Back to the Future DeLorean DMC-12 at Universal Studios Florida, 1994
Dennis Cepero in front of the Back to the Future DeLorean DMC-12 at Universal Studios Florida, located at 6000 Universal Boulevard in Orlando, Florida, in 1994. Universal Studios Florida, a movie and television-theme amusement park, opened on June 7,1990. Design began in 1982, with plans to include a working studio. However, the project was put on hold until 1986. The park originally featured several themed areas: "In Production" (Front Lot and Production Central), "Now Shooting" (New York), "On Location" (San Francisco and Amity), and "The World of CineMagic Center" (Expo Center). In 1998, Universal began expanding its property to include Islands of Adventure.
Original color photograph, 1994: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Universal Studios Florida, Orlando, Florida
The Jaws ride at Universal Studios Florida, located at 6000 Universal Boulevard in Orlando, Florida, in 1991. Universal Studios Florida, a movie- and television-themed amusement park, opened on June 7,1990. Design began in 1982, with plans to include a working studio. However, the project was put on hold until 1986. The park originally featured several themed areas: "In Production" (Front Lot and Production Central), "Now Shooting" (New York), "On Location" (San Francisco and Amity), and "The World of CineMagic Center" (Expo Center). This ride is based on the film Jaws and opened the same date as the park. Jaws and the Amity area of the park permanently closed on January 2, 2012, in order to make room for Diagon Alley, an area based on the Harry Potter film series.
Original color photograph, 1991: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Jaws, Universal Studios Florida, Orlando, Florida
Back to the Future DeLorean DMC-12 at Universal Studios Florida, 1991
David Cepero (b. 1978) and Alicia Lynn Cepero (b. 1975) in front of the Back to the Future DeLorean DMC-12 at Universal Studios Florida, located at 6000 Universal Boulevard in Orlando, Florida, in 1991. Also seen in the photograph is the entrance of the Phantom of the Opera Horror Make-Up Show. Universal Studios Florida, a movie- and television-themed amusement park, opened on June 7,1990. Design began in 1982, with plans to include a working studio. However, the project was put on hold until 1986. The park originally featured several themed areas: "In Production" (Front Lot and Production Central), "Now Shooting" (New York), "On Location" (San Francisco and Amity), and "The World of CineMagic Center" (Expo Center). In 1998, Universal began expanding its property to include Islands of Adventure.
Sea lions at SeaWorld Orlando, located at 7007 Sea World Drive in Orlando, Florida, in 1974. SeaWorld Orlando was first established by Milton C. Sheed, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Malay in San Diego, California, in 1964. SeaWorld Orlando opened its third location on December 15, 1973, shortly after the opening of Walt Disney World. In 1976, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. (HBJ), which also owned Cypress Gardens and Boardwalk and Baseball, purchased the company. However, fearing bankruptcy in the late 1980s, HBJ eventually sold all six parks to the Anheuser-Busch Company in 1989. SeaWorld Orlando also has locations in Ohio and Illinois.
Original color photograph, 1974: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Killer whale at SeaWorld Orlando, located at 7007 Sea World Drive in Orlando, Florida, in 1974. SeaWorld Orlando was first established by Milton C. Sheed, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Malay in San Diego, California, in 1964. SeaWorld Orlando opened its third location on December 15, 1973, shortly after the opening of Walt Disney World. In 1976, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. (HBJ), which also owned Cypress Gardens and Boardwalk and Baseball, purchased the company. However, fearing bankruptcy in the late 1980s, HBJ eventually sold all six parks to the Anheuser-Busch Company in 1989. SeaWorld Orlando also has locations in Ohio and Illinois.
Original color photographs, 1974: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Dolphins at SeaWorld Orlando, located at 7007 Sea World Drive in Orlando, Florida, in 1974. SeaWorld Orlando was first established by Milton C. Sheed, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Malay in San Diego, California, in 1964. SeaWorld Orlando opened its third location on December 15, 1973, shortly after the opening of Walt Disney World. In 1976, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. (HBJ), which also owned Cypress Gardens and Boardwalk and Baseball, purchased the company. However, fearing bankruptcy in the late 1980s, HBJ eventually sold all six parks to the Anheuser-Busch Company in 1989. SeaWorld Orlando also has locations in Ohio and Illinois.
Water Ski Show at SeaWorld Orlando, 2001
Water ski show with Santa Clause at SeaWorld Orlando, located at 7007 Sea World Drive in Orlando, Florida, in 2001. SeaWorld Orlando was first established by Milton C. Sheed, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Malay in San Diego, California, in 1964. SeaWorld Orlando opened its third location on December 15, 1973, shortly after the opening of Walt Disney World. In 1976, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. (HBJ), which also owned Cypress Gardens and Boardwalk and Baseball, purchased the company. However, fearing bankruptcy in the late 1980s, HBJ eventually sold all six parks to the Anheuser-Busch Company in 1989. SeaWorld Orlando also has locations in Ohio and Illinois.
Original color photograph, 2001: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Dolphins at SeaWorld Orlando, located at 7007 Sea World Drive in Orlando, Florida, in 1998. SeaWorld Orlando was first established by Milton C. Sheed, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Malay in San Diego, California, in 1964. SeaWorld Orlando opened its third location on December 15, 1973, shortly after the opening of Walt Disney World. In 1976, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. (HBJ), which also owned Cypress Gardens and Boardwalk and Baseball, purchased the company. However, fearing bankruptcy in the late 1980s, HBJ eventually sold all six parks to the Anheuser-Busch Company in 1989. SeaWorld Orlando also has locations in Ohio and Illinois.
Original color photographs, 1998: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Shamu: World Focus Show at SeaWorld Orlando, 1998
The Shamu: World Focus killer whale show at SeaWorld Orlando, located at 7007 Sea World Drive in Orlando, Florida, in 1998. SeaWorld Orlando was first established by Milton C. Sheed, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Malay in San Diego, California, in 1964. SeaWorld Orlando opened its third location on December 15, 1973, shortly after the opening of Walt Disney World. In 1976, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. (HBJ), which also owned Cypress Gardens and Boardwalk and Baseball, purchased the company. However, fearing bankruptcy in the late 1980s, HBJ eventually sold all six parks to the Anheuser-Busch Company in 1989. SeaWorld Orlando also has locations in Ohio and Illinois.
Discovery Cove, located at 6000 Discovery Cove Way in Orlando, Florida, in 1990. Discovery Cove is owned and operated by SeaWorld Orlando Parks & Entertainment. SeaWorld Orlando was first established by Milton C. Sheed, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Malay in San Diego, California, in 1964. SeaWorld Orlando opened its third location on December 15, 1973, shortly after the opening of Walt Disney World. In 1976, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. (HBJ), which also owned Cypress Gardens and Boardwalk and Baseball, purchased the company. However, fearing bankruptcy in the late 1980s, HBJ eventually sold all six parks to the Anheuser-Busch Company in 1989. SeaWorld Orlando also has locations in Ohio and Illinois.
Original color photograph, 1990: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Sea Lions Tonite Animal Show at SeaWorld Orlando, 1990
The Sea Lions Tonight Animal Show at SeaWorld Orlando, located at 7007 Sea World Drive in Orlando, Florida, in 1990. SeaWorld Orlando was first established by Milton C. Sheed, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Malay in San Diego, California, in 1964. SeaWorld Orlando opened its third location on December 15, 1973, shortly after the opening of Walt Disney World. In 1976, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. (HBJ), which also owned Cypress Gardens and Boardwalk and Baseball, purchased the company. However, fearing bankruptcy in the late 1980s, HBJ eventually sold all six parks to the Anheuser-Busch Company in 1989. SeaWorld Orlando also has locations in Ohio and Illinois.
Baby Shamu Celebration Show at SeaWorld Orlando, 1990
The Baby Shamu Celebration killer whale show at SeaWorld Orlando, located at 7007 Sea World Drive in Orlando, Florida, in 1990. SeaWorld Orlando was first established by Milton C. Sheed, Ken Norris, David Demott, and George Malay in San Diego, California, in 1964. SeaWorld Orlando opened its third location on December 15, 1973, shortly after the opening of Walt Disney World. In 1976, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. (HBJ), which also owned Cypress Gardens and Boardwalk and Baseball, purchased the company. However, fearing bankruptcy in the late 1980s, HBJ eventually sold all six parks to the Anheuser-Busch Company in 1989. SeaWorld Orlando also has locations in Ohio and Illinois.
The Orange Blossom Special, the last train at the Church Street Railroad Station, located at 76 West Church Street in Downtown Orlando, Florida, in 1989. The original site was occupied by a railroad depot built around 1883. That building was demolished around 1890 and the current Church Street Station Depot was constructed by the South Florida Railroad on the same lot. The site also served the Tavares, Orlando and Atlantic Railroad and the Orlando and Winter Park Railway. In 1926, the Orlando Health/Amtrak station took over passenger operations, but Church Street Station continued to serve as a ticket outlet and freight station until 1972. The last train, called the Orange Blossom Special, remained at the station until January of 2012. The 100-year-old engine was transported to the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish in order to make room for the new SunRail platform. Church Street Station is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
Original color photograph, 1989: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Church Street Station, Downtown Orlando, Florida
St. Stephen's Catholic Church, located at 575 Tuskawilla Road in Winter Springs, Florida, in 2005. On December 5, 1984, Bishop Thomas Joseph Grady (1914-2002) approved the establishment of a Catholic community to serve eastern Seminole County. Father John J. Bluett was assigned as the Founding Pastor of the church on February 5, 1984. While the church building was being constructed, the community celebrated its First Eucharistic liturgy with 800 congregants at Lake Howell High School on June 16, 1985. On February 22, 1986, Bishop Grady broke ground for the site and the church celebrated its first Eucharistic Celebration on April 16, 1987. In January of 2001, Father George Dunne began his ministry at the church, alongside Father Bluett.
Original color photographs by Laura Lynn Cepero, December 1, 2005: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
St. Stephens Catholic Church, Winter Springs, Florida
Christmas at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, 1989
Christmas ceremonies at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, located at 575 Tuskawilla Road in Winter Springs, Florida, in 1989. On December 5, 1984, Bishop Thomas Joseph Grady (1914-2002) approved the establishment of a Catholic community to serve eastern Seminole County. Father John J. Bluett was assigned as the Founding Pastor of the church on February 5, 1984. While the church building was being constructed, the community celebrated its First Eucharistic liturgy with 800 congregants at Lake Howell High School on June 16, 1985. On February 22, 1986, Bishop Grady broke ground for the site and the church celebrated its first Eucharistic Celebration on April 16, 1987. In January of 2001, Father George Dunne began his ministry at the church, alongside Father Bluett.
Original color photographs, December 1989: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
The 10th Annual Unity Heritage Festival, held at Shady Park, on the corner of South Pennsylvania Avenue and West New England Avenue, in Hannibal Square in Winter Park, Florida, in 2012. The festival is held annual on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, as well as the day before. The festival was hosted by the City of Winter Park in order to "promote family history and raise funds for the Educational Fulfillment Fund for local economically disadvantaged youth," according to the city website. These images show various performers dancing and singing to a variety of songs by Motown artists, such as the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, the Temptations, and the Four Tops.
Original color photographs by Laura Lynn Cepero, January 16, 2012: Private Collection of Laura Lynn Cepero.
Shady Park, Hannibal Square, Winter Park, Florida
Nancy Lynn Cepero (b. 1954) and two of her children, Dennis Cepero (b. 1986) and Laura Lynn Cepero (b. 1987), at a gazebo at Cypress Gardens in June of 1989. Billed as Florida's first commercial tourist theme park, Cypress Gardens opened on January 2, 1936, as a botanical garden planted by Dick Pope, Sr. (1900-1988) and his wife, Julie Pope. Over the years, it became one of the biggest attractions in Florida, known for its water ski shows, lush gardens, and Southern Belles. It also became known as the "Water Ski Capital of the World," because many of the sport's landmark firsts and the over 50 world records broken there. Numerous motion pictures were filmed at the Cypress Gardens, including portions of This is Cinerama, the first feature filmed in the wide-screen format, as well as a string of Esther Williams films and television specials in the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1950s, young women dressed in the crinolines reminiscent of the Antebellum South. During the American Civil War Centennial, young men dressed in Confederate uniforms would be photographed with the Southern Belles. With the addition of a custom photography boat named Miss Cover Girl in the early 1960s, the park became a popular site for the filming of television commercials. However, Cypress Gardens closed in 2009 and Legoland occupies the former lot at 1 Legoland Way in Winter Haven, Florida.
Original color photographs, June 1989: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Exotic Bird Show at Cypress Gardens, 1989
The exotic bird show at Cypress Gardens in June of 1989. Billed as Florida's first commercial tourist theme park, Cypress Gardens opened on January 2, 1936, as a botanical garden planted by Dick Pope, Sr. (1900-1988) and his wife, Julie Pope. Over the years, it became one of the biggest attractions in Florida, known for its water ski shows, lush gardens, and Southern Belles. It also became known as the "Water Ski Capital of the World," because many of the sport's landmark firsts and the over 50 world records broken there. Numerous motion pictures were filmed at the Cypress Gardens, including portions of This is Cinerama, the first feature filmed in the wide-screen format, as well as a string of Esther Williams films and television specials in the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1950s, young women dressed in the crinolines reminiscent of the Antebellum South. During the American Civil War Centennial, young men dressed in Confederate uniforms would be photographed with the Southern Belles. With the addition of a custom photography boat named Miss Cover Girl in the early 1960s, the park became a popular site for the filming of television commercials. However, Cypress Gardens closed in 2009 and Legoland occupies the former lot at 1 Legoland Way in Winter Haven, Florida.
Original color photograph, June 1989: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
An alligator at Cypress Gardens in June of 1989. Billed as Florida's first commercial tourist theme park, Cypress Gardens opened on January 2, 1936, as a botanical garden planted by Dick Pope, Sr. (1900-1988) and his wife, Julie Pope. Over the years, it became one of the biggest attractions in Florida, known for its water ski shows, lush gardens, and Southern Belles. It also became known as the "Water Ski Capital of the World," because many of the sport's landmark firsts and the over 50 world records broken there. Numerous motion pictures were filmed at the Cypress Gardens, including portions of This is Cinerama, the first feature filmed in the wide-screen format, as well as a string of Esther Williams films and television specials in the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1950s, young women dressed in the crinolines reminiscent of the Antebellum South. During the American Civil War Centennial, young men dressed in Confederate uniforms would be photographed with the Southern Belles. With the addition of a custom photography boat named Miss Cover Girl in the early 1960s, the park became a popular site for the filming of television commercials. However, Cypress Gardens closed in 2009 and Legoland occupies the former lot at 1 Legoland Way in Winter Haven, Florida.
The water ski show at Cypress Gardens in June of 1989. Billed as Florida's first commercial tourist theme park, Cypress Gardens opened on January 2, 1936, as a botanical garden planted by Dick Pope, Sr. (1900-1988) and his wife, Julie Pope. Over the years, it became one of the biggest attractions in Florida, known for its water ski shows, lush gardens, and Southern Belles. It also became known as the "Water Ski Capital of the World," because many of the sport's landmark firsts and the over 50 world records broken there. Numerous motion pictures were filmed at the Cypress Gardens, including portions of This is Cinerama, the first feature filmed in the wide-screen format, as well as a string of Esther Williams films and television specials in the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1950s, young women dressed in the crinolines reminiscent of the Antebellum South. During the American Civil War Centennial, young men dressed in Confederate uniforms would be photographed with the Southern Belles. With the addition of a custom photography boat named Miss Cover Girl in the early 1960s, the park became a popular site for the filming of television commercials. However, Cypress Gardens closed in 2009 and Legoland occupies the former lot at 1 Legoland Way in Winter Haven, Florida.
SheiKra, a roller coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa, a theme park located in Tampa, Florida, in 2010. SheiKra is a roller coaster that was added to the Stanleyville area of the park. Mark Rose, vice-president of design and engineering, proposed the idea for the roller coaster. Peckham Guyton Albers & Viets, Inc. (PGAV) planned and designed the coaster, which opened on May 21, 2005. Less than two years later, Busch Gardens announced that it would remove the floors of SheiKra's trains. The ride shut down temporarily on May 28, 2007, and reopened on June 16, 2007. Busch Gardens opened as a hospitality facility for Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. on March 31, 1959. Busch Gardens originally hosted a brewery with beer tastings, but it was closed in 1995 and the roller coaster Gwazi was constructed in its place. In 1965, Serengeti Plains, inhabited by African wildlife, opened. In 1971, the Serengeti Express Railway, a two-mile railroad surrounding the park, was opened. The Stanleyville section opened, including the Stanley Falls Flume in 1973. In 1976, the Congo area opened, featuring Busch Gardens' first roller coaster, Python. Various theme areas and attractions have been added to the park over the years. From 1976 through the 1990s, the theme park was called Busch Gardens: The Dark Continent, but was renamed Busch Gardens Tampa Bay during that same decade. From 2006 to 2008, the park was renamed Busch Gardens Africa. In 2008, it returned to its original name. The park is currently owned by SeaWorld Entertainment and the Blackstone Groups. Busch Gardens includes several themed areas in addition to the Edge of Africa: Morocco, Stanleyville, Congo, Jungala, Pantopia, Nairobi, Crown Colony Plaza, and Egypt.
Original color digital image by Ray Cepero, March 10, 2010: Private Collection of Ray Cepero.
SheiKra, Stanleyville, Busch Gardens Tampa, Tampa, Florida
Nairobi Train Station of the Serengeti Express Railway at Busch Gardens Tampa, 2010
The Nairobi Train Station of the Serengeti Express Railway of Busch Gardens Tampa, a theme park located in Tampa, Florida, in 2010. The park opened as a hospitality facility for Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. on March 31, 1959. Busch Gardens originally hosted a brewery with beer tastings, but it was closed in 1995 and the roller coaster Gwazi was constructed in its place. In 1965, Serengeti Plains, inhabited by African wildlife, opened. In 1971, the Serengeti Express Railway, a two-mile railroad surrounding the park, was opened. The Stanleyville section opened, including the Stanley Falls Flume in 1973. In 1976, the Congo area opened, featuring Busch Gardens' first roller coaster, Python. Various theme areas and attractions have been added to the park over the years. The Edge of Africa was opened in 1997. From 1976 through the 1990s, the theme park was called Busch Gardens: The Dark Continent, but was renamed Busch Gardens Tampa Bay during that same decade. From 2006 to 2008, the park was renamed Busch Gardens Africa. In 2008, it returned to its original name. The park is currently owned by SeaWorld Entertainment and the Blackstone Groups. Busch Gardens includes several themed areas in addition to the Edge of Africa: Morocco, Stanleyville, Congo, Jungala, Pantopia, Nairobi, Crown Colony Plaza, and Egypt.
Original color digital images by Ray Cepero, March 10, 2010: Private Collection of Ray Cepero.
Nairobi Train Station, Nairobi, Busch Gardens Tampa, Tampa, Florida
Elephants at the Edge of Africa at Busch Gardens Tampa, 2010
Elephants at the Edge of Africa of Busch Gardens Tampa, a theme park located in Tampa, Florida, in 2010. The park opened as a hospitality facility for Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. on March 31, 1959. Busch Gardens originally hosted a brewery with beer tastings, but it was closed in 1995 and the roller coaster Gwazi was constructed in its place. In 1965, Serengeti Plains, inhabited by African wildlife, opened. In 1971, the Serengeti Express Railway, a two-mile railroad surrounding the park, was opened. The Stanleyville section opened, including the Stanley Falls Flume in 1973. In 1976, the Congo area opened, featuring Busch Gardens' first roller coaster, Python. Various theme areas and attractions have been added to the park over the years. The Edge of Africa was opened in 1997. From 1976 through the 1990s, the theme park was called Busch Gardens: The Dark Continent, but was renamed Busch Gardens Tampa Bay during that same decade. From 2006 to 2008, the park was renamed Busch Gardens Africa. In 2008, it returned to its original name. The park is currently owned by SeaWorld Entertainment and the Blackstone Groups. Busch Gardens includes several themed areas in addition to the Edge of Africa: Morocco, Stanleyville, Congo, Jungala, Pantopia, Nairobi, Crown Colony Plaza, and Egypt.
Edge of Africa, Busch Gardens Tampa, Tampa, Florida
Zebras at the Edge of Africa at Busch Gardens Tampa, 2010
Zebras at the Edge of Africa of Busch Gardens Tampa, a theme park located in Tampa, Florida, in 2010. The park opened as a hospitality facility for Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. on March 31, 1959. Busch Gardens originally hosted a brewery with beer tastings, but it was closed in 1995 and the roller coaster Gwazi was constructed in its place. In 1965, Serengeti Plains, inhabited by African wildlife, opened. In 1971, the Serengeti Express Railway, a two-mile railroad surrounding the park, was opened. The Stanleyville section opened, including the Stanley Falls Flume in 1973. In 1976, the Congo area opened, featuring Busch Gardens' first roller coaster, Python. Various theme areas and attractions have been added to the park over the years. The Edge of Africa was opened in 1997. From 1976 through the 1990s, the theme park was called Busch Gardens: The Dark Continent, but was renamed Busch Gardens Tampa Bay during that same decade. From 2006 to 2008, the park was renamed Busch Gardens Africa. In 2008, it returned to its original name. The park is currently owned by SeaWorld Entertainment and the Blackstone Groups. Busch Gardens includes several themed areas in addition to the Edge of Africa: Morocco, Stanleyville, Congo, Jungala, Pantopia, Nairobi, Crown Colony Plaza, and Egypt.
Bird Gardens at Busch Gardens Tampa, 2010
The Bird Gardens of Busch Gardens Tampa, a theme park located in Tampa, Florida, in 2010. Garden Gate Cafcan bee seen to the left of the photograph, and Gwazi, a roller coaster that opened in 1999, can be seen in the distance. Busch Gardens opened as a hospitality facility for Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. on March 31, 1959. The park originally hosted a brewery with beer tastings, but it was closed in 1995 and the roller coaster Gwazi was constructed in its place. In 1965, Serengeti Plains, inhabited by African wildlife, opened. In 1971, the Serengeti Express Railway, a two-mile railroad surrounding the park, was opened. The Stanleyville section opened, including the Stanley Falls Flume in 1973. In 1976, the Congo area opened, featuring Busch Gardens' first roller coaster, Python. Various theme areas and attractions have been added to the park over the years. From 1976 through the 1990s, the theme park was called Busch Gardens: The Dark Continent, but was renamed Busch Gardens Tampa Bay during that same decade. From 2006 to 2008, the park was renamed Busch Gardens Africa. In 2008, it returned to its original name. The park is currently owned by SeaWorld Entertainment and the Blackstone Groups. Busch Gardens includes several themed areas in addition to the Edge of Africa: Morocco, Stanleyville, Congo, Jungala, Pantopia, Nairobi, Crown Colony Plaza, and Egypt.
Bird Gardens, Busch Gardens Tampa, Tampa, Florida
Garden Gate Café, Busch Gardens Tampa, Tampa, Florida
Gwazi, Morocco, Busch Gardens Tampa, Tampa, Florida
Flamingos at Busch Gardens Tampa's Bird Gardens, 2010
Flamingos at the Bird Gardens of Busch Gardens Tampa, a theme park located in Tampa, Florida, in 2010. The park opened as a hospitality facility for Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. on March 31, 1959. Busch Gardens originally hosted a brewery with beer tastings, but it was closed in 1995 and the roller coaster Gwazi was constructed in its place. In 1965, Serengeti Plains, inhabited by African wildlife, opened. In 1971, the Serengeti Express Railway, a two-mile railroad surrounding the park, was opened. The Stanleyville section opened, including the Stanley Falls Flume in 1973. In 1976, the Congo area opened, featuring Busch Gardens' first roller coaster, Python. Various theme areas and attractions have been added to the park over the years. From 1976 through the 1990s, the theme park was called Busch Gardens: The Dark Continent, but was renamed Busch Gardens Tampa Bay during that same decade. From 2006 to 2008, the park was renamed Busch Gardens Africa. In 2008, it returned to its original name. The park is currently owned by SeaWorld Entertainment and the Blackstone Groups. Busch Gardens includes several themed areas in addition to the Edge of Africa: Morocco, Stanleyville, Congo, Jungala, Pantopia, Nairobi, Crown Colony Plaza, and Egypt.
Original color digital images by Ray Cepero, February 13, 2010: Private Collection of Ray Cepero.
The Juniper Springs Recreation Area, located at 26701 Florida State Road 40 in the Ocala National Forest in Silver Springs, Florida, in 1997. In the first photograph, Dennis Cepero (b. 1986) can be seen on the far right. In the second photograph, the siblings swimming in the center of the springs are, from left to right, Alicia Lynn Cepero (b. 1975), Dennis Cepero, and Laura Lynn Cepero (b. 1987). In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed the complex with picnic areas, a campground, and various trails.
Original color photograph, 1997: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Juniper Springs Recreation Area, Silver Springs, Florida
An alligator at the Silver Springs State Park, formerly located at 1425 Northeast 58th Avenue in Silver Springs, Florida, in 1999. Silver Springs was originally settled by the Timucuans in the early 1500s. Although they were able to reclaim their territory after Spanish invasion, the Timucuans were ultimately succeeded by other tribes, such as the Seminoles. In the 1850s, Silver Springs began to attract tourists for steamboat rides. The park's popularity skyrocketed when the glass-bottom boat was invented in 1878.
Original color photographs, 1999: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Silver Springs State Park, Silver Springs, Florida
Ray (née Raúl) Cepero (b. 1947) and his wife, Nancy Lynn Cepero (b. 1954), at the Silver Springs State Park, formerly located at 1425 Northeast 58th Avenue in Silver Springs, Florida, in 1999. Silver Springs was originally settled by the Timucuans in the early 1500s. Although they were able to reclaim their territory after Spanish invasion, the Timucuans were ultimately succeeded by other tribes, such as the Seminoles. In the 1850s, Silver Springs began to attract tourists for steamboat rides. The park's popularity skyrocketed when the glass-bottom boat was invented in 1878.
Original color photograph, 1999: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Members of the Cepero family at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park in 1991. Photographed from left to right are Dennis Cepero (b. 1986), Ray (née Raúl) Cepero (b. 1947), David Cepero (b. 1978), Laura Lynn Cepero (b. 1987), and Alicia Lynn Cepero (b. 1975). Weeki Wachee, located at 6131 Commercial Way in Spring Hill, Florida, is best known for its famous tourist attraction, Weeki Wachee Springs. Weeki Wachee Springs features performances by underwater mermaids, a glass-bottom boat ride, and other natural attractions. The springs are named after the Seminole words for "little spring" or "winding river." In 1946, former U.S. Navy member Newt Perry (1908-1987) began to develop a tourist attraction at Weeki Wachee. By the 1950s, Weeki Wachee was one of the top tourist stops in the United States. The American Broadcasting Company (ABC) purchased the site in 1959 and continued to expand. In 2008, Weeki Wachee was taken over by the state of Florida as a state park.
Original color photograph by Nancy Lynn Cepero, 1991: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida
Mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, 1974
Mermaids at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park in 1974. Weeki Wachee, located at 6131 Commercial Way in Spring Hill, Florida, is best known for its famous tourist attraction, Weeki Wachee Springs. Weeki Wachee Springs features performances by underwater mermaids, a glass-bottom boat ride, and other natural attractions. The springs are named after the Seminole words for "little spring" or "winding river." In 1946, former U.S. Navy member Newt Perry (1908-1987) began to develop a tourist attraction at Weeki Wachee. By the 1950s, Weeki Wachee was one of the top tourist stops in the United States. The American Broadcasting Company (ABC) purchased the site in 1959 and continued to expand. In 2008, Weeki Wachee was taken over by the state of Florida as a state park.
Lake Howell High School Senior Powderpuff Cheerleading Squad, 2005
Lake Howell High School senior Powderpuff cheerleading squad in 2005. Lake Howell High School is a public high school located at 4200 Dike Road in Winter Park, Florida. Although its mailing address is Winter Park, which is part of Orange County, the school is geographically located in Seminole County and serves students in Winter Springs and Oviedo. The school was established in 1975 and has over 2,000 students. The term "powderpuff" is used describe the participation of females in traditionally male sports, such as football, and the participation of males in traditionally female sports, such as cheerleading. Powderpuff football games are a tradition for many American high schools and universities. The first powderpuff football game was held on October 20, 1945, at Eastern State Teachers College in Madison, South Dakota. The idea for a female football team arose out of the lack of male football players due to the military draft during World War II. Powderpuff became popularized in 1972 when two high schools in Connecticut, Mark T. Sheehan High School and Lyman Hall High School, held a game between their female students.
Original color photograph, 2005: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Lake Howell High School, Winter Springs, Florida
Lake Howell High School Senior Powderpuff Team, 2005
Lake Howell High School senior Powderpuff flag football team in 2005. Lake Howell High School is a public high school located at 4200 Dike Road in Winter Park, Florida. Although its mailing address is Winter Park, which is part of Orange County, the school is geographically located in Seminole County and serves students in Winter Springs and Oviedo. The school was established in 1975 and has over 2,000 students. The term "powderpuff" is used describe the participation of females in traditionally male sports, such as football, and the participation of males in traditionally female sports, such as cheerleading. Powderpuff football games are a tradition for many American high schools and universities. The first powderpuff football game was held on October 20, 1945, at Eastern State Teachers College in Madison, South Dakota. The idea for a female football team arose out of the lack of male football players due to the military draft during World War II. Powderpuff became popularized in 1972 when two high schools in Connecticut, Mark T. Sheehan High School and Lyman Hall High School, held a game between their female students.
Original color photographs, 2005: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Lake Howell High School Marching Band with Tuskawilla Middle School Band, 1998
The Lake Howell High School marching band performing with the Tuskawilla Middle School band at a football game in 1998. Lake Howell High School is a public high school located at 4200 Dike Road in Winter Park, Florida. Although Lake Howell's mailing address is Winter Park, which is part of Orange County, the school is geographically located in Seminole County and serves students in Winter Springs and Oviedo. The school was established in 1975 and has over 2,000 students. Tuskawilla is located at 1801 Tuskawilla Road in Oviedo, Florida. The majority of Tuskawilla students go on to attend Lake Howell.
Original color photograph, 1998: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Tuskawilla Middle School, Oviedo, Florida
Graduation at Lake Howell High School, 1995
A graduation ceremony at Lake Howell High School, a public high school located at 4200 Dike Road in Winter Park, Florida. Although its mailing address is Winter Park, which is part of Orange County, the school is geographically located in Seminole County and serves students in Winter Springs and Oviedo. The school was established in 1975 and has over 2,000 students.
Original color photograph, 1995: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
The Oviedo Marketplace, located at 1700 Oviedo Marketplace Boulevard (present-day Oviedo Mall B oulevard) in Oviedo, Florida, in 2005. The first photograph shows Pizzeria Regina and Cajun Grill. The second photograph features Master Wok, Meditterranean Gourmet, and Subway. The third shows Gringo's, Sarku Japan, Chick-Fil-A, and Cajun Grill. Ben & Jerry's and Barnie's Coffee and Tea Company are featured in the fourth photograph. The fifth photograph again features Cajun Grill, Chick-Fil-A, Sarku Japan, and Gringo's. The sixth photograph shows Regal Cinemas and the last photograph features three retail stands in front of FYE. The Oviedo Marketplace opened in 1998 with General Growth Properties as its owner. The mall struggled financially following the economic recession in 2008, and in 2010, CW Capital purchased the mall. The mall's new manager, Urban Retail Properties, changed the name to the Oviedo Mall, installed a new play area for children, and began hosting various community events. In March of 2013, the Oviedo Mall was sold to 3D Investments.
Original color photographs by Laura Lynn Cepero, 2005: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
The aftermath of Hurricane Charley in Oviedo, Florida. Hurricane Charley formed on August 9, 2004, and dissipated on August 15. Charley was a Category 4 hurricane that made landfall in southwest Florida and was the strongest hurricane to hit the United States since Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Although Hurricane Charley weakened to 85 mph winds while passing over the Central Florida region, it still caused considerable damage, as seen in these photographs. Overall, the hurricane resulted in 8 direct fatalities in Florida and cost the state over $13 billion in damage.
Original color photographs by Ray Cepero, August 2004: Private Collection of Ray Cepero.
The Black Hammock Trailhead around 2002. The Black Hammock Wilderness Area is a 700-acre property jointly owned by Seminole County and the St. Johns River Water Management District. The area is part of an effort to preserve the habitat along the shores of Lake Jesup in Seminole County, Florida. The trailhead is part of the Cross Seminole Trail, which was created from the former railroad line of the Sanford & Indian River Railroad, running between Sanford and Oviedo. In the early 1900s, a spur was added to the line, running north and east in order to allow farmers of Black Hammock a way to ship their produce to Sanford and Winter Park. The spur was later abandoned due to the advent of automobiles and the decline of the agricultural industry in Black Hammock. The tracks remained until they were purchased by the State of Florida for the Cross Seminole Trail.
Original color photograph: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Black Hammock Trailhead, Lake County, Florida
Bill Clinton Speaking at the University of Central Florida, 2012
Former President Bill Clinton (b. 1946) speaking at a political rally at the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando, Florida, on October 29, 2012. The rally was hosted by the UCF College Democrats and held on behalf of President Barack Obama (b. 1961), who was campaigning for his re-election bid in the Presidential Election of 2012. President Obama was originally scheduled to speak at the rally, but had to cancel due to emergency relief needs for Hurricane Sandy in the northeast. Former Florida Governor Charlie Crist (b. 1956) and Democratic Senator Bill Nelson (b. 1942) also spoke at the rally and can be seen on stage in several of these photographs. President Obama went on to win re-election, defeating his Republican opponent, former Governor of Massachusetts Mitt Romney (b. 1947). President Clinton served as the 42nd President of the United States from 1993 to 2001. He is married to Hillary Clinton (b. 1847), who served as New York Senator from 2001 to 2009 and as U.S. Secretary of State from 2009 to 2013. Before his presidency, President Clinton served as the 50th Attorney General of Arkansas from 1977 to 1979 and as the 40th and 42nd Governor of Arkansas from 1979 to 1981 and from 1983 to 1992, respectively. As president, he presided over the longest period of peacetime economic expansion in American history. His presidency is also known for passing welfare reform, his sex scandal with White House intern Monica Lewinsky (b. 1973), his impeachment for perjury and obstruction of justice in regard to the Lewinsky affair, and his achievement of a budget surplus during the last three years of his administration. Following his presidency, he founded the William J. Clinton Foundation to address various international humanitarian causes.
Original color digital images by Laura Lynn Cepero, October 29, 2012: Private Collection of Laura Lynn Cepero.
Memory Mall, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
Bill Nelson Speaking at the University of Central Florida, 2012
Bill Nelson (b. 1942) speaking at a political rally at the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando, Florida, on October 29, 2012. The rally was hosted by the UCF College Democrats and held on behalf of President Barack Obama (b. 1961), who was campaigning for his re-election bid in the Presidential Election of 2012. President Obama was originally scheduled to speak at the rally, but had to cancel due to emergency relief needs for Hurricane Sandy in the northeast. Former President Bill Clinton (b. 1946) and former Florida Governor Charlie Crist (b. 1956) also spoke at the rally. President Obama went on to win re-election, defeating his Republican opponent, former Governor of Massachusetts Mitt Romney (b. 1947). At the time that this photograph was taken, Senator Nelson was a Democratic Senator in the U.S. Senate, representing the State of Florida since 2001. Nelson originally began his political career in the Florida House of Representatives, serving from 1973 to 1979. From 1979 to 1991, he served in the U.S. House of Representatives. In January of 1986, Nelson flew on the Space Shuttle Columbia, becoming the second sitting member of the U.S. Congress to fly in space. In 1990, he retired from Congress to run for Governor of Florida, but was defeated by Lawton Chiles (1930-1998). He then served as the Florida State Treasurer, Insurance Commissioner, and Fire Marshal from 1995 to 2001, when he was elected to the U.S. Senate.
Charlie Crist at the University of Central Florida, 2012
Former Governor Charlie Crist (b. 1956) speaking at a political rally at the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando, Florida, on October 29, 2012. The rally was hosted by the UCF College Democrats and held on behalf of President Barack Obama (b. 1961), who was campaigning for his re-election bid in the Presidential Election of 2012. President Obama was originally scheduled to speak at the rally, but had to cancel due to emergency relief needs for Hurricane Sandy in the northeast. Former President Bill Clinton (b. 1946) and Democratic Senator Bill Nelson (b. 1942) also spoke at the rally. President Obama went on to win re-election, defeating his Republican opponent, former Governor of Massachusetts Mitt Romney (b. 1947). Governor Crist is best known as the 44th Governor of Florida from 2007 to 2011. After a career as an attorney, Crist entered politics as a Republican and served in the Florida Senate from 1993 to 1998. He also served as the Florida Education Commissioner from 2001 to 2003 and as the Florida Attorney General from 2003 to 2007. Following his governorship, Crist ran for the U.S. Senate. After being defeated by Marco Rubio (b. 1971) in the race for the Republican nomination, Crist left the Republican Party and ran as an independent, ultimately losing to Rubio. During the Presidential Election of 2012, Crist endorsed and campaigned for President Obama. On December 7, 2012, he officially joined the Democratic Party. He ran for Governor of Florida again in 2014, but was defeated by incumbent Republican Governor Rick Scott (b. 1952).
Rosie O'Grady's Good Time Emporium, 1992
Rosie O'Grady's Good Time Emporium in 1992. The siblings pictured in the photograph are, from left to right: David Cepero (b. 1978), Dennis Cepero (b. 1986), Laura Lynn Cepero (b. 1987), and Alicia Lynn Cepero (b. 1975). Gertrude Welsh, the great-aunt of the children, is standing in the back. Rosie O'Grady's was a restaurant that was once part of the Church Street Station entertainment complex in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The original site was occupied by a railroad depot built around 1883 for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (ACL). The depot was designed by T. B. Cotter in the Queen Anne/Eclectic Victorian style and constructed by Henry B. Plant (1819-1899). The building was demolished around 1890 and the current Church Street Station Depot was constructed by the South Florida Railroad on the same lot. The site also served the Tavares, Orlando and Atlantic Railroad, and the Orlando and Winter Park Railway. In 1926, the Orlando Health/Amtrak station took over passenger operations, but Church Street Station continued to serve as a ticket outlet and freight station until 1972. In 1973, a Dixieland-theme entertainment complex was established between the railroad tracks and Garland Avenue in seven vacant buildings for $22 million. The depot itself houses retail shops. The depot was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and named an Orlando Historic Landmark in 1978. In 1988, the complex was expanded to include the Church Street Exchange and the Church Street Market. The development was led by Bob Snow and Steve Fuller and sold in 1989 for $61 million. The complex peaked in the 1980s, drawing approximately 1.7 million visitors a year. Due to failure to compete with major theme parks, visitor attendance dwindled and the complex was sold in 2001, only to close shortly after.
Original color photograph by Nancy Lynn Cepero, 1992: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Rosie O'Grady's Good Time Emporium, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Baldwin Park, a neighborhood located southwest of Lake Baldwin in Orlando, Florida, sometime betwen 2005 and 2006. The neighborhood is 1,000 acres, is home to 8,000 residents, and includes 125 businesses. Baldwin Park was built at the former site of the Naval Training Center Orlando (NTC Orlando). The community is an example of New Urbanism, a design movement which features walkable neighborhoods with a range of housing styles and job types. The movement began in the early 1980s and is influenced by the principles of traditional neighborhood design (TND) and transit-oriented development (TOD).
Original color photographs by Laura Lynn Cepero: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Orlando Magic at the Orlando Arena, 1991
The Orlando Magic playing the Milwaukee Bucks at the Orlando Arena, located at 1 West Amelia Street in Orlando, Florida, on December 19, 1991. The game ended with the Bucks defeating the Magic 95 to 87. Following the 1991-1992 season, the Magic would gain popularity as it acquired Shaquille O'Neal (b. 1972). Other notable Magic superstars over the years include Penny Hardaway (b. 1971), Tracy McGrady (b. 1979), and Dwight Howard (b. 1985). Planning for the Orlando Arena, colloquially nicknamed "The O-Rena", began in 1983, but the project was delayed for several years due to financial issues. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in January of 1987. Shortly thereafter, the National Basketball Association (NBA) approved the creation of a franchise in Orlando. Construction was completed in 1989 and cost $110 million. The Orlando Magic was founded that same year, becoming the first major-league professional sports franchise in the Orlando area. On September 19, 1991, the DeVos family, with Richard DeVos (b. 1926) as the head, bought the franchise for $85 million. Although the arena originally seated nearly 15,300 spectators, renovations between 1994 and 1995 increased the arena's capacity to approximately 17,500 guests. The name of the arena was changed to the TD Waterhouse Centre in 2000. In December of 2006, the venue was briefly named The Arena in Orlando and then the Amway Arena, after the City of Orlando and Orange County agreed to construct a new arena. The old Amway Arena closed on September 30, 2010, and operations moved to the new Amway Center, located at 400 West Church Street. Demolition of the old structure began on December 15, 2011. As of 2014, the City of Orlando has made plans to create a "Creative Village" on the site. This new complex would offer space for offices, residences, educational centers, hotels, retail stores, and entertainment venues.
Original color photographs, December 19, 1991: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Universal's Islands of Adventure, located at 6000 Universal Boulevard in Orlando, Florida, in 2001. The Incredible Hulk roller coaster can be seen to the right of the photograph. Part of Universal Studios Florida, the theme park opened on May 28, 1999. The idea for Islands of Adventure were first conceived in 1991. By 1993, plans were being announced. Construction began in 1997.
Universal's Islands Of Adventure, Orlando, Florida
Laura Lynn Cepero (b. 1987), Alicia Lynn Cepero (b. 1975), and Samantha Ariel Pryor (b. 1990) in Mystery Fun House, an Orlando attraction, in 2001. The attraction was founded by David A. Siegel on March 28, 1976, and was located at 5767 Major Boulevard. The fun house was closed in 2001.
Original color photograph by Nancy Lynn Cepero, 2001: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney-MGM Studios, 2000
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney-MGM Studios (now called Disney's Hollywood Studios), located at 351 South Studio Drive in 2000. MGM Studios is a theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Disney and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer agreed to a licensing contract that would allowed Disney to use the MGM name and logo for Disney-MGM Studios. Despite several lawsuits and countersuits between the two partners, the theme park opened on May 1, 1989. Around this same time, the Tower of Terror was being designed for Euro Disney (now Disneyland Paris). Euro Disney abandoned the project, which was picked up by MGM Studios. The ride is based on the television program The Twilight Zone. Construction began in the beginning of 1992 and the attraction opened on July 22, 1994. Disney-MGM Studios was renamed Disney's Hollywood Studios on January 7, 2008.
Original color photograph, 2000: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Disney-MGM Studios, Orlando, Florida
Nancy Lynn Cepero (b. 1954), on the right, at Adventureland at Magic Kingdom in 1974. Magic Kingdom, located at 1180 Seven Seas Drive, is a theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Construction for the resort began in 1967, after the death of Walt Disney (1901-1966). Magic Kingdom was the first park of the Walt Disney Resort to open on October 1, 1971. The park included 33 attractions in six themed areas: Main Street U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Liberty Square. Adventureland features themes of jungles in Africa, Asia, and South America.
Original color photograph by Ray Cepero, 1974: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Adventureland, Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Florida
Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom, 1974
Nancy Lynn Cepero (b. 1954) walking across the bridge at Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom in 1974.Magic Kingdom, located at 1180 Seven Seas Drive, is a theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Construction for the resort began in 1967, after the death of Walt Disney (1901-1966). Magic Kingdom was the first park of the Walt Disney Resort to open on October 1, 1971. The park included 33 attractions in six themed areas: Main Street U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Liberty Square. Tom Sawyer Island is an island in Frontierland that opened on May 20, 1973. It features references to Mark Twain's (1835-1910) novel The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.
Tom Sawyer Island, Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Florida
Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom, 1974
Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom in 1974. Magic Kingdom, located at 1180 Seven Seas Drive, is a theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Construction for the resort began in 1967, after the death of Walt Disney (1901-1966). Magic Kingdom was the first park of the Walt Disney Resort to open on October 1, 1971. The park included 33 attractions in six themed areas: Main Street U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Liberty Square. Main Street features architectural and decorative influences from various regions in the country.
Main Street, U.S.A., Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Florida
Rainbow Elementary School's Chorus at Downtown Disney, 1998
The chorus of Rainbow Elementary School, a school in Winter Springs, at Downtown Disney, an entertainment complex located at 1780 East Buena Vista Drive in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, in 1998. Originally called the Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village, the complex opened on March 22, 1975. In 1977, the complex was renamed Walt Disney World Village. Pleasure Island was added to the village on May 1, 1989, ad the complex was renamed the Disney Village Marketplace later that year. In 1995, Walt Disney World began to enhance and expand the complex, while also combing the Disney Village Marketplace and Pleasure Island into one district called Downtown Disney, which was introduced on September 7, 1998. On March 14, 2013, Disney announced that Downtown Disney would be revitalized as Disney Springs.
Original color photograph by Nancy Lynn Cepero, 1998: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
A LEGO structure at Downtown Disney, an entertainment complex located at 1780 East Buena Vista Drive in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, in 1998. Originally called the Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village, the complex opened on March 22, 1975. In 1977, the complex was renamed Walt Disney World Village. Pleasure Island was added to the village on May 1, 1989, and the complex was renamed the Disney Village Marketplace later that year. In 1995, Walt Disney World began to enhance and expand the complex, while also combining the Disney Village Marketplace and Pleasure Island into one district called Downtown Disney, which was introduced on September 7, 1998. On March 14, 2013, Disney announced that Downtown Disney would be revitalized as Disney Springs.
LEGO Imagination Center, Downtown Disney, Orlando, Florida
Special Olympics Track Practice at University High School, 1998
Special Olympics track practice at University High School, located at 2450 Cougar Way in Orlando, Florida, in 1998. The school was established in 1990 and is part of Orange County Public Schools (OCPS). University has both an International Baccalaureate (IB) program and a Global Technologies (GT) program. Special Olympics was founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver (1921-2009), the sister of President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963), in 1968. The project began as a day camp for children with intellectual disabilities in June of 1962. The first International Special Olympics Summer Games were held in 1968 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois.
University High School, Orlando, Florida
Discovery Island, located at the Walt Disney World Resort Bay Lake near Orlando, Florida, in September of 1991. Before the arrival of Walt Disney World, the 11.5-acre island was called Raz Island, in honor of the family that inhabited it. In the late 1930s, Delmar "Radio Nick" S. Nicholson (1898-1978) purchased the property and renamed it Idle Bay Isle. Twenty years later, the island was sold and renamed Riles Island, which was used as retreat for hunting. Disney finally bought the island in 1965, prior to the construction of the Walt Disney World Resort. On April 8, 1974, the property opened to guests as Treasure Island. Some years later, it was designated as a zoological park and renamed Discovery Island. On April 8, 1999, the park was closed to the public and all animals were relocated to Disney's Animal Kingdom or other zoos. Despite talks of developing Myst Island in cooperation of the developers of the video game Myst, the park remains closed to the public.
Original color photographs, September 1991: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Disney's River Country, located at the Walt Disney World Resort Bay Lake near Orlando, Florida, in June of 1991. In the first photograph, Dennis Cepero (b. 1986) can be seen in the bottom left corner wearing a white t-shirt. In the second photograph, Ray Cepero (b. 1947) can be seen in a blue swimsuit, with his daughter, Laura Lynn Cepero (b. 1987) sitting to his right. Set on the shore of Bay Lake, Disney's first water park opened on June 20, 1976. The wilderness-theme water park utilized a water-filtering system that used water dammed from Bay Lake. Despite competition from Disney's more successful water parks—Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach—River Country continued to operate until September 1, 2001. Originally, the park had planned to re-open when the warm-weather season came around in the spring of 2002. However, business for all Disney attractions suffered as a result of the terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C. on September 11, 2001. River Country did not re-open due to lack of guest demand.
Original color photographs, June 1991: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Disney's River Country, Orlando, Florida
Street Performer at Church Street Station, 1998
A street performer at Church Street Station, located at 76-135 West Church Street in Downtown Orlando, Florida, in March of 1998. The original site was occupied by a railroad depot built around 1883 for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (ACL). The depot was designed by T. B. Cotter in the Queen Anne/Eclectic Victorian style and constructed by Henry B. Plant (1819-1899). The building was demolished around 1890 and the current Church Street Station Depot was constructed by the South Florida Railroad on the same lot. The site also served the Tavares, Orlando and Atlantic Railroad, and the Orlando and Winter Park Railway. In 1926, the Orlando Health/Amtrak station took over passenger operations, but Church Street Station continued to serve as a ticket outlet and freight station until 1972. In 1973, a Dixieland-theme entertainment complex was established between the railroad tracks and Garland Avenue in seven vacant buildings for $22 million. The depot itself houses retail shops. The depot was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and named an Orlando Historic Landmark in 1978. In 1988, the complex was expanded to include the Church Street Exchange and the Church Street Market. The development was led by Bob Snow and Steve Fuller and sold in 1989 for $61 million. The complex peaked in the 1980s, drawing approximately 1.7 million visitors a year. Due to failure to compete with major theme parks, visitor attendance dwindled and the complex was sold in 2001, only to close shortly after.
Original color photograph, March 1998: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Church Street Station, located at 76-135 West Church Street in Downtown Orlando, Florida, in January of 1989. The original site was occupied by a railroad depot built around 1883 for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (ACL). The depot was designed by T. B. Cotter in the Queen Anne/Eclectic Victorian style and constructed by Henry B. Plant (1819-1899). The building was demolished around 1890 and the current Church Street Station Depot was constructed by the South Florida Railroad on the same lot. The site also served the Tavares, Orlando and Atlantic Railroad, and the Orlando and Winter Park Railway. In 1926, the Orlando Health/Amtrak station took over passenger operations, but Church Street Station continued to serve as a ticket outlet and freight station until 1972. In 1973, a Dixieland-theme entertainment complex was established between the railroad tracks and Garland Avenue in seven vacant buildings for $22 million. The depot itself houses retail shops. The depot was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and named an Orlando Historic Landmark in 1978. In 1988, the complex was expanded to include the Church Street Exchange and the Church Street Market. The development was led by Bob Snow and Steve Fuller and sold in 1989 for $61 million. The complex peaked in the 1980s, drawing approximately 1.7 million visitors a year. Due to failure to compete with major theme parks, visitor attendance dwindled and the complex was sold in 2001, only to close shortly after.
Original color photographs, 1989: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Rosie O'Grady's Good Time Emporium, 1989
Gertrude Welsh at Rosie O'Grady's Good Time Emporium in 1989. Rosie O'Grady's was a restaurant that was once part of the Church Street Station entertainment complex in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The original site was occupied by a railroad depot built around 1883 for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (ACL). The depot was designed by T. B. Cotter in the Queen Anne/Eclectic Victorian style and constructed by Henry B. Plant (1819-1899). The building was demolished around 1890 and the current Church Street Station Depot was constructed by the South Florida Railroad on the same lot. The site also served the Tavares, Orlando and Atlantic Railroad, and the Orlando and Winter Park Railway. In 1926, the Orlando Health/Amtrak station took over passenger operations, but Church Street Station continued to serve as a ticket outlet and freight station until 1972. In 1973, a Dixieland-theme entertainment complex was established between the railroad tracks and Garland Avenue in seven vacant buildings for $22 million. The depot itself houses retail shops. The depot was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and named an Orlando Historic Landmark in 1978. In 1988, the complex was expanded to include the Church Street Exchange and the Church Street Market. The development was led by Bob Snow and Steve Fuller and sold in 1989 for $61 million. The complex peaked in the 1980s, drawing approximately 1.7 million visitors a year. Due to failure to compete with major theme parks, visitor attendance dwindled and the complex was sold in 2001, only to close shortly after.
Gertrude Welsh and Lynn Lenahan at Church Street Station, located at 76-135 West Church Street in Downtown Orlando, Florida, in January of 1989. The original site was occupied by a railroad depot built around 1883 for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad (ACL). The depot was designed by T. B. Cotter in the Queen Anne/Eclectic Victorian style and constructed by Henry B. Plant (1819-1899). The building was demolished around 1890 and the current Church Street Station Depot was constructed by the South Florida Railroad on the same lot. The site also served the Tavares, Orlando and Atlantic Railroad, and the Orlando and Winter Park Railway. In 1926, the Orlando Health/Amtrak station took over passenger operations, but Church Street Station continued to serve as a ticket outlet and freight station until 1972. In 1973, a Dixieland-theme entertainment complex was established between the railroad tracks and Garland Avenue in seven vacant buildings for $22 million. The depot itself houses retail shops. The depot was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and named an Orlando Historic Landmark in 1978. In 1988, the complex was expanded to include the Church Street Exchange and the Church Street Market. The development was led by Bob Snow and Steve Fuller and sold in 1989 for $61 million. The complex peaked in the 1980s, drawing approximately 1.7 million visitors a year. Due to failure to compete with major theme parks, visitor attendance dwindled and the complex was sold in 2001, only to close shortly after.
Original color photograph by Nancy Lynn Cepero by Nancy Lynn Cepero, 1989: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
A variety of birds at Ormond Beach, Florida, in 2014. Some of the species of birds shown in the images include gulls, terns, sanderlings, dowitchers, and willets. Ormond Beach is a city located in Volusia County, just north of Daytona Beach. Timucuan Indians frequented the area, but it was not settled until 1643, when a group of Quakers arrived after being blown off course. Although relations were originally friendly, Timucuan chief Oseanoha led a raid of the Quaker encampment in 1704, obliterating the population. By 1708, the Spanish settled in the area, until the British took control. The city was named after James Ormond I, an Anglo-Irish-Scottish sea captain responsible for transporting Franciscan settlers to Florida on behalf of King Ferdinand VII of Spain. In 1821, the U.S. acquired Florida from Spain, but settlement was delayed by the Second Seminole War. Following the American Civil War, the area became a popular tourist destination for wealthy travelers. In 1875, settlers from New Britain, Connecticut, founded the city as New Britain, but the city was incorporated in 1880 as Ormond. The city was named after James Ormond I, an Anglo-Irish-Scottish sea captain responsible for transporting Franciscan settlers to Florida on behalf of King Ferdinand VII of Spain (1784-1833). The St. Johns & Halifax Railroad arrived in 1886 and the Ormond Hotel was constructed in 1888. The first automobile races were held on a track of beach from Ormond south to Daytona Beach in 1902. As a result, Ormond Beach is nicknamed "The Birthplace of Speed."
Original color digital images by Ray Cepero, February 12, 2014: Private Collection of Ray Cepero.
Sunrise at Ormond Beach, Florida, in 2012. Ormond Beach is a city located in Volusia County, just north of Daytona Beach. Timucuan Indians frequented the area, but it was not settled until 1643, when a group of Quakers arrived after being blown off course. Although relations were originally friendly, Timucuan chief Oseanoha led a raid of the Quaker encampment in 1704, obliterating the population. By 1708, the Spanish settled in the area, until the British took control. In 1821, the U.S. acquired Florida from Spain, but settlement was delayed by the Second Seminole War. Following the American Civil War, the area became a popular tourist destination for wealthy travelers. In 1875, settlers from New Britain, Connecticut, founded the city as New Britain, but the city was incorporated in 1880 as Ormond. The city was named after James Ormond I, an Anglo-Irish-Scottish sea captain responsible for transporting Franciscan settlers to Florida on behalf of King Ferdinand VII of Spain (1784-1833). The St. Johns & Halifax Railroad arrived in 1886 and the Ormond Hotel was constructed in 1888. The first automobile races were held on a track of beach from Ormond south to Daytona Beach in 1902. As a result, Ormond Beach is nicknamed "The Birthplace of Speed."
Original color digital image by Ray Cepero, September 15, 2012: Private Collection of Ray Cepero.
Ormond Beach, Florida, in 2012. Ormond Beach is a city located in Volusia County, just north of Daytona Beach. Timucuan Indians frequented the area, but it was not settled until 1643, when a group of Quakers arrived after being blown off course. Although relations were originally friendly, Timucuan chief Oseanoha led a raid of the Quaker encampment in 1704, obliterating the population. By 1708, the Spanish settled in the area, until the British took control. In 1821, the U.S. acquired Florida from Spain, but settlement was delayed by the Second Seminole War. Following the American Civil War, the area became a popular tourist destination for wealthy travelers. In 1875, settlers from New Britain, Connecticut, founded the city as New Britain, but the city was incorporated in 1880 as Ormond. The city was named after James Ormond I, an Anglo-Irish-Scottish sea captain responsible for transporting Franciscan settlers to Florida on behalf of King Ferdinand VII of Spain (1784-1833). The St. Johns & Halifax Railroad arrived in 1886 and the Ormond Hotel was constructed in 1888. The first automobile races were held on a track of beach from Ormond south to Daytona Beach in 1902. As a result, Ormond Beach is nicknamed "The Birthplace of Speed."
Original color digital image by Ray Cepero, May 26, 2012: Private Collection of Ray Cepero.
Hurricane Charley Aftermath in Ormond Beach
The aftermath of Hurricane Charley in Ormond Beach, Florida. Hurricane Charley formed on August 9, 2004, and dissipated on August 15. Charley was a Category 4 hurricane that made landfall in southwest Florida and was the strongest hurricane to hit the United States since Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Although Hurricane Charley weakened to 85 mph winds while passing over the Central Florida region, it still caused considerable damage, as seen in these photographs. Overall, the hurricane resulted in eight direct fatalities in Florida and cost the state over $13 billion in damage.
Original color photographs by Ray Cepero, August 2004: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Ormond Beach, Florida, in 1993. Ormond Beach is a city located in Volusia County, just north of Daytona Beach. Timucuan Indians frequented the area, but it was not settled until 1643, when a group of Quakers arrived after being blown off course. Although relations were originally friendly, Timucuan chief Oseanoha led a raid of the Quaker encampment in 1704, obliterating the population. By 1708, the Spanish settled in the area, until the British took control. In 1821, the U.S. acquired Florida from Spain, but settlement was delayed by the Second Seminole War. Following the American Civil War, the area became a popular tourist destination for wealthy travelers. In 1875, settlers from New Britain, Connecticut, founded the city as New Britain, but the city was incorporated in 1880 as Ormond. The city was named after James Ormond I, an Anglo-Irish-Scottish sea captain responsible for transporting Franciscan settlers to Florida on behalf of King Ferdinand VII of Spain (1784-1833). The St. Johns & Halifax Railroad arrived in 1886 and the Ormond Hotel was constructed in 1888. The first automobile races were held on a track of beach from Ormond south to Daytona Beach in 1902. As a result, Ormond Beach is nicknamed "The Birthplace of Speed."
Original color photographs, 1993: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
The Brevard Zoo, located at 8225 North Wickham Road in Melbourne, Florida, in 2000. Pictured in the photograph are, from left to right: an unidentified child, Alicia Lynn Cepero; Robert "Bobby" James Lenahan, Jr.; Laura Lynn Cepero; and Lynn Lenahan (née Sabatino). Construction for the zoo was spearheaded by the East Coast Zoological Society of Florida, Inc. (ECZS) and began in 1992. The zoo opened on March 26, 1994.
Original color photograph by Nancy Lynn Cepero, 2000: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
The Chabad of Greater Orlando, located at 708 Lake Howell Road in Maitland, Florida, in 2005. Chabad-Lubavitch is one of the largest Orthodox Jewish movements. "Chabad" is a Hebrew acronym for chochmah, binah, and da'at (wisdom, comprehension, and knowledge, respectively). "Lubavitch" is the name of the Russian town where the movement was founded by Shneur Zalman of Liadi (1745-1812) in 1755. Like other Orthodox Judaic denominations, Chabad Jews strictly follow the laws and ethics of the Torah, the Jewish religious text. The worldwide Chab movement numbers approximate 200,000 adherents.
Original color photograph by Laura Lynn Cepero, 2005: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Chabad of Greater Orlando, Maitland, Florida
Special Olympics Track Practice at Lake Mary High School, 1997
A Special Olympics track practice at Lake Mary High School, located at 655 Longwood Lake Mary Road in Lake Mary, Florida, on April 12, 1997. Lake Mary High first opened in 1981. From 2002 to 2006, the school has underwent a $20 million construction and remodeling project. Special Olympics was founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver (1921-2009), the sister of President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963), in 1968. The project began as a day camp for children with intellectual disabilities in June of 1962. The first International Special Olympics Summer Games were held in 1968 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois.
Lake Mary High School, Lake Mary, Florida
Three members of the Cepero family at Rock Springs Run State Reserve near Sorrento, Florida, in 1996. Photographed from left to right are Dennis Cepero (b. 1985), Laura Lynn Cepero (b. 1987), and Alicia Lynn Cepero (b. 1975). Rock Springs Run State Reserve is a state park that includes Indian mounds, pine flatwoods, swamps, and artesian springs. The site also includes Seminole Creek, Wekiwa Springs Run, Rock Springs Run, and Wekiwa River.
Original color photograph, 1996: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Rock Springs Run State Reserve, Lake County, Florida
Alicia Lynn Cepero (b. 1975) on a water slide at Water Mania, a presently abandoned water park located at 4449 West U.S. Route 192 in Kissimmee, Florida. The 36-acre park was originally owned by brothers Gary Larson and Randy Larson and opened in 1986. In 2005, the park, along with Larson's Lodge and Country Hearth Hotel were sold. Water Mania closed on September 5, 2005.
Original color photographs, September 1989: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Heathrow is an unincorporated community just west of Lake Mary, Florida. Heathrow was founded by Jeno F. Paulucci (1918-2011) in 1985. As a food business entrepreneur, Paulucci used the area to grow celery for Chun King, which was his line of Chinese-style food.
Original color postcard: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Hudson Beach, Florida, in May of 1991. Hudson Beach is located west of U.S. Route 19 and north of Port Richey in Pasco County. Before Hudson Beach was developed as a public beach in 1960, there was a small island located near present-day Harbor Drive that was used for swimming and picnicking. Original plans to develop the beach were led by Bud Clark, joined by Tom Sawyer and the Hudson Community Club. Despite slow progress, the State of Florida announced plans to develop a state park on the site, along with U.S.-19. The project was completed in 1960.
Original color photographs, May 1991: Private Collection of Nancy Lynn Cepero.
Doobie Brothers and Santana Tribute Concert at the Daytona Beach Bandshell, 2014
A Doobie Brothers and Santana Tribute Concert at the Daytona Beach Bandshell on August 16, August 16, 2014. Two restaurants, My Pi Pizza! and Sloppy Joe's, and a movie theater, Paragon Theaters, can also be seen in the images. Located at 70 Boardwalk in Daytona Beach, Florida, this amphitheater was constructed between 1936 1937. The Federal Works Progress Administration (WPA) began constructed in September of 1936 and the first program was presented on July 4, 1937. The bandshell was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic places on March 5, 1999.
Original color digital images by Ray Cepero, August 16, 2014: Private Collection of Ray Cepero.
The Daytona International Speedway, located at 1801 West International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1995. Home of 500-mile-long National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) Spring Cup Series motor race, this race track was opened in 1959. Automobile and motorcycle races began in 1902, due to the smooth, compacted sand that covered the beach. Daytona Beach became the site of various land speed record attempts in the first half of the 20th century. On March 8, 1936, the first stock car race was held on the Daytona Beach Road Course, which is located in present-day Ponce Inlet. Bill France, Sr. (1909-1992), the founder of NASCAR, began planning the track's construction in 1953 to replace the beach course. The track was engineered by Charles Moneypenney and construction was completed in 1958. The track has been renovated in 1978, 2004, and 2010. New renovations for Project Daytona Rising is scheduled for completion in January of 2016. The track also hosts events for the Auto Racing Club of America (ARCA), the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), Tudor United Sport scar Championship (USCC), the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), and Motocross.
The Daytona Beach Bandshell in Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1995. Located at 70 Boardwalk in Daytona Beach, Florida, this amphitheater was constructed between 1936 1937. The Federal Works Progress Administration (WPA) began constructed in September of 1936 and the first program was presented on July 4, 1937. The bandshell was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic places on March 5, 1999.
Cocoa Beach, Florida, in September of 1991. The first non-Amerindian settlement of the area, known as Oceanus, was a group of emancipated slaves following the end of the American Civil War. A group of citizens of neighboring Cocoa purchased the property in 1888, but left it undeveloped for several decades. In 1923, one of the groups members, Gus C. Edwards, purchased the land from his fellow co-owners. Cocoa Beach was incorporated as town on June 5, 1925. Edwards was elected the first mayor. The Florida Department of Transportation constructed State Road 140 (present-day State Road A1A) in 1935, allowing for increased development. In 1944, a Florida Legislature bill that would have dissolved the city government was defeated. The town was incorporated as a city on June 29, 1957. With the construction of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)'s John F. Kennedy Space Center (KCS), the city of Cocoa Beach experienced major growth in population and economic development. However, the city experienced layoffs and economic decline during the period between the conclusion of the Apollo Program and the introduction of the Space Shuttle Program.
An oral history of Bob Hattaway, conducted by Daniel Motta on June 14, 2012. Hattaway was born and raised in Altamonte Springs, Florida. In the interview, Hattaway discusses growing up in Altamonte Springs, working in the fern industry, his real estate and agricultural endeavors, his family's influence in Altamonte Springs and Casselberry, the greenhouse business, local politics, and the air travel industry.
Original 49-minute and 20-second oral history:Hattaway, Bob. Interviewed by Daniel Motta. June 14, 2012. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Winter Park High School, Winter Park, Florida
Orlando International Airport, Orlando, Florida
Orlando-Sanford International Airport, Sanford, Florida
Adult Toy Storage, Altamonte Springs, Florida
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (U.S.)
An oral history of Charles Whittington b. 1938), conducted by Joseph Morris on November 18, 2011. Whittington was born in Sanford, Florida, in March of 1938. In the interview, he discusses his childhood in Sanford and Charleston, celery and gladiola farming, his father's service in the U.S. Navy, his mother and sister, how Sanford has changed over time, his employment history, his world travel experiences, his activities after retirement, his work with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA),his wife and children, his service in the U.S. Army and in the U.S. Air Force, and the Apollo 8.
Original 58-minute and 16-second oral history: Whittington, Charles Interviewed. by Joseph Morris. November 18, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Sinclair Oil Corporation Gas Station, Sanford, Florida
Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, South Carolina
List of Recipients of Oranges from Belair Grove
An undated memorandum listing recipients of oranges sent from Belair Grove in Sanford, Florida. Recipients included the President Chester A. Arthur (1829-1886), ; William B. Allison (1829-1908), Republican Senator from Iowa; Senator Henry B. Anthony, Republican Senator from Rhode Island; Eugene Hale (1836-1918), Republican Senator from Maine; abolitionist Amos Adams Lawrence (1814-1886); U.S. Court of Claims Judge Bancroft Davis (1822-1907), who also was the president of the Newburgh and New York Railway Company; former Republican Governor of Connecticut Marshall Jewell (1825-1883); and Union General William Tecumseh Sherman (1820-1891). During that period, Henry Shelton Sanford (1823-1891), the owner of Belair Grove, actively courted President Arthur and high-ranking Republicans in the U.S Congress as part of his bid to win recognition in the country, and with it, international legitimacy, for King Leopold II (1835-1909) of Belgium's colonial enterprise in the Congo, what would become known as the Congo Free State. In 1883, acting on behalf of the King Leopold, Sanford mounted a lobbying campaign in Washington, D.C. Preceding these efforts, Sanford regularly corresponded with the President and influential legislators about the Belgian Congo. As part of his lobbying efforts, Sanford regularly sent boxes of Florida oranges to high-ranking officials. This list of recipients reflects the efforts of Sanford to sway public figures in positions of power.
Original memorandum by James Edmundson Ingraham: box 52, folder 5, subfolder 52.5.3, Henry Shelton Sanford Papers, General Henry S. Sanford Memorial Library, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
List of Recipients of Oranges from Belair Grove (January 18, 1883)
A memorandum listing recipients of oranges sent from Belair Grove in Sanford, Florida, dated January 18, 1883. The list denoted recipients of full boxes and half boxes of oranges. Recipients included J. S. Mack, Major W. D. Buckham, the wife of Lieutenant Aulick Palmer, J. H. Hammersley, H. O. Conner, and W. A. H. Wright. The boxes of oranges were presumably sent at the request of Henry Shelton Sanford (1823-1891), the owner of Belair Grove, though it is not clear how he knew the recipients. During that period, Henry Sanford, the owner of Belair Grove, actively courted President Arthur and high-ranking Republicans in the U.S Congress as part of his bid to win recognition in the country, and with it, international legitimacy, for King Leopold II (1835-1909) of Belgium's colonial enterprise in the Congo, what would become known as the Congo Free State. In 1883, acting on behalf of the King Leopold, Sanford mounted a lobbying campaign in Washington, D.C. Preceding these efforts, Sanford regularly corresponded with the President and influential legislators about the Belgian Congo. As part of his lobbying efforts, Sanford regularly sent boxes of Florida oranges to high-ranking officials. This list of recipients reflects the efforts of Sanford to sway public figures in positions of power.
Original memorandum, January 18, 1883: box 52, folder 5, subfolder 52.5.2, Henry Shelton Sanford Papers, General Henry S. Sanford Memorial Library, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
List of Recipients of Oranges from Belair Grove (December 24, 1882)
A memorandum listing recipients of oranges sent from Belair Grove in Sanford, Florida, dated December 24, 1882. The list denoted recipients of full boxes and half boxes of oranges. Notable recipients included Republican President Chester A. Arthur (1829-1886); William B. Allison (1829-1908), Republican Senator from Iowa; Senator Henry B. Anthony, Republican Senator from Rhode Island; Eugene Hale (1836-1918), Republican Senator from Maine; abolitionist Amos Adams Lawrence (1814-1886); U.S. Court of Claims Judge Bancroft Davis (1822-1907), who also was the president of the Newburgh and New York Railway Company; and Union General William Tecumseh Sherman (1820-1891). During that period, Henry Shelton Sanford (1823-1891), the owner of Belair Grove, actively courted President Arthur and high-ranking Republicans in the U.S Congress as part of his bid to win recognition in the country, and with it, international legitimacy, for King Leopold II (1835-1909) of Belgium's colonial enterprise in the Congo, what would become known as the Congo Free State. In 1883, acting on behalf of the King Leopold, Sanford mounted a lobbying campaign in Washington, D.C. Preceding these efforts, Sanford regularly corresponded with the President and influential legislators about the Belgian Congo. As part of his lobbying efforts, Sanford regularly sent boxes of Florida oranges to high-ranking officials. This list of recipients reflects the efforts of Sanford to sway public figures in positions of power.
Original memorandum by James Edmundson Ingraham, December 24, 1882: box 52, folder 5, subfolder 52.5.1, Henry Shelton Sanford Papers, General Henry S. Sanford Memorial Library, Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
An oral history with Diane Yeaton, President of the Board of Trustees of the Marine Discovery Center, located at 520 Barracuda Boulevard in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Yeaton migrated to New Smyrna Beach from Rhode Island in 2002. The Marine Discovery Center, Inc. (MDC) was founded in 1998 for the purpose of protecting the Indian River Lagoon. Founders include New Smyrna Beach Mayor, James Vandergrifft, as well as various civic leaders, biologists, and other members of the community.
Original 12-minute and 12-second oral history: Yeaton, Diane. Interview by Zachary McCormick. Daytona State College, New Smyrna Beach-Edgewater Campus. October 29, 2013. Audio/video record available.
Daytona State College
Marine Discovery Center, New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Marine Science Center, Ponce Inlet, Florida
An oral history with Sally Mackay, former mayor of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, and founder of the Hub on Canal, located at 132 Canal Street. Mackay migrated to Central Florida from Great Britain in 1973. In November of 2007, she was elected Mayor of New Smyrna Beach. She also served on the Volusia Council of Governments Executive Board, the Volusia League of Cities, and Florida League of Cities.
Original 49-minute and 18-second oral history: Mackay, Sally. Interview by Karen Botta, Ian Jones, Shannon Haley, Zachary McCormick, Brenna Broadway, and John Robert Grooms, Jr. Daytona State College, New Smyrna Beach-Edgewater Campus. November 12, 2013. Audio/video record available.
Croydon High School, London, England, United Kingdom
The Hub on Canal, New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Lake Monroe (Seminole County and Volusia County, Fla.)
An oral history of Bobby Martin (b. 1944), conducted by Daniel Motta on June 13, 2012. Martin was born in Tampa, Florida, in 1944, but spent much of his life as a commercial fisherman on Lake Jesup and Lake Monroe. In the interview, Martin discusses growing up in Longwood, serving in the military during the Vietnam War, the commercial fishing industry, the relationship between fishermen, fishing methods, catfish farming and the decline of the wild commercial fishing industry, leaving the fishing industry, and the dangers of fishing.
Original 59-minute and 36-second oral history: Martin, Bobby. Interviewed by Daniel Motta. June 13, 2012. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford Boat Works & Marina, Sanford, Florida
An oral history of Mary Carolyn Bistline (b. 1928), conducted by Stephanie Youngers on December 10, 2010. Bistline was born on December 22, 1928, in Memphis, Tennessee, but has spent most of her life in Florida. In this interview, Bistline discusses growing up in Miami, the economic and social development of Miami, going to college and getting married, migrating to Longwood, her career in education, the history of her family and her husband's family, the Central Florida Society for Historic Preservation, her husband and children, opening Oak Tree Preschool, and her children and grandchildren.
Original 48-minute and 15-second oral history: Bistline, Mary Carolyn. Interviewed by Stephanie Youngers. December 10, 2010. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Bradlee-McIntyre House, Longwood, Florida
Florida Southern College, Lakeland, Florida
An oral history of Arthurene Wilson Cook (b. 1930), conducted by Joseph Morris on October 4, 2011. Cook was born in Orlando, Florida, in 1930, but migrated to Sanford around 1942. In the interview, Cook discusses life in Sanford, her employment experiences, her husbands and children, growing up during the Great Depression, prosperity in the post-World War II era, her husband's career in the railroad industry, her children and grandchildren, and her battle with cancer.
Original 44-minute and 42-second oral history: Cook, Arthurene Wilson. Interviewed by Joseph Morris. October 4, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Magic Kingdom Park, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
An oral history of John Louis Salsbury, conducted by Joseph Morris on September 9, 2011. Salsbury was born in Tampa, Florida, but he has spent much of his life in Sanford. In the interview, Salsbury discusses his family's history, Port Tampa during the Spanish-American War, his service in the U.S. Air Force, photographing Space Shuttle launches and astronauts, how Sanford has changed over time, and the Florida Aviation Historical Society.
Original 1-hour, 4-minute, and 54-second oral history: Salsbury, John Louis. Interviewed by Joseph Morris. September 9, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
South Park Avenue and West 9th Street, Sanford, Florida
Port Tampa Dock, Port Tampa, Tampa, Florida
Norton Air Force Base, San Bernardino, California
Naval Air Station Keflavík, Keflavík, Iceland
Homestead Air Reserve Base, Homestead, Florida
John F. Kennedy Space Center, Titusville, Florida
Disney-MGM Studios, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
An oral history of Charlie Morgan, conducted by Joseph Morris on September 21, 2011. Morgan was born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1940, but migrated to Bookertown, an African-American community in Sanford, Florida. In the interview, Morgan discusses life in Bookertown, working in the agriculture and construction industries, segregation and race relations in Sanford, moonshine, civil rights, serving in the military during the Vietnam War, how Bookertown and Sanford have changed over time, and Mary McLeod Bethune (1875-1955).
Original 1-hour, 14-minute, and 22-second oral history: Morgan, Charlie Interviewed by Joseph Morris. September 21, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
An oral history of Rex Clonts, Jr., conducted by Joseph Morris on November 2, 2011. Clonts was born in Orlando, Florida, but he was raised in Oviedo. In the interview, Clonts discusses his family's work in agriculture, celery farming, how Oviedo has changed over time, the effect of Walt Disney World and the University of Central Florida (UCF) on the region, the citrus and cattle industries, the relationship between the Oviedo community and the Naval Air Station Sanford (NAS Sanford), and fire ants in Florida.
Original 55-minute and 16-second oral history: Clonts, Rex, Jr. Interviewed by Joseph Morris. November 2, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Naval Air Station Sanford, Sanford, Florida
An oral history of Harold Haldeman, conducted by Daniel Motta on July 11, 2012. Haldeman was born on November 12, 1924, in Tampa, Florida, but spent much of his life in Osceola. In the interview, Haldeman discusses his childhood, migration to Osceola, the differences between Maitland and Osceola, the sawmill in Osceola, the lumber industry, race relations in Central Florida, the effect of the Great Depression and World War II on industry, the Geneva airfield, and education in Geneva during the Depression.
Original oral history: Haldeman, Harold. Interviewed by Daniel Motta. July 11, 2012. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
Seminole County Landfill, Geneva, Florida
Oral History of Leonard Casselberry and Jane Casselberry
An oral history of Leonard and Jane Casselberry, conducted by Daniel Motta on May 30, 2012. In the interview, the Casselberrys discuss life in Casselberry, Florida, which was founded by Leonard's father, Hibbard Casselberry. Other topics discussed include the founding of Casselberry, working in the fern industry, the effect of World War II on the home front, how Leonard and Jane met, how Casselberry has changed over time, Hibbard Casselberry's involvement in growing azaleas and oak trees, and the Casselberrys' occupations after Leonard left the U.S. Navy.
Original 39-minute and 14-second oral history: Casselberry, Leonard and Jane Casselberry. Interviewed by Daniel Motta. UCF Community Veterans History Project. May 30, 2012. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Oral History of Ima Jean Bostick Yarborough
An oral history interview of Ima Jean Bostick Yarborough, conducted by Joseph Morris on November 10, 2011. Yarborough was born on August 2, 1935 in Ocala, Florida, but spent much of her adult life working in the cattle industry in Geneva. In the interview, she discusses her childhood in Ocala, how Ocala has changed over time, living in Oxford, the cattle industry, life in Geneva, the 4-H program, and her husband's military service.
Original 1-hour and 56-second oral history: Yarborough, Ima Jean Bostick. Interviewed by Joseph Morris. November 10, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
An oral history intervied of Ed L'Heureux, conducted by Stephanie Youngers on November 12, 2010. L'Heureux was born in Gloversville, New York, in May of 1939, but migrated to Winter Park, Florida, at the age of five. In the interview, L'Heureux discusses growing up in Winter Park, fish fry events, his wife and family, his careers as an insurance agent and as an author, Rollins College, The Yearling, race relations in Winter Park, hurricanes, his father's trucking business, his service in the military, and the effects of the development of Walt Disney World on Central Florida.
Original 39-minute and 25-second oral history: L'Heureux, Ed. Interviewed by Stephanie Youngers. November 12, 2010. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Winter Park Elementary, Winter Park, Florida
Mann and Mills Dry Goods Store and Lafayette Apartments
The Mann and Mills Dry Goods store at 31 South Main Street in Winter Garden, Florida. The building was constructed by James Lafayette Dillard (1858-1943) in 1922. Thomas Franklin Mann and Willie Mills migrated to Winter Garden in 1912, where they opened their original store in the Dillard and Boyd Building. They later relocated to the location in the photograph. The second floor featured the Lafayette Apartments was named in honor of Dillard. The building went through various owners over the years and during World War II, a man named Collie Biggers opened the Gem Theatre there to compensate for the popularity of the Garden Theatre. An array of businesses use the building now.
Original black and white photograph: Up From the Ashes Exhibit, Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, Winter Garden, Florida.
Lafayette Apartments, Winter Garden, Florida
Mann and Mills Dry Goods, Winter Garden, Florida
Two men walking on Main Street past the South Apopka Supply Company in Winter Garden, Florida. Located at 32 South Main Street, the building was erected around 1915 and stood directly south of the 1912 Dillard and Boyd Building. The South Apopka Supply Co. building later housed Earl W. Ewing's Real Estate and Insurance Business and the R. C. Stevens Construction Company. The Shelby Hotel can also be seen in the distance, on the corner of East Plant Street and North Main Street.
South Apopka Supply Company, Winter Garden, Florida
The M. V. Dillard and Company Garage, located on the corner of Plant Street and Main Street, just north of the Shelby Hotel, in Winter Garden, Florida. The garage was owned by James Lafayette Dillard (1858-1943), a local icon in Winter Garden. The garage was managed by Dillard's son, Marvin Dillard, who also worked as a taxi driver, transporting young men between Winter Garden and Orlando on Saturday nights. The second floor was occupied by a Cuban couple from Ybor City, who were hired by Dillard to make cigars. Some time later, the second floor became an armory. Dillard migrated to Central Florida from Virginia with his wife, Mattie Showalter, in 1887. He established himself primarily as a citrus and vegetable grower, but he also operated the M. V. Dillard and Company Garage, which was managed by his son, Marvin Dillard. In addition, he founded the Bank of Winter Garden, served as Wnter garden City Commissioner and a Florida State Legislator, and helped rebuild Downtown Winter Garden after two destructive fires in 1909 and 1912. Some of the buildings that Dillard helped construct include the Dillard and Boyd General Merchandise Store, the Shelby Hotel, and the Mann and Mills Dry Goods Store. He also donated land to the First Baptist Church of Winter Garden.
The interior of James Lafayette Dillard's (1858-1943) citrus packing house, located on South Dillard Street in Winter Garden, Florida, just south of the Tavares and Gulf Railroad tracks. Also seen in the photographs are members of Dillard's family. Standing in back, third from the left are Dillard; his daughter, Mabel Dillard; his wife, Mattie Showalter Dillard; and his daughter, Gladys Dillard. Sarah Jane Fowler is standing third from left in front. Dillard migrated to Central Florida from Virginia with his wife, Mattie Showalter, in 1887. He established himself primarily as a citrus and vegetable grower, but he also operated the M. V. Dillard and Company Garage, which was managed by his son, Marvin Dillard. In addition, he founded the Bank of Winter Garden, served as Wnter garden City Commissioner and a Florida State Legislator, and helped rebuild Downtown Winter Garden after two destructive fires in 1909 and 1912. Some of the buildings that Dillard helped construct include the Dillard and Boyd General Merchandise Store, the Shelby Hotel, and the Mann and Mills Dry Goods Store. He also donated land to the First Baptist Church of Winter Garden.
Dillard Packing House, Winter Garden, Florida
James Lafayette Dillard and Mabel Dillard at Dillard's Orange Groves
A photograph of James Lafayette Dillard (1858-1943) and his daughter, Mabel Dillard, riding in a horse-drawn carriage through Dillard's orange groves. Dillard migrated to Central Florida from Virginia with his wife, Mattie Showalter, in 1887. He established himself primarily as a citrus and vegetable grower, but he also operated the M. V. Dillard and Company Garage, which was managed by his son, Marvin Dillard. In addition, he founded the Bank of Winter Garden, served as Wnter garden City Commissioner and a Florida State Legislator, and helped rebuild Downtown Winter Garden after two destructive fires in 1909 and 1912. Some of the buildings that Dillard helped construct include the Dillard and Boyd General Merchandise Store, the Shelby Hotel, and the Mann and Mills Dry Goods Store. He also donated land to the First Baptist Church of Winter Garden.
James Lafayette Dillard (1858-1943) is a local icon in Winter Garden, Florida. Dillard migrated to Central Florida from Virginia with his wife, Mattie Showalter, in 1887. He established himself primarily as a citrus and vegetable grower, but he also operated the M. V. Dillard and Company Garage, which was managed by his son, Marvin Dillard. In addition, he founded the Bank of Winter Garden, served as Wnter garden City Commissioner and a Florida State Legislator, and helped rebuild Downtown Winter Garden after two destructive fires in 1909 and 1912. Some of the buildings that Dillard helped construct include the Dillard and Boyd General Merchandise Store, the Shelby Hotel, and the Mann and Mills Dry Goods Store. He also donated land to the First Baptist Church of Winter Garden.
South Intersection of Main Street and Plant Street, Winter Garden
A southward view of Main and Plant Street in Winter Garden, Florida, prior to the fires of 1909 and 1912. The large building on the right is A. B. Newton's Dry Good Store, which was later replaced by Dillard and Boyd General Merchandise Store. Behind the dry good store is Croft and Jones Grocery. In the distance, on the left, is the Orange Hotel. Tavares and Gulf Railroad Company railroad cars are pictured in the background.
Intersection of Main Street and Plant Street, Winter Garden, Florida