fred R. Ganas. In 1947, the City of Sanford collaborated with the New York Giants to layout and create a 10-diamond practice field. The Giants also owned the Mayfair Hotel and Mayfair Country Club and golf course until the early-1960s, and players would use these facilities when staying in town for training. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
San Francisco Giants
Original application by the San Francisco Giants: "The Giants' Camp for Boys, the Giants' Farm System Training Base, Sanford, Florida.": Baseball Exhibit, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
Ticket to the Merchants Day Baseball game at Memorial Stadium in Sanford, Florida on Friday, July 24, 1953 at 8 p.m. featuring the Lakeland team vs. the Sanford team. The Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium, located at 1201 South Mellonville Avenue in Sanford, Florida. The stadium was built on the original site of the Sanford Municipal Athletic Field, which was erected in 1926. Many Major League stars have played in the stadium including Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays, Tim Raines, and David Eckstein. Sanford Stadium is best known as the location where Jackie Robinson first took to the field in 1946 to play baseball as a member of a white Class AAA International League Team in Daytona Beach, Florida, which was partnered with the Montreal Royals. By the time Robinson took the field, however, the crowd ended up booing him off before he could play. The police chief had actually threatened to cancel the game if Robinson took the field. Sanford Stadium was also used as the Spring Training Facility of the Boston Braves in 1942 and the New York Giants in 1951. In 2001, the stadium was refurbished, costing $2 million. During the 2009, Sanford Stadium was the home of the Seminole County Naturals of the Florida Winter Baseball League, which suspended operations during the season due to lack of funding. As of 2013, the stadium served as the home of the Sanford Babe Ruth Baseball League and the Sanford River Rats of the Florida Collegiate Summer League. The ballpark features 415 box seats and 1,600 bleacher seats. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Original ticket: Merchants Day Baseball Game, Lakeland vs Sanford. Friday. July 24, 1953. Ticket 6498: Baseball Exhibit, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
Ticket to an all-star baseball game at Municipal Ball Park in Sanford, Florida on Friday, August 20, 1940 at 8 p.m. The cost of the ticket is 50 cents including tax, but excluding parking. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Original ticket by the Florida State League: All-star Baseball Game, Municipal Ball Park, Sanford, Florida. Friday, August 30, 1940. Section F, Row 2, Seat 11: Baseball Exhibit, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
The Florida State League All-Stars Ballot
This ballot is from the Florida State League with the purpose of selecting an all-start team to meet the Sanford team at the leagues's celebration of the 100th anniversary of baseballThe instructions are to vote for one man for each position, plus two right-handers, two left-handers, one manager, and one batboy. There is a maximum of 14 persons that one is allowed to vote for. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Original ballot by the Florida State League: "The Florida State League Invites you to Help Select the All-Star Team that Meets Sanford in Sanford, Friday, July 14, as the League Celebrates the 100th Anniversary of Baseball.": Baseball Exhibit, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
The San Francisco Giants' Camp for Boys, Sanford, Florida
Envelope for the San Francisco Giants' Camp For Boys in Sanford, Florida. The Giants' Spring Training Facility offered a summer athletic experience for boys in order to gain extra revenue. In 1947, the City of Sanford collaborated with the New York Giants to layout and create a 10-diamond practice field. The Giants also owned the Mayfair Hotel and Mayfair Country Club and golf course until the early-1960s, and players would use these facilities when staying in town for training. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Original envelope distributed by the San Francisco Giants: "The San Francisco Giants' Camp for Boys, Sanford, Florida.": Baseball Exhibit, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.