The Mostly Unfabulous Social Life of Ethan Green, August 31, 1994
The Mostly Unfabulous Social Life of Ethan Green comic from the inaugural issue of The Watermark, published on August 31, 1994. The comic strip was created by Eric Orner, an openly gay cartoonist, and centered around Ethan Green, a gay man trying to balance work with love. The comic was first published in 1989 and ran for 15 years before it was retired. The Mostly Unfabulous Social Life of Ethan Green was also adapted into film in 2005. Since 1994, The Watermark has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, The Watermark has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, The Watermark became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased The Watermark.
Original newspaper comic strip: Orner, Eric. The Mostly Unfabulous Social Life of Ethan GreenThe Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 1, August 31, 1994, page 18: Publications Collection, GLBT History Museum of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Watermark Media
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 29: Vol. 94, No. 4, Spring 2016
This podcast features an interview with Brad Massey, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Florida, about his article on the Florida phosphate industry and the political controversy surrounding its arrangement with the Soviet Union in 1974.
Original 24-minute and 18-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2016: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
The Florida Historical Quarterly
Florida Historical Society
University of Central Florida, Department of History
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 28: Vol. 94, No. 3, Winter 2016
This podcast features an interview with Dr. James G. Cusick, the curator of the P. K. Yonge Library of Florida History at the University of Florida Library and author of The Other War of 1812: The Patriot War and the American Invasion of Spanish East Florida, published by the University of Georgia Press. He edited the special issue on the first part of the 19th century. In this podcast, Dr. Cusick discusses the authors and articles that appear in this issue.
Original 27-minute and 9-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2016: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Andersonville Prison, Andersonville, Georgia
Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967), who served as the Mayor of Orlando, Florida, from 1956 to 1967. Mayor Carr is best known for being the first mayor in Orlando to promote civil rights while in office. He was also the first mayor to hire minority police officers to the Orlando Police Department (OPD) and established the Biracial Committee. Before he was mayor, Carr was an active businessman for 30 years in the city of Orlando, and was responsible for establishing the first Community Chest in 1938. He was a also member of the First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. Mayor Carr died while in office.
Original black and white photograph: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando City Hall, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Mayor Carl T. Langford's (1918-2011) gavel, which was used to bring Orlando City Council meetings to order. The gavel is made of wood, with a metal ring attaching the handle to the head of the gavel. Mayor Langford shepherded Orlando, Florida, through a period of rapid growth due to the opening of Walt Disney World in 1917. He served as mayor from 1967 to 1980, and was known for his sense of humor and personable behavior. Mayor Langford is responsible for converting McCoy Air Force Base, which housed B-52 strategic bombers, into Orlando International Airport, which is his lasting legacy on the city.
Original gavel: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
The Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida, in the 1960s or 1970s. During that same decade, Orlando experienced a population boom. Due to this increase in population, the city needed to expand its public buildings to accommodate the changes that were happening in the city. Prior to the construction of the fourth city hall, pictured here, the municipal government officers were housed on the top floor of the Armory Building on Jefferson Street and Orange Avenue. The Orlando Public School was built in 1906 on Jackson Street and Orange Avenue. It served its purpose as a school until the year 1922. In 1924, the City of Orlando bought the school for $115,000 and moved city hall into the empty building. Along with city hall being located here, the Orlando Police Department (OPD) and the city jail were located in the basement.
A model of a B-52G bomber plane from McCoy Air Force Base. The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is a long range, heavy bomber that entered military service in 1955. The primary role and purpose of the B-52 was strategic bombing and nuclear deterrence; two roles that were essential for a Cold War bomber. From 1952 to 1962, Boeing Company produced 744 B-52s. Out of those 744 B-52s built, 193 were G models. In 1961, McCoy Air Force Base in Orlando, Florida, acquired the B-52. McCoy Air Force base was a key strategic base for the U.S. Air Force’s Strategic Air Command (SAC). SAC was in charge of all strategic bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles within the continental United States. With the B-52 located at such a strategic Air Force base, it was capable of performing one of its main roles, nuclear deterrence.
Original model airplane: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall/a&gt
Orlando Steam Laundry Company and Dixie Sales & Service
The Orlando Steam Laundry Company, located at 43 West Concord Avenue, and Dixie Kuhr’s Dixie Sales & Service in Orlando, Florida. Orlando Steam Laundry Co. was first established in 1900 and was officially incorporated on January 1, 1923. While originally located on Concord Ave., the company later moved to 1705 Depauw Avenue. The president was Arthur H. Hillman, the Treasurer was Bernard D. Sommers, and the Director was Sally A. Hillman. The company is no longer in business, as it shut its doors on April 16, 1975. Orlando Steam Laundry Company was a model of efficiency. Each bundle of laundry was sorted by fabric and color before being sent to the battery of washers, where each customer’s laundry was kept separate by nets and put into compartments. The clothes would be washed and the water would be removed by centrifugal extractors that were so gentle that they would not damage a single button. Rollers would finish the work to keep everything flat and then the clothes would be sent to a specific finishing machine for every different type of article of clothing. From here, they would be boxed up and sent back out to the people on one of their service cars.
Orlando Steam Laundry Company, Downtown Orlando, Florida
A Minnesota Twins baseball cap. The Minnesota Twins have been part of the history of Orlando, Florida, since 1936. Originally, this baseball club was founded in 1901 as the Washington Senators. The Washington Senators spent 34 years in 11 different locations for spring training before finally coming to Orlando in 1936. From 1936 to 1942, the team played preseason games at Tinker Field. In 1943, the Senators moved to College Park, Maryland, through 1945, before returning to Tinker Field in 1946. In 1960, the team owner Calvin Griffith (1911-1999) moved his team home to Minneapolis, Minnesota, and they officially became the Minnesota Twins. The team continued spring training in Orlando until 1990.
Original baseball cap: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Metropolitan Stadium, Bloomington, Minnesota
Mayor Carl T. Langford's Small Key to the City of Orlando
The small city key presented to Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011). Mayor Langford later presented this key to George Hill in 1973. Little information is known on who George Hill was or why he was being honor with a key to the city. Langford was elected to the Office of Mayor on March 7, 1967, to fill the vacancy left when Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) died in office. Mayor Langford served through 1980. He was a businessman who strived to follow the code of the City of Orlando and enforce all laws as they were stated. Mayor Langford played a significant role in expanding Orlando with the installation of the Orlando International Airport, which is his main legacy. He also served as mayor during the Civil Rights Movement and played a role in integrating the city. Mayor Langford created a program to help African Americans pass the required written exam to enter the police academy and he also created a policy that allowed African Americans to become firemen, which made Orlando the first city in the state of Florida to have African American firefighters.
Original key: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
The fire alarm for the fire safety system in the 1958 Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The building was located on the corner of South Street and Orange Avenue and acted as the place of governance for the growing Orlando area. The fire alarm allowed the building to fit into the newly formulated fire safety regulations, acting as one of the fire protection features. This was following the scramble for fire safety in 1956 when more than 713 calls were made concerning fires and costs overwhelming damaging the city’s wallet at an estimated overall cost of more than $300,000. City Council’s involvement with the firefighters in the city saw huge improvement in 1954 when the council approved a salary raise for the workers.
Original fire alarm: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Maximum Occupancy Sign at Orlando City Hall
The sign depicts the maximum occupancy for the Orlando City Council Chambers within the Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The building was located on the corner of South Street and Orange Avenue and acted as the place of governance for the growing Orlando area. The sign was created to maintain the fire safety codes which used the number of exits, as one of the fire protection features, to determine the maximum occupancy of a room. This was following the scramble for fire safety in 1956 when more than 713 calls were made concerning fires and costs overwhelming damaging the city’s wallet at an estimated overall cost of more than $300,000. City Council’s involvement with the firefighters in the city saw huge improvement in 1954 when the council approved a salary raise for the workers.
Original sign: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida, as it appeared from 1958 to 1991. The building was located on the corner of South Street and Orange Avenue and acted as the place of governance for the growing Orlando area. The painting was created by James Stoll and is paired with the Orlando Remembered Exhibit located in the Orlando City Hall Building, located at 400 South Orange Avenue. The 1958 city hall was designed by Richard Boone Rogers and constructed by the C. A. Finland Company of Tampa. Dedicated on October 3, 1958, the building was faced with Tennessee marble, Minnesota granite and terrazzo stones. The Orlando Utilities Commission was located within the building from 1958 to 1967, when it moved into a $3.5 million building at 500 South Orange Ave. The Orlando Police Department (OPD) remained in the previous city hall building, which was the original Orlando Public School, across the street. In January of 1972, OPD and the city jail relocated to the Municipal Justice Building at 100 South Hughey Avenue.
Original oil painting by Jim Stoll: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Temporary Glenn L. Martin Company Facility
A temporary building on Elwell Street used by the Martin Company while the company's main plant was being constructed on Orange Blossom Trail and Sand Lake Road in Orlando, Florida. The Martin Company was a missile manufacturer that expanded to the Orlando area in 1956 to be closer to Cape Canaveral and the heart of the Space Race. This building was previously used as a facility for the U.S. Army Air Corps and was located at the Orlando International Airport. The building remained in use by the Martin Company for several years after the completion of their main plant, which was located about four miles south of Orange Blossom Trail.
Digital reproduction of original black and white photographic print: "Martin Orlando Engineering Facility on Elwell Street in 1957." Orlando Memory. http://www.orlandomemory.info/sites/default/files/styles/full_size_image/public/image_files/MartinOrlandoElwellStreet.jpg?itok=yVLJfzUK.
Glenn L. Martin Company, Orlando, Florida
Glenn L. Martin Company Plant Construction
The original Martin Company plant during its construction. The site was located on Orange Blossom Trail and Sand Lake Road, about four miles south of in Orlando, Florida. The Martin Company purchased the land from the City of Orlando in 1956 for almost two million dollars. The Martin Company was a missile manufacturer that expanded to the Orlando area in 1956 to be closer to Cape Canaveral and the heart of the Space Race. While this building was under construction, a temporary building on Elwell Street was used by the Martin Company.
Digital reproduction of original black and white photographic print: "The Glenn L. Martin Company Plant Site, circa 1957." Orlando Memory. http://orlandomemory.info/memory/image/glenn-l-martin-company-plant-site-circa-1957.
An aerial view of Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida, in the 1960s or 1970s. Along with city hall, several other buildings are viewable in the background, namely the American Fire and Casualty Company. The photograph is titled "This is Orlando" and contains no publishing information, dates, or discernible origin. At the bottom of the photograph, there is a sentence highlighting the cities desirable parking situation and convenient size. Accompanying this image is a plaque transcribed with a quote by Ormund Powers, whose words highlight the change the city was experiencing during that time. Powers was a journalist for The Orlando Sentinel whose career spanned seven decades.
Original black and white photographic print: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
American Fire and Casualty Company, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Mayor Carl T. Langford with Orlando Chief of Police Bob Chewning
Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011) and Chief of Police Robert Joseph Chewning (b. 1923) with the Orlando Police Department (OPD). Mayor Langford is pictured third from the left in the first row and Chief Bob Chewning is the fourth from the left. Mayor Langford was elected as Orlando's 29th mayor in 1967 when his predecessor, Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967), died in office. Mayor Langford served for over a decade as Orlando's mayor from 1967 to 1980. He helped foster Orlando's growth from a boom town in the middle of the 20th century. As one of his first acts as mayor, Mayor Langford appointed Chewning as OPD Chief of Police in 1967. Chief Chewning has previously served on the mayor’s inaugural staff and he retired as the city’s Director of Public Safety in 1976.
Home under construction on Silver Drive in Downtown Orlando, Florida. During the 1950s and 1960s, Orlando underwent one of the biggest building booms within its history. The 1952 census of the city registered a total of 18,513 housing units within Orlando, an increase of over 6,262 new structures since the last census in 1940. New construction companies, such as Phillips Properties began building up large residential areas throughout the city, many of which still stand today. The houses of Silver Drive, which were predominantly constructed during the early 1950s, were one such example and showcases the scale of these developmental projects.
Digital reproduction of original 11 x 6 inch black and white photographic print: "The homes on Silver Drive under construction, circa 1950." Orlando Memory. http://www.orlandomemory.info/sites/default/files/styles/full_size_image/public/image_files/SD.jpeg?itok=oKgajgYL.
Silver Drive, College Park, Orlando, Florida
The cover from the October 1986 issue of the Central Florida magazine, which highlights the economic boom in Orlando, Florida, under Mayor Bill Frederick (b. 1934), who served as mayor from 1980 to 1992. The growing city was, during this time, facing numerous internal issues, including an inadequate sewage system, heavy traffic, and a congested metropolitan center that locals worried was detracting from the beauty of the city. Mayor Frederick was considered instrumental in implementing many structural and economic reforms from a new transportation system to the construction of major city landmarks. During his time in office, Mayor Frederick would be responsible for several major renovations, including the refurbishment of Lake Eola, the expansion of Orlando International Airport, and the erection of a new city hall. A strong supporter of education and the arts, Mayor Frederick would also work to improve public schools for the city and go on to lay the foundation necessary for the construction of what would eventually become Central Florida’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
Original magazine: Central Florida Magazine, October 1986: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Central Florida Magazine
Orlando International Airport, Orlando, Florida
The newly constructed Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida, as it looked in 1958 upon its completion. Located on the southwest corner of South Orange Avenue and South Street, construction of the new city hall began in 1956 with the building fully operational two years later. Under the administration of Mayor William Beardall (1890-1984), plans for the construction of a newer and larger city hall had been in the works since as early as 1950, with the city received an advanced grant of $28,500 for what would eventually become a $1,052,500 facility. Totaling a span of 85,000 square feet, the building was eight stories high with the infrastructure required for the possibility of an additional six floors. Designed by architect Richard Boone Rogers, it would go on to replace the old Orlando Public School Building on South Orange Avenue as the main residence for the city government. The Orlando Public School Building had served as Orlando’s City Hall since 1924. On October 24, 1991, the building would be imploded to make way for the current city hall. The moment of implosion was captured on film and the footage of the blast famously used in the 1992 film Lethal Weapon 3.
Original 9 x 11 inch black and white photographic print, 1958: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Three items are from the Howard's Grocery Store, which most likely came from the location at 4200 South Orange Avenue in Downtown Orlando, Florida, between 1930 and 1980. The company has been in operation since its founding in 1912 by Julian Howard. While it is labeled as a grocery store, it is in fact a wholesale warehouse which would supply the local restaurants and grocery stores with the products requested. The other two items seem in the image are a food label for Howard's Grocery's brand of spaghetti sauce and a receipt from for a restaurant named Emerick Cafe, which ordered supplies from Howard's Grocery.
Original black and white photograph, 1912: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Original food label: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Original sales receipt, June 6, 1940: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Howard Grocery Company, Downtown Orlando, Florida
A railroad spike from the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (ACL). This railroad spike most likely came from the discontinued lines in the Orlando-Sanford area of Florida. These railways were in use from 1902 to 1967 when the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad (SCL) was formed and took control of the former ACL tracks. The railways were a main mode of transporting goods in Central Florida, until the roads were paved with the economic boom of the post-World War II era. These railroads helped the cattle, dairy, and citrus industry thrive in Central Florida and help create the economic boom in post-war years.
Original railroad spike: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
The cornerstone commemorative brick of the Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. From 1906 to 1924, this brick was part of Orlando Public School, located at 1 West Jackson Street. In 1922, the school was moved to a new building and Orlando City Hall and the Orlando Police Department (OPD) was moved to the old school building in 1924. In 1958, it became headquarters for the OPD and city hall was moved to a new building at 400 South Orange Avenue. On February 28, 1972, when Carl T. Langford (1918-2011) was the mayor, the cornerstone was removed for commemoration.
Original commemorative brick: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando Public School, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Orlando Police Department, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Colonel Michael Norman Wright McCoy and Mayor J. Rolfe Davis at Pinecastle Air Force Base
Colonel Michael Norman Wright McCoy (1905-1957), commanding officer of Pinecastle Air Force Base, with J. Rolfe Davis (1904-1988), who served as Mayor of Orlando from 1953 to 1956, at Pinecastle AFB in Orlando, Florida. Col. McCoy died in a flight demonstration of a Boeing B-47 Stratojet. The bomber had a faulty wing and crashed north of Orlando. As a result, Pinecastle Air Force Base became, McCoy Air Force Base to honor the memory of Col. McCoy. In 1974, McCoy AFB officially closed. What used to be McCoy Air Force Base is now Orlando International Airport. Some of the base property went to private companies for research purposes.
Pinecastle Air Force Base, Orlando, Florida
Mayor Bob Carr at the First Orlando City Council Meeting in the New Orlando City Hall
Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) at the first Orlando City Council meeting in the new 1958 Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. Photographed, from left to right, are: Grace Avera, council secretary; William G. Stewart, city clerk; A. B. Herndon, Director of Public Works; George A. Baker, councilman; Claude R. Edwards (ca. 1922-2002), who later became a judge for the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida; Mayor Carr; W. M. Sanderlin (b. ca. 1925), councilman; Wilbur H. Strickland; J. Edward Greaves, Director of Finance, and John G. Baker, city attorney. The city hall was built in 1958 and was later demolished in 1991. Mayor Carr was mayor when the greatest growth took place in Orlando with Walt Disney (1901-1966) announcing plans to build the Walt Disney World Resort just outside the city. In 1967, Mayor Carr died from a heart attack while still in office.
Original color photographic print: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
A bottle for storing medicine used by pharmacists in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Many glass bottles were manufactured and embossed with information, such as the store address, name of the doctor or prescription, etc. The bottles were not restricted by any of the properties of the medicine, and thousands of glass bottles were produced. Pharmacies like Enzor's Pharmacy sold medicine in bottles like these from their opening through the Great Depression and into the modern era until plastic bottles came into production. Also known as Enzor's Drug Store and Restaurant, Enzor's was located on the block as the original Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. Enzor's opened in the old Avalon Hotel in 1925 and then reopened when the old building was razed and replaced in 1956. The pharmacy was named after William Enzor, who owned the business in the 1940s. In 1983, the business was bought by James J. Rowlison and became Rowlinson's Restaurant.
Original medicine bottles: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Enzor's Pharmacy, Downtown Orlando, Florida
The keys to the Orlando City Council chambers. The key was the only key that would unlock the door to the Council chambers. The key opened a pin tumbler lock, which had five pins that responded when depressed by the key. This type of key format was patented in 1851. Attached to the chain is a disc that was more than likely designed to prevent theft, as well as to prevent the key from getting lost as it was the only key that could open the council chambers. It is likely that this key was the original used in the city hall built in 1958, which remained in use until 1991.
This painting highlights notable businesses and the Orlando City Hall located in Downtown Orlando, Florida in 1951. Featured in the piece is South Street and the South West Corner of Boone Street. At the center of the piece is the Orlando City Hall which was constructed in 1906 originally to serve as the Orlando Public School. On the right is the headquarters of the American Fire and Casualty Company, which is the only distinguishable business in the piece. In 1951, visitors would have seen many flourishing businesses such as Howard's Grocery Company, Borden Dairy, Orlando Linen Service, as well as the Dixie Sales and Service Garage. The piece was painted by artist Jim Stoll in conjunction with Orlando Remembered.
Orlando Linen Service, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Borden's Dairy, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Dixie Sales & Service, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Joe Croy's Filling Station, Downtown Orlando, Florida
McElroy Apartments, Downtown Orlando, Florida
American First & Casualty Company, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Buttons from the Orlando Steam Laundry in Downtown Orlando, Florida. Originally called Mann Laundry, the business was first located on East Pine Street. The laundry was later purchased by I. N. Burman and J. N. Wigfall, Jr. in 1919, who renamed it the Orlando Steam Laundry and moved the business to 43 West Concord Avenue. In 1923, the company was sold to a stock company. Orlando Steam Laundry went out of business in April of 1975. Its last known address is 1705 Depauw Avenue.
Original buttons: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
A key to the city of Orlando. The size of the key represents the importance of the key. The "Key to the City" tradition comes from the medieval "Freedom of the City" tradition. The recipient of this key or this honor received the privilege to enter or leave the city whenever he or she wanted. In the past, cities only gave this honor to its military personnel and its outstanding civilians. In today's world, cities give it to its people and others who are not residents, but have a strong connection with the city. This is the highest honor that a person can receive from a city. There is usually a ceremony when this honor is being given to someone. Musicians, sportsmen, and actors have been chosen to receive this award time to time in the distant past. The mayor is often the person who presents the key to the recipient in the United States.
The Orlando Police Department (OPD) motor patrol in 1948, with Lieutenant Vernon "Bulldog" Rogers in the center. The OPD was established in 1875, the same year Orlando became incorporated into a city with only 22 votes. The motor patrol was first created during the 1930s with the purchase of four patrol cars and a motorcycle in 1934. Lt. Rodgers was the first officer in the department to ride the OPD's 1200cc front-end Harley Davidson.
Original black and white photograph, 1948: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando Police Department, Orlando City Hall, Downtown Orlando, Florida
McElroy Apartments was originally a building owned by Sylvan McElroy Sr., whose family was one of the first settlers in Orlando, Florida, arriving in 1881. McElroy attended Rollins Academy (present-day Rollins College) in Winter Park, the Stetson University in DeLand, and received his medical degree from a medical school in Maryland. He opened his medical practice in 1908, and was a founder of the Orange General Hospital, now known as the Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC). Prior to 1926, he hired designer George Krug, who was well known for his Colonial Revival-style architecture, to help build his new apartment building on Orange Avenue, two blocks north of Lake Lucerne. In the early 1960s, after McElroy, passed away, the City of Orlando bought the property and demolished the apartments, in order to build a parking garage for Orlando Utilities. Today, the garage belongs to the International Restaurant &amp
The City of Orlando acquired a new city hall in 1958. Situated at the corner of South Orange Avenue and South Street in Downtown Orlando, the 1958 city was located very close to where the current city hall stands. The 1958 city hall was a large eight-story upgrade from the previous city hall. Prior to 1924, the city government offices were housed in the former building for the Orlando Public School. In 1924, city hall was relocated and the Orlando Police Department (OPD) took over the old school building. The 1958 city hall was imploded 1991 for the filming of Lethal Weapon 3. The current Orlando City Hall was built on the same lot, with its signature dome roof while being overshadowed by large skyscrapers in the heart of Downtown Orlando at the corner of Orange Avenue and South Street.
Original black and white photographic print, 1958: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor William Beardall hard at work in his office (1890-1984). Beardall served as Mayor of Orlando from 1940 to 1952. Mayor Beardall made improvements to Orlando International Airport by expanding upon it and creating a larger terminal. Progress in the city’s sewer system was guided by Mayor Beardall along with improved street paving and a new incinerator plant.
A brochure concerning the construction of the Orlando City Hall in Orlando, Florida. The brochure outlines the city officials responsible in the various steps of its conception, construction, and design processes. A brief stapled on the inside of the front cover details the construction materials as well as the technical features of the building. A majority of the brochure consists of floor plan designs. The building was designed by noted Orlando architect Richard Boone Rogers under the administration of Mayor William Beardall (1923-2011), and was constructed on land acquired during the administration of Mayor J. Rolfe Davis (1904-1988). The building was constructed by Tampa-based firm C.A. Fielland from 1956 to 1958 during the administration of Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967). Dedicated on October 3, 1958, the building served as Orlando’s city hall until its implosion on October 25, 1991, following the construction of a new City Hall less than ten feet away as a product of Mayor Bill Frederick’s efforts to beautify and improve Orlando. The building's implosion is featured in a scene from the Warner Bros.’ 1992 film Lethal Weapon 3.
Orlando Chamber of Commerce
Original 12-page brochure by the Orlando Chamber of Commerce, 1958: Call No. FLORIDA 975.924 Orl , Orlando Public Library, Orlando, Florida.
An advertisement produced to showcase the advent of mid-century modernism in Orlando, Florida. The film depicts marketing strategies aimed at attracting white middle-to-upper class men in either military or defense technology engineering professions. It emphasizes the economic, cultural, and social changes taking place within Orlando that make it an ideal place to raise a family and to live a fulfilling life. The film also depicts developments and signs of growth that occurred in Orlando before the Walt Disney World Resort opened.
Original 14-minute and 28-second color film: Action Center USA. Directed by Grant Gravitt (Orlando, FL: Tel Air Interests, Inc.): State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
Orlando Public Library, Orlando, Florida
Central Florida Museum, Orlando, Florida
In Commemoration of a Former Landmark of the City of Orlando
A plaque commemorating the former 1958 Orlando City Hall, which was imploded on October 25, 1991, for the filming of Lethal Weapon 3. The building was replaced by a new one in 1991 as a product of Mayor Bill Frederick’s (b. 1934) efforts to beautify and improve Orlando. The city hall was designed by noted Orlando architect Richard Boone Rogers under the administration of Mayor William Beardall (1890-1984), who served from 1940 to 1952, and the land was acquired during the administration of Mayor J. Rolfe Davis (1904-1988), who served from 1953 to 1956. The building was constructed by Tampa-based firm C. A. Fielland from 1956 to 1958 during the administration of Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967), who served from 1956 to 1967. Dedicated October 3, 1958, the building served as Orlando’s City Hall until its implosion on October 25, 1991, following the construction of a new city hall less than 10 feet away.
Original commemorative plaque: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
An "L" from the 1958 Orlando City Hall in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The building was designed by noted Orlando architect Richard Boone Rogers under the administration of Mayor William Beardall (1890-1984), who served from 1940 to 1952, and the land was acquired during the administration of Mayor J. Rolfe Davis (1904-1988), who served from 1953 to 1956. The building was constructed by Tampa-based firm C. A. Fielland from 1956 to 1958 during the administration of Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967), who served from 1956 to 1967. Dedicated October 3, 1958, the building served as Orlando’s City Hall until its implosion on October 25, 1991, following the construction of a new city hall less than 10 feet away.
Original letter: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
The implosion of the 1958 Orlando City Hall, which was featured in Lethal Weapon 3. During Mayor Bill Frederick’s (b. 1934) campaign to beautify and transform Orlando, a new city hall had been built to replace the one built in 1958 under Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967). Through the marketing efforts of Orlando-based production manager Oscar Testagrossa, the city government’s desire to demolish the old city hall attracted the attention of Hollywood production company Silver Pictures. A $50,000 agreement between the City of Orlando and the production company for exclusive rights to footage of the implosion worked to offset the $80,000 demolition cost. The demolition was contracted to the Orlando firm Chapman &amp
Sons, Inc. with its explosives phase subcontracted to Controlled Demolition, Inc. (CDI) of Phoenix, Maryland. Before the demolition, the new city hall—less than 10 feet away—was insured for $20 million. Through a collaborative effort between CDI and Warner Bros. to synchronize 180 pounds of explosives and 400 special effects charges, the building collapsed within six seconds.
Original color film still: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
"Right to Know" Award for Mayor Carl T. Langford
This wooden wall mount was awarded to Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011) by the Sigma Delta Chi Chapter, a local journalism fraternity, in 1968. Langford was elected to the Office of Mayor on March 7, 1967, to fill the vacancy left when Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) died in office. Mayor Langford served through 1980. A businessman, Mayor Langford played a significant role in expanding Orlando with the installation of the Orlando International Airport. He also served as mayor during the Civil Rights Movement and played a role in integrating the city. Mayor Langford promoted the inclusion of African Americans in the city police academy. He also created a policy that allowed African Americans to become firemen, making Orlando the first city in the state to have African-American firefighters.
Original plaque, 1968: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor Carl T. Langford and the Orlando City Council
Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011) and members of the Orlando City Council. Standing from left to right are District 2 City Commissioner Shelton Adams, District 3 City Commissioner Thomas M. Brownlee, District 1 City Commissioner Donald L. Crenshaw and District 4 City Commissioner Arthur "Pappy" Kennedy. Seated from left to right are a contractor, Mayor Carl Thomas Langford and Grace Ann Chewning. Kennedy was the first African-American city commissioner for Orlando. Chewning was the city clerk and the wife of the Orlando Police Department's (OPD) Chief of Police, Robert Joseph Chewning. Langford was elected to the Office of Mayor on March 7, 1967, to fill the vacancy left when Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) died in office. Mayor Langford served through 1980. A businessman, Mayor Langford played a significant role in expanding Orlando with the installation of the Orlando International Airport. He also served as mayor during the Civil Rights Movement and played a role in integrating the city. Mayor Langford promoted the inclusion of African Americans in the city police academy. He also created a policy that allowed African Americans to become firemen, making Orlando the first city in the state to have African-American firefighters.
Original color photograph: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
Mayor Carl T. Langford's Big Key to the City of Orlando
The city key presented to Mayor Carl T. Langford (1918-2011). Langford was elected to the Office of Mayor on March 7, 1967, to fill the vacancy left when Mayor Bob Carr (1899-1967) died in office. Mayor Langford served through 1980. A businessman, Mayor Langford played a significant role in expanding Orlando with the installation of the Orlando International Airport. He also served as mayor during the Civil Rights Movement and played a role in integrating the city. Mayor Langford promoted the inclusion of African Americans in the city police academy. He also created a policy that allowed African Americans to become firemen, making Orlando the first city in the state to have African-American firefighters.
Mayor William Beardall's Key to the City of Orlando
The city key presented to Mayor William Beardall (1890-1984). Beardall served as Mayor of Orlando from 1940 to 1952. He served four consecutive terms through the turbulent years of World War II and its aftermath. While in office he upgraded the city infrastructure including construction of a new sewage plant, expansion of paved roads and highways, and various airport additions, all of which aided the overall growth of the city.
This older model wooden police baton was used as a non-lethal alternative when making arrests. This baton was owned by Robert Joseph Chewning (b. 1923), who had served as Chief of Police for the Orlando Police Department (OPD) from 1967 to 1973. Chief Chewning was born October 22, 1923, in Baltimore, Maryland. After serving in the Eighth Air Force (8 AF) of the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II, he migrated to Central Florida and began his law enforcement career with OPD in 1946. While Chief Chewning was in office he made great strides in modernizing the agency. He instituted several progressive programs, including issuing portable radios to patrol officers. One of his successful plans was to give financial aid to officers under his charge to pursue higher education and obtain their college degrees. Chief Chewning later served as the Director of Public Safety for Orange County.
Original nightstick: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 6, November 9, 1994
The sixth issue of The Watermark was published on November 9, 1994, and discusses community reactions to several LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) issues. Notably, the major issue covered was a discussion of Tom Woodard, a police officer who five years earlier revealed he was gay and fought for the right to remain employed despite that. This issue also addressed community reactions to the death of Marion Baker, who was a larger than life gay activist, even though she was straight. The paper also continues its trend of publishing international articles this time focusing on, the Supreme Court consideration to ban gays from adoption, a lesbian couple in Utah being denied family housing, a man who was shot in San Francisco for holding another man’s hand, and Russia’s requirement for international visitors to be tested for HIV/AIDS. Another article focuses on southeast exclusive grocery chain, Publix attempting to convince its voting customers to vote in alignment with the Religious Right. An important note is that this issue is missing two-pages, pages 15 and 16. Since 1994, The Watermark has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, The Watermark has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, The Watermark became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased The Watermark.
Original 28-page newspaper: The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 6, November 9, 1994: Publications Collection, GLBT History Museum of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 5, October 26, 1994
The fifth issue of The Watermark was published on October 26, 1994, and attempted to balance family and politics in dealing with national LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) issues. This new perception allowed the front page to have an article on the developing Gay Neighborhoods in Orlando and on the involvement of gay voters in upcoming elections. Another major section of the paper was dedicated to the scandal revolving around state representative Jimmy Charles, and the sex solicitation case that he was involved in that resulted in him addressing homosexuals in the same breath as pedophiles, delinquents, pimps, and more. Continuing its trend of publishing international stories, this issue addresses the Oregon Citizen Alliance accusing gays as being key participants in the Holocaust, a Colorado anti-gay bill being declared unconstitutional, and the World Health Organization’s addressing of a vaccine to treat HIV. Another issue covered was the inequality of credit for LGBTQ+ members and the proposed gay credit union for Orlando. Finally, this issue saw a spike in advertisements specifically targeting HIV+/AIDS patients. Since 1994, The Watermark has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, The Watermark has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, The Watermark became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased The Watermark.
Original 28-page newspaper: The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 5, October 26, 1994: Publications Collection, GLBT History Museum of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 4, October 12, 1994
The fourth issue of The Watermark was published on October 12, 1994, and shifted toward a heavier political focus dealing with national LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) issues. The front page is primarily dedicated to the discussion on the participations of "Gays in the Local Media." The other portion of the front page discusses how local politicians participate in the Metropolitan Business Association (MBA) Forum, notably addressing the political careers of Buddy Dyer (b. 1958) and Fran Pignone. The discussion of the articles and articles on the next page discuss the need to maintain anti-discrimination laws. The issue also addresses the HIV-AIDS Institute disconnecting from the University of Central (UCF_, and the remaining offices of HIV-AIDS Education and the "Info-Maniacs," a peer education program. The issue then continued the trend of publishing international issues such as, Maryland’s decision on Parental Rights for gay parents, San Francisco’s fight for non-discrimination for private businesses, and South Africa’s condemnation of Gay Pride. This fourth issue also saw the return of discussion about parties and circuit life, this time covered in an article about Madis Gras in Australia. Since 1994, The Watermark has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, The Watermark has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, The Watermark became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased The Watermark.
Original 24-page newspaper: The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 4, October 12, 1994: Publications Collection, GLBT History Museum of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 3, September 28, 1994
The third issue of The Watermark was published on September 28, 1994 and continued to focus on family-orientated LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) issues. The front page was dedicated to two articles, one about the rapidly increasing gay marriage movement, and the other focusing on National Coming Out Day. The third page included a half page obituary for Charles W. Hummer III, who died of AIDS of September 19, 2016. The paper continued to publish more national stories this time including, New York’s push to include "significant others" on insurance benefits, the limitations put on lesbian mothers in Utah, and a dental discrimination case in Texas. The paper also continues to discuss discrimination in schools that had started in the previous issue. Since 1994, The Watermark has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, The Watermark has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, The Watermark became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased The Watermark.
Original 24-page newspaper: The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 3, September 28, 1994: Publications Collection, GLBT History Museum of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Hilton Walt Disney World Village, Orlando, Florida
The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 2, September 14, 1994
The second issue of The Watermark was published on September 14, 1994, and focused on a wider spectrum of LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) topics. Kicking off the news was the cover article covering the "Gayby Boom," which was the push for LGBTQ+ members to have children. Continuing a more family-focused set of articles was an article covering the harassment of gay teens at Apopka High School, a look at the LGBTQ+ community housing market, and a new section of restaurant reviews. This issue also included a larger selection of national news stories, including Oregon’s Anti-Gay initiative, Seattle’s Domestic Partnership Registration, North Carolina’s attempt to keep records of unmarried couples, and the U.S. Navy’s reinstatement of a gay sailor are among the highlights. Notably missing are articles covering the nightlife of the area, through advertisements are still present. As the publication ages and spreads, nightlife becomes one of its primary sections so seeing an early issue without demonstrates the evolving nature of the publication during its early years. Since 1994, The Watermark has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, The Watermark has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, The Watermark became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased The Watermark.
Original 24-page newspaper: The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 2, September 14, 1994: Publications Collection, GLBT History Museum of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 1, August 31, 1994
The inaugural issue of The Watermark was published on August 31, 1994, and focused on several hot topics that were abuzz in the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) community. Hit topics included the cover story interviewing Married… With Children co-star Amanda Bearse (b. 1958) who was promoting her new special Out There II, an all LGBTQ+ comedy special. Similar topics of LGBTQ+ public exposure are scattered throughout the issue, including Fran Pigone, a pro-LGBTQ candidate for Orange County Commission Chairman, "Florida’s Freshest Fruit," an all LGBTQ improv troupe, and Brian Fagan, a gay man and one of Orlando’s premier runners. This first issue also included national LGBTQ+ news stories such as California’s Spousal Rights Bill, Yale’s same-sex partner health care plans, and Maine’s anti-gay initiatives. Another major component of the issue was discussion about Orlando’s LGBTQ+ nightlife locations and opportunities. In this issue, it was discussed that Tracks, a prominent bar had closed, and that Boxcars had opened in its place. Boxcars subsequently published a full page ad on the final page of the issue. Since 1994, The Watermark has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, The Watermark has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, The Watermark became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased The Watermark.
Original 24-page newspaper: The Watermark, Vol. 1, No. 1, August 31, 1994: Publications Collection, GLBT History Museum of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Notice of Public Hearing on Lake Apopka Restoration
A notice of a public hearing to be held by Senator Walter Sims and Senator Kenneth A. Plante (1939-2015) of the Florida Senate. The purpose of the hearing was to collect information and allow for public input into a potential effort for the restoration of Lake Apopka. Sen. Sims organized a committee for restoring Lake Apopka in 1975, focusing on the lake drawdown method for restoring the lake. Lake drawdown is a method of environmental restoration that is used to control erosion and aquatic vegetation. Lake drawdown has also been sought as a potential method to lessen the effects of pollution by exposing the lake bed and allowing bottom sediments to dry, trapping pollutants. Opponents of lake drawdowns cite the impact of polluted water on areas downstream of the area being drained, in cases where the targeted lake is connected to a river system. Citrus growers have also opposed drawdowns on the grounds that draining large lakes makes nearby citrus groves more vulnerable to freezes, as lakes help keep temperatures stable throughout the year. Drawdowns of Lake Apopka have been sought by restoration efforts dating back to the 1960s, beginning with the Lake Apopka Restoration Project, organized by Governor Claude R. Kirk Jr. (1926-2011) and headed by C.W. Sheffield. These efforts were delayed and no drawdown was performed by the project. Plans for a drawdown continued to be developed, and federal and state efforts to gather funds and perform feasibility studies began in 1970. An experimental drawdown of Lake Apopka was performed in 1971, lowering the lake level by four feet, but was halted after public fears that wildlife deaths in the area were the result of the drawdown. Drawdown plans continued through the 1970s, but were continually delayed and projected costs for the project rose sharply. The project was cancelled by Governor Bob Graham (b. 1936) in 1979.
Original 1-page typewritten notice, February 21, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
This report by Gary I. Sharp lists information related to the Gourd Neck Springs area of Lake Apopka and a potential purchase of the area by the State of Florida through the Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) Program. The report aims to show why the area is suitable for a public park, describing physical and environmental characteristics of the area, as well as summarizing the economic issues related to a public purchase of the area, including zoning information from the Lake County Zoning Department and appraisal values from Danny L. Dulgar. The report also discusses an inspection of the area by the Environmentally Endangered Lands Committee, which rejected the site due to the polluted quality of the lake surrounding the area, as well as its small size. Finally, the report includes hydrological data related to the springs. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state. The Environmentally Endangered Lands Program (EEL) was formed in 1972 as part of the larger Land Conservation Act of 1972. The EEL program was initially funded through the sale of state bonds. The program was designed to help the state acquire lands considered environmentally sensitive and was not designed for creating areas for recreational use. Potential sites for acquisition could be suggested by citizens, county and state governments, and nonprofit organizations. After evaluation for environmental value, potential sites would be approved by the Executive Director of the Florida Department of Natural Resources and finalized by the Governor. In 1979, the former Executive Director, Harmon Shields, was indicted on corruption charges involving the lands-acquisition process. Following this scandal, the EEL program was replaced by Conservation and Recreation Lands Program. This change replaced the program's funding with tax revenues instead of bond sales, and formed the Land Acquisition Selection Committee, made up by six executive directors of Florida environmental agencies, to select sites for approval by the governor. The Division of State Lands was also created as a division of the Department of Natural Resources to oversee mapping and evaluation of potential sites for acquisition.
Original 10-page typewritten report: Sharp, Gary I. Gourd Neck Springs. Winter Park, FL: 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Walter Sims to Gary I. Sharp (March 18, 1975)
A letter from Senator Walter Sims to Gary I. Sharp, dated March 18, 1975. In this letter, Sen. Sims writes to express personal support for Sharp's proposal that the Gourd Neck Springs area of Lake Apopka be used as a public park. Sen. Sims states that the plan would aid in restoration efforts for the lake. He also states that he feels the park would be acquired through private means, rather than public funds, and then potentially donated to the state. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from Walter Sims to Gary I. Sharp, March 18, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from James Milton Thomas to Gary I. Sharp (November 10, 1975)
A letter from James Milton Thomas to Gary I. Sharp, dated November 10, 1975. In this letter, Thomas, an environmental consultant, writes to in support of Sharp's proposal that the State of Florida acquire the Gourd Neck Springs area for use as a public park. Thomas briefly describes various plant species that he has identified in his surveys of the area, including rare species like the Tulip Tree and the Needle Palm. Thomas also states that the area has both environmental and recreational value, and a park in the area may help alleviate overcrowding at other parks like Wekiwa Springs State Park. Thomas later served as the first president of the Friends of Lake Apopka (FOLA) after its formation in 1991, working as an advocate for restoration of the lake. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from James Milton Thomas to Gary I. Sharp, November 10, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Peter C. H. Pritchard to Gary I. Sharp (June 3, 1975)
A letter from Peter C. H. Pritchard (b. 1943) to Gary I. Sharp, dated June 3, 1975. In this letter, Dr. Pritchard, Vice President of the Florida Audubon Society, writes in support of Sharp's proposal that the Gourd Neck Springs area of Lake Apopka be acquired for use as a public park. Dr. Pritchard states that the area is too small for purchase under the State of Florida's Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) program, but that the area has environmental value and would be worth acquiring by the public. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from Peter C. H. Pritchard to Gary I. Sharp, June 3, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Kenneth A. Plante to Gary I. Sharp (June 27, 1975)
A letter from Senator Kenneth A. Plante (1939-2015) to Gary I. Sharp, dated June 27, 1975. In this letter, Sen. Plante states that he endorses a potential purchase by the State of Florida of the Gourd Neck Springs area for use as a potential recreational park. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from Kenneth A. Plante to Gary I. Sharp, June 27, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Richard H. Langley to Gary I. Sharp (February 24, 1975)
A letter from Florida State Representative Richard H. Langley to Gary I. Sharp, dated February 24, 1975). In this letter, Rep. Langley endorses the potential acquisition of the Gourd Neck Springs area by the State of Florida. Rep. Langley states his endorsement is given only on the condition that the state prohibits further discharge into Lake Apopka. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from Richard H. Langley to Gary I. Sharp, February 24, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Gourd Neck Springs, Lake Apopka, Florida
Letter from Helen M. Hood to Gary I. Sharp (May 21, 1975)
A letter from Helen M. Hood, chair of the Parks and Endangered Lands Committee of the Florida Defenders of the Environment (FDE), to Gary I. Sharp, dated May 21, 1975. In this letter, Hood states that the FDE endorsed Sharp's proposal to form a recreational park in the Gourd Neck Springs area. Hood states that the FDE did not consider the area to qualify as endangered land, but agrees with Ney Landrum, director of the Florida Park Service from 1970 to 1989, that the site had potential for recreational use. Hood cites potential future growth in Central Florida as a reason for the site to be acquired for the public. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from Helen M. Hood to Gary I. Sharp, May 21, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Bob Entwistle to Gary I. Sharp (April 24, 1975)
A letter from Bob Entwistle, chair of the Orlando Regional Group of the Sierra Club's Florida Chapter, to Gary I. Sharp, dated April 24, 1975. In this letter, Entwistle finds merit in Sharp's proposal to have the Gourd Neck Springs area considered for purchase through the state's Environmentally Endangered Lands Program (EEL). Sharp states that he considers the site to have value in light of future growth projections of Central Florida, and classifies the site as a "high category 2, or low category 1" area. The Environmentally Endangered Lands Program (EEL) was formed in 1972 as part of the larger Land Conservation Act of 1972. The EEL program was initially funded through the sale of state bonds. The program was designed to help the state acquire lands considered environmentally sensitive and was not designed for creating areas for recreational use. Potential sites for acquisition could be suggested by citizens, county and state governments, and nonprofit organizations. After evaluation for environmental value, potential sites would be approved by the Executive Director of the Florida Department of Natural Resources and finalized by the Governor. In 1979, the former Executive Director, Harmon Shields, was indicted on corruption charges involving the lands-acquisition process. Following this scandal, the EEL program was replaced by Conservation and Recreation Lands Program. This change replaced the program's funding with tax revenues instead of bond sales, and formed the Land Acquisition Selection Committee, made up by six executive directors of Florida environmental agencies, to select sites for approval by the governor. The Division of State Lands was also created as a division of the Department of Natural Resources to oversee mapping and evaluation of potential sites for acquisition. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from Bob Entwistle to Gary I. Sharp, April 24, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from William J. Cappleman to Gary I. Sharp (May 16, 1975)
A letter from William J. Cappleman of the Cappleman Agency, Inc. to Gary I. Sharp, dated May 16, 1975. In this letter, Cappleman states that they have received calls from landowners in the Gourd Neck Springs area seeking to sell their plots, as well as calls from interested buyers. The letter states that there is little interest in the sale of large individual tracts of land in the Gourd Neck area, and that they are working to divide a large holding by Herbert S. Starr into smaller sized plots for purchase. The letter also states the Cappleman Agency had made appointments with interested buyers to examine Sharp's property in the Gourd Neck area. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from William J. Cappleman to Gary I. Sharp, May 16, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from William A. Breeze to Gary I. Sharp (February 11, 1975)
A letter from William A. Breeze, president of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, to Gary I. Sharp, dated February 11, 1975. In this letter, Breeze discusses the potential use of the Gourd Neck Springs area for a recreational park. Breeze states that the chamber, along with the Orlando Area Chamber of Commerce, co-sponsored a meeting of interested persons and state officials to discuss environmental restoration in the Ocklawaha Basin, including Lake Apopka. In this meeting, Breeze states it was agreed that the Gourd Neck Springs area should be restored for use as a park. The letter also states that due the area's current state of segmented private ownership, the land needs to be purchased by either the State of Florida or the federal government before use as a park. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from William A. Breeze to Gary I. Sharp, February 11, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
West Orange Chamber of Commerce, Winter Garden, Florida
Orlando Area Chamber of Commerce, Orlando, Florida
Letter from James A. Glisson to Gary I. Sharp (June 25, 1975)
A letter from Florida state Senator James A. Glisson (b. 1939) to Gary I. Sharp, dated June 25, 1975. In this letter, Sen. Glisson states that he would be in favor of the State of Florida acquiring the Gourd Neck Springs area for use as a recreational park. Sen. Glison was a member of the Florida House of Representatives from 1968 to 1972, representing the 33rd district, and served in the Florida State Senate, representing the 11th district, from 1973 to 1978. Gourd Neck Springs is a small spring located in the southwest portion of Lake Apopka, in a small cove called “Gourd Neck” due to its distinctive shape. This area of the lake was considered in the 1960s as a potential nursery for fish. The Lake Apopka Technical Committee explored damming the Gourd Neck, separating it from the lake and preventing polluted lake water from entering, but these plans did not materialize. Efforts were also made in the 1960s to have the Gourd Neck area purchased by the State of Florida for use as a public park. The Gourd Neck Springs Park Association was formed in 1961 to study the site’s potential for a park and lobby for support from legislators. The land bordering the area was privately-owned by various individuals. One of these, Gary I. Sharp, continued seeking support for a park into the 1970s. While the project received support from Florida legislators and environmentalists, the land was never purchased by the state.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from James A. Glisson to Gary I. Sharp, June 25, 1975: binder 1975, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
An oral history interview of Warren McFarland, a telegrapher, train dispatcher, railroad station agent, grocery clerk, Railroad Safety and Service Agent, Assistant Regional Director and Regional Manager for the Interstate Commerce Commission, and Director of the Office of Compliance and Consumer Assistance. The interview was conducted by Geoffrey Cravero at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida, on January 28, 2016. Some of the interview topics covered include McFarland’s early years and formative experiences, his family life, growing up as the son of a railroad station agent and telegrapher in a railroad depot, World War II, railroad work and telegraphy in his time versus his father’s time, his first job as a grocery clerk, the “extra board” and railroad seniority, working for the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, the Morse Telegraph Club, female telegraphers, American Morse Code versus International Morse Code, acquiring a piece of the first transcontinental telegraph line, train dispatching, overcoming communication limits, an explanation of telegrapher’s paralysis, and Guglielmo Marconi’s contributions to wireless telegraphy.
McFarland, Warren. Interviewed by Geoffrey Cravero. Audio/video record available. RICHES of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
RICHES of Central Florida
Avon Park Atlantic Coast Line Train Station, Avon Park, Florida
Frances Perkins Building, Washington, D.C.
Golden Spike National Historic Site, Brigham City, Utah
The home of Dedra Jenkins in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida, in 1995. Jenkins ran a village home called Bwerani House from 2000 to 2009. Bordered on the east by Division Street and on the west by Orange Blossom Trail (OBT), the Parramore began as an agricultural community. Parramore was historically a segregated African-American community and now comprises three separate downtown neighborhoods: Lake Dot, Callahan, and Holden-Parramore. Once an economically thriving area and the home of many prominent black businesses and institutions, including the Wells’ Built Hotel, South Street Casino, and Wallace’s Beauty Mill, Parramore suffered under Jim Crow segregation, and has lost 65 percent of its population in the last 50 years. It is now one of Orlando’s poorest neighborhoods, with an unemployment rate of 23.8 percent in 2015. However, neighborhood institutions like the Well's Built Museum of African American History and Culture, housed in the historic Wells’ Built Hotel, have worked to preserve memorabilia from Orlando’s African-American community and the local civil rights movement. Current plans to revitalize the Parramore area focus on maintaining its black heritage and culture while building new businesses, schools, and improved housing.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph by Dedra Jenkins, 1995: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Bwerani House, Holden-Parramore, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Benjamin Jenkins, the son of Dedra Jenkins, playing with his pet cat, Sir Boots, in the yard of his home in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida, in 1992. Bordered on the east by Division Street and on the west by Orange Blossom Trail (OBT), the Parramore began as an agricultural community. Parramore was historically a segregated African-American community and now comprises three separate downtown neighborhoods: Lake Dot, Callahan, and Holden-Parramore. Once an economically thriving area and the home of many prominent black businesses and institutions, including the Wells’ Built Hotel, South Street Casino, and Wallace’s Beauty Mill, Parramore suffered under Jim Crow segregation, and has lost 65 percent of its population in the last 50 years. It is now one of Orlando’s poorest neighborhoods, with an unemployment rate of 23.8 percent in 2015. However, neighborhood institutions like the Well's Built Museum of African American History and Culture, housed in the historic Wells’ Built Hotel, have worked to preserve memorabilia from Orlando’s African-American community and the local civil rights movement. Current plans to revitalize the Parramore area focus on maintaining its black heritage and culture while building new businesses, schools, and improved housing.
Original 3 x 4 inch color photograph by Dedra Jenkins, 1992: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Jeremiah Jenkins, the son of Dedra Jenkins, playing with a pet dog in the driveway of his home in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida, in 1995. Bordered on the east by Division Street and on the west by Orange Blossom Trail (OBT), the Parramore began as an agricultural community. Parramore was historically a segregated African-American community and now comprises three separate downtown neighborhoods: Lake Dot, Callahan, and Holden-Parramore. Once an economically thriving area and the home of many prominent black businesses and institutions, including the Wells’ Built Hotel, South Street Casino, and Wallace’s Beauty Mill, Parramore suffered under Jim Crow segregation, and has lost 65 percent of its population in the last 50 years. It is now one of Orlando’s poorest neighborhoods, with an unemployment rate of 23.8 percent in 2015. However, neighborhood institutions like the Well's Built Museum of African American History and Culture, housed in the historic Wells’ Built Hotel, have worked to preserve memorabilia from Orlando’s African-American community and the local civil rights movement. Current plans to revitalize the Parramore area focus on maintaining its black heritage and culture while building new businesses, schools, and improved housing.
Original 3 x 4 inch color photograph by Dedra Jenkins, 1995: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Dedra Jenkins' family and friends in the yard of her home in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida, in 1988. The two boys on the left are Gaius Jenkins and Enoch Jenkins. Dedra Jenkins is standing in the center with her mother, Christine McClendon, below her. The three small girls in front are Heavenly Webb, on the right, and her two unidentified sisters. On the upper right is Jenkins' sons, Jeremiah Jenkins and Ben Jenkins. Bordered on the east by Division Street and on the west by Orange Blossom Trail (OBT), the Parramore began as an agricultural community. Parramore was historically a segregated African-American community and now comprises three separate downtown neighborhoods: Lake Dot, Callahan, and Holden-Parramore. Once an economically thriving area and the home of many prominent black businesses and institutions, including the Wells’ Built Hotel, South Street Casino, and Wallace’s Beauty Mill, Parramore suffered under Jim Crow segregation, and has lost 65 percent of its population in the last 50 years. It is now one of Orlando’s poorest neighborhoods, with an unemployment rate of 23.8 percent in 2015. However, neighborhood institutions like the Well's Built Museum of African American History and Culture, housed in the historic Wells’ Built Hotel, have worked to preserve memorabilia from Orlando’s African-American community and the local civil rights movement. Current plans to revitalize the Parramore area focus on maintaining its black heritage and culture while building new businesses, schools, and improved housing.
Original 3 x 4 inch color photograph, 1988: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Nathaniel Jenkins and Dedra Jenkins on Halloween
Dedra Jenkins and her son, Nathaniel Jenkins, trick-or-treating outside of Albertsons grocery store, which was located on Orange Avenue and Michigan Street in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Bordered on the east by Division Street and on the west by Orange Blossom Trail (OBT), the Parramore began as an agricultural community. Parramore was historically a segregated African-American community and now comprises three separate downtown neighborhoods: Lake Dot, Callahan, and Holden-Parramore. Once an economically thriving area and the home of many prominent black businesses and institutions, including the Wells’ Built Hotel, South Street Casino, and Wallace’s Beauty Mill, Parramore suffered under Jim Crow segregation, and has lost 65 percent of its population in the last 50 years. It is now one of Orlando’s poorest neighborhoods, with an unemployment rate of 23.8 percent in 2015. However, neighborhood institutions like the Well's Built Museum of African American History and Culture, housed in the historic Wells’ Built Hotel, have worked to preserve memorabilia from Orlando’s African-American community and the local civil rights movement. Current plans to revitalize the Parramore area focus on maintaining its black heritage and culture while building new businesses, schools, and improved housing.
Original 4 x 7 inch color photograph: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Youth participants on the City of Orlando Youth Baseball Team, which operated from 1999 to 2003. The team eventually had youths up to 14 years old playing baseball, and would play in Grand Avenue Park. The contributor's son, Nathaniel Jenkins, is pictured fourth from the front of the photograph. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph, 1999: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Grand Avenue Park, Holden Heights, Florida
Students and volunteers at Restore Orlando's game night in the early-to-mid 1990s. The child behind the dartboard is Ashley Williams. Her brother, Joshua Williams, is to the right of the dartboard. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph, 1995: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Restore Orlando, Holden-Parramore, Downtown Orlando, Florida
An unidentified student and an unidentified volunteer at Restore Orlando's game night in the early-to-mid 1990s. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Mac Wright, Yvonne Ingram, and Other Youths at Restore Orlando
Youth participants, including Mac Wright, at Restore Orlando with volunteer Yvonne Ingram, in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida, in 1992. Wright is pictured on the right with Ingram standing behind him. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph, 1992: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Julie Applebee with a Manager of Restore Orlando
Julie Applebee and Don, whose last name is unknown, in the library at Restore Orlando. Applebee was the daughter of Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee, the founders of Restore Orlando. Created by the Applebees in 1994, the after-school program of Restore Orlando organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Pastor William Andrews with Volunteers at Restore Orlando
Pastor William Andrews with the adopted daughter of Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee, as well as an unidentified volunteer, at Restore Orlando in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Pr. Andrews was the pastor at Restore Orlando, and as of 2016, still lives in the community and is the pastor of Heart of Mercy Community Church. Created by the Applebees in 1994, the after-school program of Restore Orlando organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph, 2001: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Christine McClendon at an Easter Egg Hunt
Christine McClendon holding an Easter basket during an Easter egg hunt at the home of her daughter, Dedra Jenkins, in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida, in 1995. This photograph was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins. Bordered on the east by Division Street and on the west by Orange Blossom Trail (OBT), the Parramore began as an agricultural community. Parramore was historically a segregated African-American community and now comprises three separate downtown neighborhoods: Lake Dot, Callahan, and Holden-Parramore. Once an economically thriving area and the home of many prominent black businesses and institutions, including the Wells’ Built Hotel, South Street Casino, and Wallace’s Beauty Mill, Parramore suffered under Jim Crow segregation, and has lost 65 percent of its population in the last 50 years. It is now one of Orlando’s poorest neighborhoods, with an unemployment rate of 23.8 percent in 2015. However, neighborhood institutions like the Well's Built Museum of African American History and Culture, housed in the historic Wells’ Built Hotel, have worked to preserve memorabilia from Orlando’s African-American community and the local civil rights movement. Current plans to revitalize the Parramore area focus on maintaining its black heritage and culture while building new businesses, schools, and improved housing.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph by Dedra Jenkins, April 1995: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Holden-Parramore, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Applicants for the Holden Heights Front Porch Grant at Grand Avenue Park
Members of the Parramore community applying for the Holden Heights Front Porch Grant at Grand Avenue Park in Downtown Orlando, Florida, in 1999. On the left side of the picnic table, from front to back, the photograph depicts: Allison Hewitt, representing the Front Porch Initiative from the Governor's office in Tallahassee; an unidentified community member; Dedra Jenkins, the donor of this photograph; and another unidentified community member. On the right side of the picnic table, from front to back, the photograph depicts: Nancy Rivera; Kathy King; representing the City of Orlando Neighborhood Services; Debrah McCormick; and Mary Handratty. Standing up on the right side of the photograph, from front to back, the photograph depicts: Sharlene Mitchell, representing Safe Neighborhood Council; an unidentified community member; Randall Grief representing the Orange Blossom Trail Development Board; and another unidentified community member. The grant equipped communities who received this designation with the ability to communicate and navigate the state and local governments. It took community members 30 days to put the grant together, and they eventually received the Holden Heights Front Porch Grant from Governor Jeb Bush (b. 1953).This photograph was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Grand Avenue Park, Holden Heights, Downtown Orlando, Florida
The Cultural Festival at Kaley Square Park in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida, in 1998. The festival featured a "dunk the pastors" booth and was created to represent local cultures. The first photograph shows a group of children at the festival and the second photograph shows the festival entrance. The third photograph shows, Vanessa Rivera, three of the sons of contributor of these photographs, Dedra Jenkins—Gaius Jenkins, Nathaniel Jenkins, and Benjamin Daniel Jenkins—and an unidentified child. The fourth photograph shows Jackie Rivera. This photograph was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photographs, 1998: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Kaley Square Park, Holden-Parramore, Downtown Orlando, Florida
The children of Christine McClendon in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. This photograph was taken outside of the home of McClendon's daughter, Dedra Jenkins. McClendon can be seen in the pink dress on the left. Jenkins' cousins can also be seen in the photograph. Joseph Hill is pictured to the left of McClendon. Verna Hill in the center is in the center holding a photograph, with Paulette Bobo, Jenkins' second cousin, standing in front of her. Felix Gardner is standing on top of a car behind Verna and Debra Hill Gardner is pictured on the far right. Bordered on the east by Division Street and on the west by Orange Blossom Trail (OBT), the Parramore began as an agricultural community. Parramore was historically a segregated African-American community and now comprises three separate downtown neighborhoods: Lake Dot, Callahan, and Holden-Parramore. Once an economically thriving area and the home of many prominent black businesses and institutions, including the Wells’ Built Hotel, South Street Casino, and Wallace’s Beauty Mill, Parramore suffered under Jim Crow segregation, and has lost 65 percent of its population in the last 50 years. It is now one of Orlando’s poorest neighborhoods, with an unemployment rate of 23.8 percent in 2015. However, neighborhood institutions like the Well's Built Museum of African American History and Culture, housed in the historic Wells’ Built Hotel, have worked to preserve memorabilia from Orlando’s African-American community and the local civil rights movement. Current plans to revitalize the Parramore area focus on maintaining its black heritage and culture while building new businesses, schools, and improved housing.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph by Dedra Jenkins, 1985: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Ashley Williams at Restore Orlando's Game Night
Ashley Williams at Restore Orlando's game night. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Children Outside of Dedra Jenkins' House
A group of 13 young children in front of Dedra Jenkins' house in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. From the lower right, moving counter clockwise, the children in the photo are: Demetrius Jenkins, Jr.; the eldest son of Jenkins; Marcus; an unidentified child; Enoch Jenkins, the second son of Jenkins; Kendrick; Benjamin Daniel Jenkins, the fourth son of Jenkins; Jeremiah Jenkins, the third son of Jenkins; and two other unidentified children. After this photograph was taken, the children went to Wet'n'Wild, a waterpark in Orlando.
Original 3 x 3 inch color photograph by Dedra Jenkins: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Cake for the Grand Opening of Bwernai House
The cake served at the grand opening of Bwerani House, a village house operated by Dedra Jenkins and her mother, Christine McClendon, beginning in 2000. The Center for Drug Free Living sponsored the grand opening, and they set up tents, sports, and Uno in the backyard. In Swahili, "Bwerani" means "Come (You Are Welcome)," which is what is written on the cake. The village house provided a place for children ages 10 to 18 to go after school, in hopes that they would not get involved with drugs. Jenkins taught the young men and women about communication, cleaning, cooking, and relationships, much of it based on Biblical principles. She also helped them complete craft projects, such as baking soda volcanoes and making candy apples. Children were also welcomed at the Bwerani House on weekends. In 2009, when the youngest attendees became adults and McClendon became ill, Jenkins discontinued services at Bwerani House.
Original 4 x 6 inch color photograph by Dedra Jenkins, February 2000: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Bwernai House, Holden-Parramore, Downtown Orlando, Florida
The praise team at the after-school program of Restore Orlando, a church that is now known as the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Vanessa Rivera Painting at Restore Orlando
Vanessa Rivera working on art projects at the after-school program of Restore Orlando, a church that is now known as the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center. After the students completed their homework, they were allowed to participate in activities such as art projects and basketball. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Vanessa Rivera and Jackie Rivera at Restore Orlando
Vanessa Rivera, on the left, and Jackie Rivera, on the right, working on art projects at the after-school program of Restore Orlando, a church that is now known as the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center. After the students completed their homework, they were allowed to participate in activities such as art projects and basketball. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph, 1997: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Vanessa Rivera working on homework at the after-school program of Restore Orlando, a church that is now known as the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Christmas Party at Restore Orlando, 1995
Members of the community at Christmas party at Restore Orlando waiting for Santa Clause to arrive. The annual party featured Christmas trees, decorations and a bounce house. Members of the Orlando Magic, K-Mart, and other boosters often donated gifts, such as bicycles and bags of toys. Presents were unwrapped, so parents could be involved in the acquisition and wrapping of the gifts. Santa would arrive in a helicopter, truck bed, or some other vehicle in order to elicit an excited response from the kids. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph, December 1995: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Christmas Party at Restore Orlando, 1998
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph, December 1998: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee Outside of Restore Orlando
Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee, the founders of the after-school program of Restore Orlando, in 1996. Jerry is second from the left and Polly and second from the right. Created in 1994, the program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 5 x 7 inch color photograph, December 1997: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Christmas Party at Restore Orlando, 1996
The Christmas party at Restore Orlando in 1996. The annual party features Christmas trees, decorations and a bounce house. Members of the Orlando Magic, K-Mart, and other boosters often donated gifts, such as bicycles and bags of toys. Presents were unwrapped, so parents could be involved in the acquisition and wrapping of the gifts. The second photograph shows bicycles that were given away as gifts at the party. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photographs, December 1996: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Orlando Rivera speaking to young woman at a Sunday morning church service at Restore Orlando. Rivera spoke about chastity, as well as how women should act and be treated in relationships. He called this the "Virtuous Young Ladies Talk." Rivera was on the Restore Orlando board from 1999 to 2001 and volunteered for many Downtown Orlando community organizations, such as the Holden Heights Neighborhood Association, the Orange Blossom Trail Redevelopment Board, and the Downtown Orlando Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA). He holds a doctorate degree in organizational leadership and is now department head of pastoral ministry at Nyack College in New York City and senior pastor at Mount Vernon Alliance Church in Mount Vernon, New York. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Restore Trojans Recognized for Basketball Championship
Alex Rivera in the sanctuary of Restore Orlando. Rivera was part of the Restore Trojans basketball team, which won a championship in the mid-1990s and was recognized by the local church for its achievement. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Nolan Playing Basketball at Restore Orlando
Nolan, a childhood friend of Jeremiah Jenkins, playing basketball at the Restore Orlando (now the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center) after-school program. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph, 1996: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Jeremiah Jenkins Playing Basketball at Restore Orlando
Jeremiah Jenkins Playing Basketball at the after-school program of Restore Orlando, a church that is now known as the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center. Created by Jerry Applebee and Polly Applebee in 1994, the Restore Orlando's after-school program organized outings such as horseback riding and helicopter rides. The Applebees were affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. Dedra Jenkins fought to have a basketball court built for the older children at Kaley Square Park across the street. Originally, owners of the church and park did not want a court because they feared it would be a place where drug dealers would congregate. This photograph, taken by an unknown volunteer at the program, was originally discarded, along with other similar photographs, and then found by a local resident near the Emmanuel Fellowship and Worship Center, which is located at the former site of Restore Orlando. The collection was given to the contributor, Dedra Jenkins.
Jeremiah Jenkins learning to ride his bike on the BMX bike path at Angebilt Park, just outside of the Church of the Nazarene on Westmoreland Drive and 22nd Street. Know called Kaley Square Park, the park was used to launch hot air balloons for the Citrus Bowl.
Original 3 x 5 inch color photograph by Christine McClendon, 1986: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Angebilt Park, Holden-Parramore, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Linda Andrews, Gloria Hill, Dedra Jenkins, Kenneth Hill
From left to right, Linda Andrews and Gloria Hill in the back row, and Dedra Jenkins and Kenneth Hill in the front row. The four children in this photograph are cousins playing outside in the summertime on the corner of Parramore Avenue and Anderson Street, diagonally from Tip Top and behind the Baptist church, in the Parramore neighborhood of Orlando, Florida. Blue ink writing from the back of the photograph has bled to the front, reading "She fight him, hit fast, and run, but she love him."
Original 3 x 3 inch color photograph by Christine McClendon: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Dedra Jenkins at age 2 on Easter Sunday morning in building 3 of the Carver Court apartments, a former public housing complex in the Parramore neighborhood of Orlando, Florida. Construction on Carver Court began in 1944 on the site of a former landfill. The apartments opened in 1945 housed 212 residential units. Due to structural problems caused by settling ground, the city demolished the complex in 2002 after relocating the 148 families who still lived in the buildings. Previous residents voted to change the name to Carver Park, and a newly-built development on the site opened in 2009 featuring a 3-acre lake and 203 rental units. The Orlando Housing authority delayed plans to allow residents to purchase homes due to the economic downturn.
Original 3 x 3 inch color photograph by Christine McClendon, April 18, 1965: Private Collection of Dedra Jenkins.
Carver Court, Holden-Parramore, Downtown Orlando, Florida
A map of the Ossie Quarters, an area in the Parramore neighborhood of Downtown Orlando, Florida. The map was drawn in 2016 by Althea Hill, based on her memory of historic businesses and homes located in the neighborhood from 1951 through 1970. Ossie Quarters is located just north of Ossie Street, named in honor of Ossie Davis (1917-2005), a stage actor and civil rights activist.
Original 8.5 x 11 inch hand-drawn color map by Althea Hill: Private Collection of Althea Hill.
Ossie Quarters, Holden-Parramore, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Orlando Chief of Police Bob Chewning's Whistle and Badge
The police badge and whistle of Robert Joseph Chewning (b. 1923), the Chief of Police for the Orlando Police Department (OPD) from 1967 to 1973. Chief Chewning was born October 22, 1923, in Baltimore, Maryland. After serving in the Eighth Air Force (8 AF) of the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II, he migrated to Central Florida and began his law enforcement career with OPD in 1946. While Chief Chewning was in office he made great strides in modernizing the agency. This included issuing portable radios for patrol officers and several other progressive programs that were instituted department wide. One of his successful plans was to give financial aid to officers under his charge to pursue higher education and obtain their college degrees. Chief Chewning later served as the Director of Public Safety for Orange County.
Original whistle and badge: Orlando Remembered Exhibit, Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida.
President Jimmy Carter's Address to the Nation on Energy
President Jimmy Carter (b. 1924) giving one of his fireside chats on energy. The message was usually focused on energy conservation. President Carter was elected to office several years after the 1973 Oil Embargo, which devastated the gas turbine market in the United State. Following the end of the embargo in 1974, U.S. government sought to conserve energy and reduce dependence on imported oil. During one of his fireside chats, President Carter introduced to the public the concept of cogeneration, which is a method of producing electricity and heat energy for industrial processes at the same time, usually with the use of gas turbines for power generation and the production of heat for industrial processes. Overall, cogeneration is considered to be a very efficient method of meeting both needs. President Carter was instrumental in the introduction and passage of the energy legislation of the late 1970s that greatly influenced the market for gas turbines, which reinvigorated the market for companies such as Westinghouse Electric. Originally called the Westinghouse Electric Company, George Westinghouse (1846-1914) founded his manufacturing company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on January 8, 1886. In 1889, he renamed his business The Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company. Westinghouse's primary products include turbines, generators, motors and switchgear related to the generation, transmission, and use of electricity. The company changed its name to Westinghouse Electric Corporation in 1945. In 1981, the company began to relocate its division headquarters for the Steam-Turbine Generator Divisions from Pennsylvania (turbines from Lester and generators from Pittsburgh) to Orlando, Florida. The Power Generation Business Unit (PGBU) building was located in The Quadrangle, at 4400 Alafaya Trail. Originally, Westinghouse had purchased a large plot of land for future development that extended westward from Alafaya Trail to Rouse Road. The original headquarters was located on several acres of that land parcel close to Alafaya Trail. As the PGBU grew in size, other buildings were rented and then, after PGBU was sold to Siemens Corporation, additional buildings were added to the complex. In 1994, after a major corporate management shuffling and commitment to change from an industrial manufacturing company to primarily a broadcasting/communications company, Westinghouse bought the CBS Network and changed its name to the CBS Corporation. As the PGBU grew in size, other buildings were rented and then, after PGBU was sold to Siemens Corporation in 1998, additional buildings were added to the Quadrangle.
Digital reproduction of original 4-minute and 25-second color film: Carter, Jimmy. "President Jimmy Carter - Address to the Nation on Energy." YouTube video, April 18, 1977, posted by the Miller Center, March 28, 2008. https://youtu.be/-tPePpMxJaA.