Catalog and Price List, 1908-1909: Isleworth Nurseries
A catalog and price list for Isleworth Nurseries from 1908 to 1909. The nursery was owned by Chase & Company and managed by J. W. Hoard. The catalog offers tips for citrus growers for selecting land, planting crops, pruning, cultivating, fertilizing, and irrigating. The catalog also includes price lists for varieties of oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and kumquats. Chase & Company was established by Joshua Chase and his brother Sydney in 1884. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century. By 1886, the Chase brothers purchased several citrus groves to expand their business, including Isleworth Grove. Isleworth Grove covered a total of 1,300 acres along the Butler Chain of Lakes. Between 1894 and 1895, Central Florida was hit by several freezes and most of the citrus crop was destroyed. Chase & Company did not grow citrus crops again until 1904 when Joshua came back from an extended stay in California. Between 1894 and 1900, different types of pesticide equipment was created, including equipment driven by steam, machines, and horses.Randall Chase joined in the family business soon after his brother, Sydney Chase, Jr., did in 1922. Randall became the president of Chase & Company from 1948-1965. The Isleworth property stayed in the Chase family until 1984 when Franklin Chase, the son of Sydney Chase, sold the property to famed golfer Arnold Palmer.
Original catalog: Pepper Publishing and Printing Company, Gainesville, Florida: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 24, folder 6.46, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Filling station in Slavia, Florida, in 1929. As of 2013, the building still remains at 1973 West State Road 426. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century. Slavia was established in 1911 when the Slavia Colony Company purchased about 1,200 acres of land west of Oviedo. The earliest settlers of the community came from rural areas in Central Europe who were attracted to Florida's warm climate and rich soil. By the mid-1920s, celery became Slavia's leading cash crop.
Original 3 x 5 inch black and white photograph, March 2, 1929: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 214, folder 15.100, item CC3, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Fieldworkers harvesting celery in Slavia, Florida, in 1929. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century. Slavia was established in 1911 when the Slavia Colony Company purchased about 1,200 acres of land west of Oviedo. The earliest settlers of the community came from rural areas in Central Europe who were attracted to Florida's warm climate and rich soil. By the mid-1920s, celery became Slavia's leading cash crop.
Original 3 x 5 inch black and white photograph, March 2, 1929: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 213, folder 15.100, item CC4, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
A twelve-car train transporting Chase & Company celery in Sanford, Florida, in 1936. The origins of Sanford's connection to celery farming began on December 26, 1894, when a freeze damaged the area's citrus groves. They began to recover during a warm and wet January which promoted new shoots, but a second freeze hit on February 7, 1895, practically wiping them out. The 24 degree temperature was the coldest known in Florida to that point. The freeze was so intense that the sap froze inside the trunks, many of which split open, sounding like gunshots, and crashed to the ground. The population quickly dropped from five thousand to two thousand, as the groves were abandoned. I. H. Terwilliger stayed after the freezes and is believed to have planted the first celery grown in Sanford in 1896. J. N. Whitner and B. F. Whitner, Sr. planted 3/4 acre in 1897 with celery imported from Kalamazoo, Michigan. Chase & Company also converted to celery cultivation and by 1898, celery became the crop synonymous to Sanford. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 8 x 10 inch black and white photograph, 1936: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 213, folder 15.100, item CC79, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Chase & Company Staff with Sydney Octavius Chase
Postcard showing the Chase & Company staff at the Sanford office, located at 110 West First Street, in 1918. Photographed from left to right is bookkeeper Wess Hayden, stenographer Segros Velelen "Wes Huetes," stenographer Mrs. Cox, business co-owner Sydney Octavius Chase, and William A. Leffler. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original black and white postcard, May 1918: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 214, folder 15.101, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
The Sales Department staff at Chase & Company office, located at 110 West First Street in Sanford, Florida, around 1910. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 5 x 7 inch black and white photograph: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 213, folder 15.101, item CC16, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
The Chase & Company Packing House in Sanford, Florida, in 1936. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 5 x 7 inch black and white photograph by A. Wieboldt, March 3, 1936: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 213, folder 15.101,item CC15, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
The Chase & Company building near the railroad in Sanford, Florida, on March 3, 1936. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 5 x 7 inch black and white photograph by A. Wieboldt, March 3, 1936: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 213, folder 15.101, item CC14, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Workers bathing at a Chase & Company picnic on March 3, 1936 in Sanford, Florida. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 3 x 5 black and white photograph by A. Wieboldy, March 3, 1936: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 213, folder 15.102, item CC31, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Isleworth Grove Citrus Display at the New York World's Fair
New York World's Fair (1939-1940 : New York, N.Y.)
Isleworth Valencia oranges displayed at the 1939-1940 New York World's Fair during Florida Days on September 7-8, 1940. The fair was held at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in the Queens borough of New York City, New York, from April 30, 1939 to October 31, 1940 The fruit was shipped from Isleworth Grove in Windermere, Florida, on May 8, 1940. Chase & Company was established by Joshua Chase and his brother Sydney in 1884. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century. By 1886, the Chase brothers purchased several citrus groves to expand their business, including Isleworth Grove. Isleworth Grove covered a total of 1,300 acres along the Butler Chain of Lakes. Between 1894 and 1895, Central Florida was hit by several freezes and most of the citrus crop was destroyed. Chase & Company did not grow citrus crops again until 1904 when Joshua came back from an extended stay in California. Between 1894 and 1900, different types of pesticide equipment was created, including equipment driven by steam, machines, and horses.Randall Chase joined in the family business soon after his brother, Sydney Chase, Jr., did in 1922. Randall became the president of Chase & Company from 1948-1965. The Isleworth property stayed in the Chase family until 1984 when Franklin Chase, the son of Sydney Chase, sold the property to famed golfer Arnold Palmer.
Original 8 x 10 black and white photograph, September 1940: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 213, folder 15.103, item CC43, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, New York City, New York
Chase & Company citrus exhibit at an exposition. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 6 x 7 black and white photograph: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 214, folder 15.103, item CC46, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Celery in a Chase & Company car ca. 1920-1921. Pictured in the photograph are Thomas Jones and William A. Leffler. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 5 x 7 black and white photograph: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 214, folder 15.103, item CC47, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Chase & Company Packing House in Frostproof
The Chase & Company Packing House in Frostproof, Florida, in 1922. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 10 x 7 inch black and white photograph, 1922: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 214, folder 15.105, item CC79, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Chase & Company Sanford Packing House Before Fire
The Chase & Company Packing House in Sanford, Florida before being destroyed by fire. The building was rebuilt in 1908. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 5 x 7 inch black and white photograph: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 214, folder 15.105, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Chase & Company Orange Packers in Winter Park
R. W. Givin standing in the doorway of the Chase & Company Orange Packers building in Winter Park in 1892. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 8 x 10 inch black and white photograph, 1892: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 214, folder 15.105, item CC81, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Chase & Company Packing House in Sanford Before Fire
The interior of the Chase & Company Packing House in Sanford before it was destroyed by fire. The building was rebuilt in 1908. Chase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Truck at Chase & Company Packing House in Sanford
Chase & Company packing house in Sanford in 1936. CChase & Company was established in 1884 by brothers Sydney Octavius Chase and Joshua Coffin Chase. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original 3 x 5 inch black and white photographs by A. Wieboldt, March 30, 1936: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 214, folder 8.18D, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Pine Needle Basket Weaved by a Geneva Resident
Pine needle basket woven by Mrs. Nixon, a Geneva resident, in 1917. Geneva is a community in Seminole County. The area was originally inhabited by the Timucuan tribe as early as 2000 B.C.E. Between 1765 and 1766, John and William Bartram explored the St. John's River, including the area that would become Geneva, which was inhabited at the time by the Seminole tribe formed in the 1760s. New settlers arrived and settled in Harney Cove during the 1843-1845 period. Harney Cove was renamed Geneva in 1880.
Original 12 x 12 inch pine needle basket by Mrs. Nixon, 1917: Museum of Geneva History, Geneva, Florida.
John Hanahan Sams (1839-1924) was one of the founders of St. Luke's Episcopal Church of Courtenay. He was the first Senior Warden of St. Luke's Episcopal Church. Sams and his family immigrated to Brevard County from John's Island, South Carolina to make a fresh start after the Civil War in 1875. Sams was also citrus grower, pineapple grower, sugar cane grower, first superintendent of schools for Brevard County, and early pioneer. His home is preserved at 6195 North Tropical Trail in Merritt Island, Florida. St. Luke's Church is located at 5555 North Tropical Trail in Courtenay, an unincorporated community in Merritt Island, Florida. In the 1870s, the church founding families of LaRoche, Porcher, and Sams migrated from Charleston and John's Island of South Carolina and settled in Courtenay, Florida. The Carpenter Gothic-style church was erected in 1888, with funding from Lucy A. Boardman and land from Edward Porcher. The first resident Vicar of St. Luke's, Reverend Paul A. Perrine Jr., was appointed in 1962 and the congregation began to grow steadily. On November 15, 1974, the church was admitted as a Parish in the Diocese of Central Florida, with Father Perrine as the first rector. The church and cemetery were added to the National Register of Historic Places under the name "Old St. Luke's Episcopal Church and Cemetery" on June 15, 1990.
Original digital color image by Tom McFarland, 2012.
St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Courtenay, Merritt Island, Florida
A kindergarten student at Fort Christmas Historical Park using a pump that was used for chores in the mid-nineteenth century at Fort Christmas, Florida. Present-day Christmas was originally occupied by the Timucuan tribe, which was eventually obliterated by European diseases when the Spanish arrived in Florida. In the early eighteenth century, the Seminole tribes began migrating to Florida to raise cattle and grow citrus. Due to the outbreak of the Second Seminole War, the United States began the construction of Fort Christmas began on December 25, 1837. The fort was used as a supply depot for its strategic location, but was abandoned in March 1838 as the Seminoles moved southward. In the late 1970s, the Orange County Department of Parks and Recreation and the Fort Christmas Historical Society constructed a replica of the historic Fort Christmas just south of Christmas Creek. Fort Christmas Historical Park, located at 1300 Fort Christmas Road, was dedicated in 1977.
Original color digital image by Larry D. Davis, Jr., November 11, 2009: Private Collection of Dr. Larry D. Davis, Jr.
Fort Christmas Historical Park, Christmas, Florida
U.S. Army Air Force Aircraft Warning Service Armband from Geneva
United States Army Air Force Aircraft Warning Service armband used during World War II. The Aircraft Warning Service (AWS) was a civilian service of the Army's Ground Observer Corps used to watch for enemy aircraft entering American airspace. Volunteers were organized in May 1941 and the service remained active until May 29, 1944.
Original 4 x 18 inch felt armband: Museum of Geneva History, Geneva, Florida.
Seminole-Goldenrod Volunteer Fire Department
The Goldenrod Volunteer Fire Department Station 4810 in the early 1970s. The station was likely photographed by John Viles, then Fire Chief for Station 23. Goldenrod formed its volunteer fire department in the 1950s with its own trucks and erected a building on Palmetto Avenue in Goldenrod to serve both Orange County and Seminole County residents. Around 1969, Orange County established a fire department at that location at 4755 Palmetto Avenue. In order to service the Seminole County residents of Goldenrod, the volunteer fire department moved to this location and became the Seminole-Goldenrod Volunteer Fire Department. The location was later taken over by Seminole County and renamed the Seminole County Fire Station 23.
Original 3 x 4 inch color photograph by John Viles: Goldenrod Historical Society & Museum, Goldenrod, Florida.
Seminole-Goldenrod Volunteer Fire Department, Goldenrod, Florida
Geneva Elementary School around 1950. The brick school house was designed by Elton J. Moughton and constructed in 1924 at 101 East Main Street in Geneva, Florida. The building had three classrooms, an office, and an auditorium to serve grades one through twelve. In the 1940s, the building became Geneva Elementary School. A unique 4-H program was established in 1941 by the school's principal, Willie Sieg. The program encompassed courses on home economics and farming, and also won various awards. In May 1988, a new campus for the elementary school was built at 275 First Street. The original building was dedicated in 1955 as the Geneva Family Resource Center. In 2008, the building was converted into the Rural Heritage Center and is listed on the Florida Site File of Historic Places, as well as the Seminole County Threatened and Endangered Resources List.
Original 7 x 5 inch black and white photograph: Museum of Geneva History, Geneva, Florida.
Geneva Elementary School, Geneva, Florida
St. Luke's Episcopal Church Historical Records
Selected pages from St. Luke's Episcopal Church's record book covering the period 1888 through 1959 including a brief history of the mission. The record book includes baptisms, confirmations, communicants, marriagess, and burials. St. Luke's Church is located at 5555 North Tropical Trail in Courtenay, an unincorporated community in Merritt Island, Florida. In the 1870s, the church founding families of LaRoche, Porcher, and Sams migrated from Charleston and John's Island of South Carolina and settled in Courtenay, Florida. The Carpenter Gothic-style church was erected in 1888, with funding from Lucy A. Boardman and land from Edward Porcher. The first resident Vicar of St. Luke's, Reverend Paul A. Perrine Jr., was appointed in 1962 and the congregation began to grow steadily. On November 15, 1974, the church was admitted as a Parish in the Diocese of Central Florida, with Father Perrine as the first rector. The church and cemetery were added to the National Register of Historic Places under the name "Old St. Luke's Episcopal Church and Cemetery" on June 15, 1990.
St. Luke's Episcopal Church
Original record book: St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Merritt Island, Florida: Florida Historical Society Library, Central Brevard Public Library, Cocoa, Florida.
The Apopka Chief, volume I, number 47 for March 7, 1924. This edition of the newspaper announces a new publishing plant, built by Lee F. Lovell, measuring 80 feet by 35 feet and featuring a Single Keyboard 14 Linotype. Published by the Apopka Printing Company, Inc. this edition of The Apopka Chief is the first to be issued from the new plant. Other article topics in the newspaper include the election of Leslie Waite for City Commissioner of Apopka, plans to begin the Big Audubon Park Project, and the opening of a new Methodist church and the history of Methodism in Apopka. The Apopka Chief was established in Apopka, Florida in 1923. The newspaper covers local current events, opinions, letters to the editor, and advertising. At the time that this issue was printed, Albert M. Hall served as the editor of the Apopka Printing Company, with Olive J. MacWhorter as the secretary-treasurer and W. E. MacWhorter as the general manager.
The Apopka Chief, Vol. I, No. 47, March 7, 1924: Apopka, Fla: Apopka Printing Company, Inc.: reel 1, Microfilm Collection, Apopka Historical Society and Museum of the Apopkans, Apopka, Florida.
Standard Oil Florida Road Map with Pictorial Guide
Standard Oil road map of Florida from 1954. The map shows the state of Florida, especially Central Florida and Orlando in 1954. Details of cities and towns, and major roads before Central Florida was bisected by interstate highways and the Florida Turnpike.
Original color map, 1954: General Drafting Company, Inc.: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Stephen Foster Memorial, White Springs, Florida
Postcard showing the southern end of Park Avenue in Winter Park, Florida. On the left is the Colony Theatre built in 1939. Park Avenue is Winter Park's historic main street. Originally located at 329 South Park Avenue, the Colony Theatre opened in 1939 and became a regional attraction in the 1950s and 1960s. The theater closed on September 28, 1975 and renovations of the building took place from 1976 to 1977. The site re-opened as the Colony Gardens in 1978. The building is now occupied by Pottery Barn.
Original 5.5 x 3.5 inch color postcard by Genuine Curteich-Chicago: Orange News Company, Orlando, Florida: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
History of Orange County, Florida: Narrative and Biographical
Selected pages from History of Orange County Florida: Narrative and Biographical by William Fremont Blackman, Ph.D., L.L.D. Blackman was formally a professor at Yale University and President of Rollins College. The book was published by the E. O. Painter Printing Company of DeLand, Florida in 1927. The book gives a basic history of Orange County as well as biographical sketches of many of the counties early settlers and important citizens. It has 42 photographic portraits of some of the citizens.
Blackman, William Fremont. History of Orange County, Florida: Narrative and Biographical. Chuluota, Fla: Mickler House, 1973.
Road map showing the Florida Turnpike, its toll plazas, exits and service stations. The brochure was produced in 1964. Construction for the Florida Turnpike began on July 4, 1955 in response to unprecedented growth in population and tourism in Florida. Thomas B. Manuel, chairman of the Florida State Turnpike Authority and the "Father of the Turnpike," led planning and construction. The highway opened on January 25, 1957.
Original map, 1964: Florida State Turnpike Authority: Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Florida State Turnpike Authority
Florida's Turnpike and Interstate System Map, 1967
Road map showing the Florida Turnpike, it's toll plazas, exits and service stations. The brochure was produced in 1967. Construction for the Florida Turnpike began on July 4, 1955 in response to unprecedented growth in population and tourism in Florida. Thomas B. Manuel, chairman of the Florida State Turnpike Authority and the "Father of the Turnpike," led planning and construction. The highway opened on January 25, 1957.
Original map, 1967: Florida State Turnpike Authority: Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Early Settlers of Orange County, Florida: Reminiscent-Historic-Biographic
Early Settlers of Orange County, Florida, printed in 1915 and published by Clarence E. Howard of Orlando, Florida. The book also includes an article "Early History of Orlando" written by J.N. Whitner of Sanford, Florida. This 68-page book contains the biographies of many of Orange County's early settlers.
Howard, Clarence E. Early Settlers of Orange County, Florida: Reminiscent-Historic-Biographic. Orlando, Fla: C.E. Howard, 1915.
The Cher-O-Key, the bimonthly school newspaper published by the Journalism Club of Cherokee Junior High School, which was located at 550 South Eola Drive in Orlando, Florida when it opened in 1927. The Volume I, Number 101 edition was published on May 16, 1929 and cost one cent. Article topics in the newspaper include the ninth grad banquet, Allen Hage's award as best citizen at Cherokee, the sixth grade visit to the school, Mothers Day, final examinations for the school year, club news, Cherokee's win at the Orange County track meet, the selection of members for the Honor Society, school sports and physical fitness, and humor.
Journalism Club of Cherokee Junior High School
Original school newspaper by Robert Cox, ed.: The Cher-O-Key Vol. I No. 1. May 17, 1929: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Cherokee Junior High School, Orlando, Florida
Cast Member Map of Walt Disney World from 1986, showing such locations as the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT Center, the future location of the Disney-MGM Studios, Fort Wilderness Campground, the Contemporary Resort, Lake Buena Vista Village, Walt Disney World Village, and the future location of Pleasure Island. This map was issued to all new employees around 1986. It was not for public/tourist use, as it lists all areas that are accessible by employees only. This includes employee parking areas, access roads as well as a map of the Magic Kingdom Tunnel complex, the underground corridors and rooms that the rest of the Magic Kingdom is built upon.
Original map, 1986: Walt Disney Company: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Walt Disney Company
Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Disney's MGM Studios, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Fort Wilderness Campground, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Disney's Contemporary Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa, Orlando, Florida
Downtown Disney Pleasure Island, Pleasure Island, Florida
Visit of President Lyndon B. Johnson to Orlando, Florida Program
The program President Lyndon B. Johnson's visit to Orlando, which took place on October 25 and 26, 1964. The program includes the schedule of arrival in Orlando and the program at Colonial Plaza. The program also lists various important Orlando and Orange County elected officials, as well as individuals that represent the Democratic Party as candidates in the 1964 election.
Original program, 1964: Orange County Johnson for President Committee: Prviate Collection of Thomas Cook.
Orange County Johnson for President Committee
West Central Boulevard and South Orange Avenue, Orlando, Florida
South Orange Avenue and East Colonial Drive, Orlando, Florida
Postcard showing the Tremont Hotel, formerly located at 145 Main Street (present-day South Magnolia Avenue) in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The hotel was constructed between 1882 and 1895. The original owner was Captain James Walle Wilmott, who reportedly sailed around the world a total of eight times. The site was a conglomeration of three buildings: half of the Charleston House Hotel (the western section with a flat roof), all of the 1875 Orange County Courthouse (the three-story south section), and part of a building that had belonged to the Methodist Church (northern section). The 1872 Union Free Church was also moved to the site to be used as kitchen/outbuilding. The hotel was demolished in 1956.
A cover of a pamphlet for the Scottish Rites of the Masons, Fall Reunion in Orlando in 1976. The Scottish Rite Temple was located at 74 West Gore Street.
Original pamphlet, 1976: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
State Bank of Orlando and Trust Company Postcard
Postcard showing the State Bank of Orlando Building, located at 1 North Orange Avenue in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The bank was formed in 1893 with Louis Massey as its president. In 1919, the State Bank converted into the State Bank and Trust Company and also acquired the northeast corner of Orange Avenue and Central Boulevard that year. A. G. Bentley constructed a ten-story building on that lot, designed by W. L. Stoddart in the 20th Century Commercial style with Neo-Classical elements. The building was used by the bank until it closed in 1929. In 1927, the building was acquired by Orange County and served as governmental offices, including the office of the sheriff and supervisor of elections. In 1933, the Florida Bank at Orlando acquired the property. In 2002, it housed the temporary home of Florida Atlantic Metropolitan University's Law School.
Original 3.5 x 5.5 inch color postcard by E. C. Kropp Company: E. C. Kropp Company, Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
State Bank of Orlando and Trust Company, Orlando, Florida
State Bank of Orlando Check to Burlington Savings Bank (January 4, 1905)
State Bank of Orlando check to Burlington Savings Bankdated January, 4th. 1905. The check was paid to the order of the State Bank of Orlando and the value received and charge was to Burlington Savings Bank of Burlington, Vermont in the sum of $300. The check was signed by Walter A Smith, who was a cashier of the State Bank of Orlando. The bank was formed in 1893 with Louis Massey as president. In 1919, the State Bank converted into the State Bank and Trust Company and also acquired the northeast corner of Orange Avenue and Central Boulevard that year. A. G. Bentley constructed a ten-story building on that lot, designed by W. L. Stoddart in the 20th Century Commercial style with Neo-Classical elements. The building was used by the bank until it closed in 1929. In 1933, the Florida Bank at Orlando acquired the property. In 1927, the building was acquired by Orange County and served as governmental offices, including the office of the sheriff and supervisor of elections. In 2002, it housed the temporary home of Florida Atlantic Metropolitan University's Law School.
Original check to Burlington Savings Bank, January 4, 1905: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Seaboard Air Line Railroad Time Tables: Route of the Steamliners
Seaboard Air Line Railroad Company--Maps
Brochure listing the Seaboard Airline Railroad time tables for 1948. The brochure illustrates the benefits of traveling to Florida by rail. The railroad dates back to 1832 when the Portsmouth & Roanoke Rail road was chartered in Virginia. The company was reorganized as the Seaboard & Gaston Railroad and the Raleigh & August Air-Line Railroad to form the Seaboard Air Line System, which expanded through the south. The Orlando rail station was razed in 1955. By the 1960s, the railroad was a major competitor of the Atlantic Coast Line and eventually merged with ACL in 1967. Amtrak took over operations in 1971.
Original 34-page brochure by the Seaboard Air Line Railroad, 1948: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Homosassa, Florida
Highlands Hammock State Park, Sebring, Florida
Seven-inch, 33 1/3 speed record titled "Recruit Training - Sounds to Remember" Naval Training Center, Orlando, Florida. The record was produced by the Walsworth Publishing Company of Marceline, Missouri. The Orlando Naval Training Center (NTC) was commissioned on July 1, 1968 and built on land formerly used for the Orlando Air Base, which was decommissioned in 1946. Construction for the second camp began in 1969 and was scheduled to be completed by mid-1973, the year in which Orlando became the only site of recruit training for enlisted women. The NTC closed on March 31, 1995.
Original 33 1/3 speed record by Orlando Naval Training Center: "Recruit Training: Sounds to Remember": Walsworth Publishing Company, Marceline, Missouri: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Walsworth Publishing Company
Orlando Naval Training Center, Orlando, Florida
Postcard showing the United States Post Office and Federal Courthouse at 42-44 East Central Boulevard in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The building was constructed in a Spanish Colonial Revival style from 1939 to 1941 and dedicated on April 14, 1941. It has been occupied by the United States Post Office since 1941, the Federal District Courthouse from 1941 to circa 1974, the office of the Roman Catholic Church since 2003. The building was renovated in the early 2000s and was modified for office and retail use, with the Post Office retaining 13,200 square feet. Plans included an adjacent parking garage on the north side, though that that aspect never came to fruition. St. James Roman Catholic Cathedral, located across Court Street from the Post Office, purchased the parts of the building not utilized by the Post Office and use it for Chancery office space.
Original 5.5 x 3.5 inch inch color postcard: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
U.S. Post Office and Federal Courthouse, Orlando, Florida
Tourism booklet from the mid-1920s. It contains 16 pages and shows many Orlando city sights including buildings in the Orlando commercial district. The Orlando area was originally occupied by the Creek and Seminole tribes. In 1838, Fort Gatlin was erected on the shores of Lake Gatlin, just a few miles south of present-day downtown Orlando. Centered around Church Street in Orlando, Orlando became a city in 1884. Originally a cattle town, Orlando grew into a major citrus growing center by the 1920s. The city continued to grow during the Great Depression with aid from the Work Progress Administration (WPA). During World War II, Orlando became a major military center as well with the development of the McCoy and Pinecastle Air Force Bases, and with the addition of the Orlando Naval Training Center in 1968. Downtown Orlando declined in the 1960s and 1970s. Redevelopment began in the 1970s and continued into the 1980s, with projects such as Church Street Station. In 1998, a building boom began and continued through the 2000s.
Original 9-page booklet: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Orange Avenue and Pine Street, Orlando, Florida
Orange County Courthouse, Orlando, Florida
Albertson Public Library, Orlando, Florida
First Presbyterian Church, Orlando, Florida
First Methodist Episcopal Church, Orlando, Florida
Sperry Fountain, Lake Eola Park, Orlando, Florida
Memorial High School on Lake Eola Postcard
Postcard showing Memorial High School, located at 151 East Washington Street. The school was constructed by J. C. Hanner in 1922 and dedicated on December 3, 1922. The building was designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style and was named Memorial High School in honor of the "Orange County Boys who gave their lives in the World War." The building housed Orlando Memorial High School from 1922 to 1927, Memorial Junior High School from 1925 to 1958, and Orlando City Hall in 1961. In 1961, the building was sold to Roland M. Mumford, president of the Meyer Hotel of Jacksonville for $400,077.77. The school was demolished in 1961, and the Robert Meyer Hotel, later named the Kahler Plaza Inn, was erected on the site. In 1973, Harry Helmsley bought it and added it to his chain of Harley hotels. The Harley went into a slow decline under the stewardship of Helmsley's wife Leona, prompting a sort of rock & roll aesthetic to pick up where the Helmsley dynasty left off. The Sheraton eventually picked up the property and injected $9 million into shaping it up. In the early 2000s, Sheraton sold the property and it was renovated once again into a condominium called The Metropolitan.
Original 3.5 x 5.5 inch inch color postcard: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Lake Lucerne is one of two primary lakes connected with the earliest days of the city of Orlando, Florida. Along with Lake Eola, it defined one of the natural borders of the young town in the 1860s and 1870s. Lake Lucerne sits at the southern end of the Downtown Orlando area. Today Orange Avenue, the main north-south street through the city, crosses the lake on a causeway which nearly divides the lake in half. The East-West Expressway passes directly to the north. The area was one of the first areas developed with houses outside the business district and continues to be one of the jewels of Orlando's park system. The postcard shows two homes, one of which (on the left) is the Dr. Phillips House which was built in 1893 and is currently on the National Register of Historic Places.
Original 5.5 x 3.5 inch color postcard by E. C. Kropp Company: E. C. Kropp Company, Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Postcard, posted in 1951, showing the Sperry Fountain on the southern shore of Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The fountain was named in honor of Frank Sperry, a mayor of Orlando. Lake Eola and the surrounding park are one of the unusual features that sets the city of Orlando apart from other places. From its earliest days, Downtown Orlando was situated on the west side of the lake. As the town grew into a city, Lake Eola continued to be a focal point for the inhabitants, who used it for bathing, swimming and fishing, while on its shores people picnicked, listened to concerts and religious services. Much of the land around Lake Eola was donated to Orlando by Jacob Summerlin who designated that it be a public park. It has remained one ever since. The rest of the park land was donated by the Musselwhite Family and Mayor Frank Sperry. Once Frank Sperry had settled in Orlando, he started the South Florida Foundry and Machine Works, which developed into a large enterprise and Orlando's first real industry. Sperry was active in the business for a number of years, but sold out his interest because of failing health. He also began to have a great interest in the growing of citrus in the county. He served as mayor of Orlando and was also a member of the Park Commission. In 1913, while serving with the Park Commission, he donated the final piece of land on Lake Eola that completed a ring around the lake. On that land, he donated $2,000 to place a fountain that stands to this day and bears his name as a reminder of his generosity. The fountain, made of wrought iron was described as a "large acanthus leaf with a duck base surmounted by a bittern set in an octagonal masonry basin with eight vases." At the base of the fountain there is a plaque with the following statement: "This fountain donated by Frank E. Sperry, Mayor 1914 - 1916."
First Presbyterian Church of Orlando Postcard
Postcard showing the First Presbyterian Church of Orlando, formerly located at 106 East Church Street. The First Presbyterian Church of Orlando was organized in 1876. Its first pastor was Reverend Henry Keigwin. It first congregated in the Union Free Church as well as a room in the courthouse. From 1884 to 1887,the congregation met in a church on west Central Avenue. When that church was lost in a fire, they chose to move to the east side of town. The church purchased the property bounded by Church Street, Jackson Street, Magnolia Avenue, and Rosalind Avenue in 1889 and still remains there as of 2011. The building was constructed in 1889 in the Carpenters Gothic Style. In 1902, the Congregational Church of Orlando merged with the First Presbyterian Church. In 1912, the sanctuary was enlarged to seat one thousand congregants. A second tower was added at that time as well. In 1914-1915, a major renovation was undertaken that completely changed the look of the building. The congregation added stained glass windows and the church was covered with stucco. It was changed from a traditional Gothic Style to the newer Spanish Colonial Style with white stucco, curved arches instead of Gothic, pointed features, and the original peaked roofs were hidden with the use of curvilinear elements. The stained glass windows, which were designed and made by the Jacoby Art Glass Company of St. Louis, were preserved after the building was demolished in 1958 and are stored in the Heritage Center at the church and in the Meditation Room at Westminster Towers. Murray S. King served as the remodeling architect and Frank Meyers was the contractor.
Original 3.5 x 5.5 inch color postcard: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
First Methodist Church of Orlando Postcard
Postcard showing the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Orlando, formerly located at 142 East Jackson Street. The building was constructed in 1913 in Greek Classical Revival style with yellow brick. The building cost $50,000 to construct. The sanctuary was remodeled in 1942 and the church built several additional buildings throughout the years: Wesley Hall was built in 1922, Ashbury Hall was built in 1949, and the Ledbetter Building was built in 1956. The congregation was founded in Orlando in 1881 and was renamed the First United Methodist Church of Orlando in the 1950s.
First United Methodist Church, Orlando, Florida
First Baptist Church of Orlando Postcard
Postcard showing the First Baptist Church of Orlando, formerly located at 100 East Pine Street. The building was constructed in 1915 and designed by J. E. Greene in the Greek Revival Style. The building was demolished circa 1955 and the site is currently occupied by the Downtown Baptist Church (formally the First Baptist Church). The name change came about after the growth of the church spurred the decision to divide the congregation and build new facilities off of John Young Parkway, southwest of Downtown Orlando. The new church kept the name First Baptist Church while the original congregation took the name Downtown Baptist Church. This was the second Baptist church building on the site starting in the 1880s. The original church was called the Bethel Baptist Church and was founded in 1871.
Postcard showing the Dickson-Azalea Park, owned by the City of Orlando. The park is located south of Robinson Street, north of Central Boulevard, and west of Rosearden Drive. Fern Creek runs through the park, which drains into Mayor Carl T. Langford Park located directly south of Dickson-Azalea. The park is intersected by Washington Street. Washington Street goes over the park with a early white concrete bridge, one of the landmarks of downtown Orlando. Much of Dickson-Azalea Park is below the street surface as if follows the banks of Fern Creek. The park is a garden with mostly native plants and Fern Creek is crossed by several paths and foot bridges.
Original 5.5 x 3.5 inch color postcard by Tichnor Quality Views, 1938: Orange News Company, Orlando, Florida: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Postcard showing the Angebilt Hotel, located at 37 North Orange Avenue, was constructed between 1921 and 1923. Plans to build the hotel were announced in June of 1921 and construction cost $1 million. Florida's first registered architect, Murray S. King designed the building in the twentieth century commercial story, complete with eleven stories and 240 hotel rooms. The hotel opened on March 14, 1923. The original owner was Joseph Fenner Ange, who moved to Orlando in 1913 from Martin County, North Carolina. After two months of the building's opening, Ange sold his interest in the hotel. In November 1924, a group of Orlando businessmen purchased the hotel for $1.25 million. Since its opening, the building housed the Angebilt Hotel, the Bank of Orange and Trust Company, and the offices for two radio stations including WDBO ("Way Down By Orlando"), which was the first regular radio station in Orlando. As of 2010, it also holds business offices and two restaurants.
Original 3.5 x 5.5 inch color postcard by Genuine Curteich-Chicago: Orange News Company, Orlando, Florida: Private Collection of Thomas Cook.
Westside Grammar Elementary School Fourth Grade Class, 1963-1964
Lucile Campbell's fourth grade class at Westside Grammar Elementary School during the 1963-1964 school year. Freeman E. Baggett was the principal for that school year. Sanford High School was originally established at 301 West Seventh Street in 1902. The building was designed by W.G. Talley in the Romanesque revival style. Due to an increasing student population, a new school building was constructed on Sanford Avenue in 1911. The original building on Seventh Street served as Westside Grammar Elementary School, which was later renamed Sanford Grammar School. In 1984, the building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places and converted into the Student Museum. The building reopened as the University of Central Florida's Public History Center in 2012. In 1927, a high school campus was designed by Elton J. Moughton in the Mediterranean revival style and constructed at 1700 French Avenue. The school reopened on January 10 and was renamed Seminole High School. In 1960, the high school moved to a new campus at 2701 Ridgewood Avenue and the former building on French Avenue was converted to Sanford Junior High School, which was later renamed Sanford Middle School. The old building was demolished in the summer of 1991 and replaced by a $5.77 million school complex. As of 2013, Seminole High School offers various Advanced Placement courses, the Academy for Health Careers, and the International Baccalaureate Programme for students.
Original 9.5 x 13 inch black and white photograph: Coursen Studio, Daytona Beach, Florida: item SM-200-567, UCF Public History Center, Sanford, Florida.
Westside Grammar Elementary School, Sanford, Florida
Sanford Junior High School Graduating Class, 1936-1937
Sanford Junior High School graduating class of 1936-1937. Sanford High School was originally established at 301 West Seventh Street in 1902. Due to an increasing student population, a new school building was constructed on the corner of East Ninth Street and South Palmetto Avenue in 1911. The original building on Seventh Street served as Westside Grammar Elementary School, which was later renamed Sanford Grammar School. In 1927, a high school campus was designed by Elton J. Moughton in the Mediterranean revival style and constructed at 1700 French Avenue. Sanford Junior High School was founded at the Palmetto and Ninth Street location, while the high school reopened on January 10 and was renamed Seminole High School. In 1960, the high school moved to a new campus at 2701 Ridgewood Avenue and the former building on French Avenue was converted to Sanford Junior High School, which was later renamed Sanford Middle School.
Original 8 x 10 inch black and white photograph: item SM-104-008, UCF Public History Center, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford Junior High School, Sanford, Florida
Sanford Grammar School Fifth Grade Class, 1921-1922
Ruth Kanner's fifth grade class at Sanford Grammar School during the 1921-1922 school year. Clara Millen was the school principal during that year and this class would go on to be Seminole High School's graduating class of 1929. Sanford High School was originally established at 301 West Seventh Street in 1902. The building was designed by W.G. Talley in the Romanesque revival style. Due to an increasing student population, a new school building was constructed on Sanford Avenue in 1911. The original building on Seventh Street served as Westside Grammar Elementary School, which was later renamed Sanford Grammar School. In 1984, the building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places and converted into the Student Museum. The building reopened as the University of Central Florida's Public History Center in 2012. In 1927, a high school campus was designed by Elton J. Moughton in the Mediterranean revival style and constructed at 1700 French Avenue. The school reopened on January 10 and was renamed Seminole High School. In 1960, the high school moved to a new campus at 2701 Ridgewood Avenue and the former building on French Avenue was converted to Sanford Junior High School, which was later renamed Sanford Middle School. The old building was demolished in the summer of 1991 and replaced by a $5.77 million school complex. As of 2013, Seminole High School offers various Advanced Placement courses, the Academy for Health Careers, and the International Baccalaureate Programme for students.
Original 7.5 x 9.5 inch black and white photograph: item SM-200-564, UCF Public History Center, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford Grammar School, Sanford, Florida
The historic marker for Lady Liberty at Seminole Big Tree Park in 2006. The "companion tree" for The Senator. Lady Liberty is 89 feet high, 10 feet in diameter, and approximately 2,000 years old. Big Tree Park is located at 761 General Hutchinson Parkway in Longwood, Florida. The park lies off of U.S. 17-92, south of Sanford in a swampy, mainly undeveloped area. The park's focal points are two ancient and giant bald cypress trees. The largest is known as the Senator; the other is known as the Senator's Brother. The two trees are possibly named in honor of M. O. Overstreet, a Florida state senator who donated the surrounding land to Seminole County in 1951, although they had their current names as early as the 1920s. The trees were a popular tourist attraction from the 1880s onward. In 1929, former President Calvin Coolidge and his wife, who were frequent visitors to Mt. Dora, visited the trees and dedicated them with a bronze plaque. The plaque was stolen in 1945. Both trees are extremely old and their age is typically given at 3,500 years. The Senator was believed to be the largest bald cypress in Florida; however, questions have been raised concerning the definition of "largest." It appears today that the Senator reigns as the cypress with the largest volume, the total amount of wood above ground. The current measurements may make it the largest bald cypress in the United States. As of 2011, the tree's height has been measured around 118 feet tall. It has been said that prior to the 1928 hurricane, it stood as tall as 160 feet. The Senator was destroyed by fire on January 16, 2012.
Original color digital image by Thomas Cook, May 18, 2006.
RICHES of Central Florida
Seminole Big Tree Park, Longwood, Florida
Lady Liberty at Seminole Big Tree Park in 2006. The "companion tree" for The Senator. Lady Liberty is 89 feet high, 10 feet in diameter, and approximately 2,000 years old. Big Tree Park is located at 761 General Hutchinson Parkway in Longwood, Florida. The park lies off of U.S. 17-92, south of Sanford in a swampy, mainly undeveloped area. The park's focal points are two ancient and giant bald cypress trees. The largest is known as the Senator; the other is known as the Senator's Brother. The two trees are possibly named in honor of M. O. Overstreet, a Florida state senator who donated the surrounding land to Seminole County in 1951, although they had their current names as early as the 1920s. The trees were a popular tourist attraction from the 1880s onward. In 1929, former President Calvin Coolidge and his wife, who were frequent visitors to Mt. Dora, visited the trees and dedicated them with a bronze plaque. The plaque was stolen in 1945. Both trees are extremely old and their age is typically given at 3,500 years. The Senator was believed to be the largest bald cypress in Florida; however, questions have been raised concerning the definition of "largest." It appears today that the Senator reigns as the cypress with the largest volume, the total amount of wood above ground. The current measurements may make it the largest bald cypress in the United States. As of 2011, the tree's height has been measured around 118 feet tall. It has been said that prior to the 1928 hurricane, it stood as tall as 160 feet. The Senator was destroyed by fire on January 16, 2012.
Memorandum by Chase & Company (April 8, 1924)
An original memorandum written by representatives from Chase & Company. The memo highlights issues that the Florida Citrus Exchange experienced during the 1923-1924 season, including competition between the citrus industries in California and Florida, issues with color-added products, and establishing market regulations for the citrus industry. Chase & Company was established in 1884. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original memorandum by Chase & Company, April 8, 1924: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 3, folder 13.54, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Chase & Company Office, Jacksonville, Florida
Letter from Sydney Octavius Chase, Jr., to Sydney Octavius Chase, Sr. and Joshua Coffin Chase (June 13, 1933)
An original letter of correspondence written by Sydney Octavius Chase, Jr. to Sydney Octavius Chase, Sr. and Joshua Coffin Chase. The letter summarizes a meeting that Sydney, Jr. attended relating to the marketing and selling of citrus products throughout the United States. The marketing strategies described throughout the meeting pertained not only to the state of Florida, but to other farmers and growers throughout the nation. Techniques included the overseeing of shipments to different markets by a government inspector and the use of an innovative teletype machine. Between the years of 1932 and 1933, growers in the Florida citrus industry faced controversy in attempting to regulate the shipment and selling of its products. Chase & Company was established in 1884. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original letter from Sydney Octavius Chase, Jr., to Sydney Octavius Chase, Sr. and Joshua Coffin Chase, June 13, 1933: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 3, folder 13.49, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Chase & Company Office, Sanford, Florida
Letter from Joshua Coffin Chase to Sydney Octavius Chase (October 19, 1934)
An original letter of correspondence written by Joshua Coffin Chase to his father and Chase & Company business partner, Sydney Octavius Chase. The letter discusses a meeting Joshua attended in Lakeland about the specifics on the proposed Federal Marketing Agreement on citrus and nationally standardized shipping rates. Chase participated in a meeting where citrus growers identified the production and merchandising issues they faced when selling grapefruit. Chase & Company was established in 1884. The company sold insurance and later invested in storage facilities and fertilizer sales. Chase & Company was known mainly for its agricultural interests and maintained a series of citrus groves throughout Central Florida. The company was based out of Sanford and became one of the city's largest employers into the early twentieth century.
Original letter from Joshua Coffin Chase to Sydney Octavius Chase, October 19, 1934: Chase Collection (MS 14), box 3, folder 13.49, Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Chase & Company Office, Orlando, Florida
History of the Sanford State Farmers' Market, as written by local resident Mary Leffler Long in the 1950s. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Original manuscript: Long, Mary Leffler. Sanford on the St. John's, page 155-156: Sanford Museum, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford State Farmers' Market, Sanford, Florida
Federal Emergency Relief Administration (U.S.)
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on the planned construction of the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1934. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "The New Market." The Sanford Herald, June 14, 1934: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
The Sanford Herald
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on the fitting ceremonies of the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1934. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "The Farmers' Market." The Sanford Herald, December, 18, 1934: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
The Sanford State Farmers' Market in the 1930s. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Print reproduction of original black and white photograph: Greater Sanford Chamber of Commerce, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford Historical Society, Inc.
Sanford State Farmers' Market Restaurant
The Sanford State Farmers' Market restaurant in 2011. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Original color digital image by Laura Cepero, July 3, 2011.
Sanford State Farmer's Market Building Unit 5
Historic preservation--Florida--Planning
Drawing of the floorplan of Building Unit 5 of the Sanford State Farmers' Market in the 1990s. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Original drawing: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford State Farmer's Market: Building Unit 5 Floorplan
Floorplan for Building Unit 5 of the Sanford State Farmers' Market in the 1990s. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Original floorplan: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Aerial View of Sanford State Farmers' Market After 1957 Fire
Aerial view of the Sanford State Farmers' Market after being destroyed by a fire in April of 1957. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Reprint of original black and white photograph, 1957.
Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1934. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Reprint of original black and white photograph, 1934.
Sanford Farmers Market is Third Largest in State: Annual Business is Around $700,000 in Florida Products
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on the Sanford State Farmers Market, which is the oldest of its kind in the state of Florida and was the third largest in 1941. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "Sanford Farmers Market is Third Largest in State: Annual Business is Around $700,000 in Florida Products." The Sanford Herald, October 27, 1941, page 2: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Newspaper article in the Florida Grower on the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1940. The article also discusses other features of Central Florida. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "Celery Capital." Florida Grower, May 1940, pages 6 and 12: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
American Fruit Grower Publishing Company
Papworth Tenders C of C Resignation from Market Body
Newspaper rticle on the resignation of Harry M. Papworth in 1936, the Seminole Chamber of Commerce representative on the Controlling Committee of the State Market. Papworth was a major figure in the success of the farmers' market. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry M. Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "Papworth Tenders C of C Resignation from Market Body." July 16, 1936: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Papworth Again Named to Head Market's Board: Two are Re-Elected to Advisory Body, Lehman Reports
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on Harry M. Papworth's re-election to the Sanford State Farmers' Market Advisory Board in 1939. Papworth was a major figure in the success of the farmers market. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "Papworth Again Named to Head Market's Board: Two are Re-Elected to Advisory Body, Lehman Reports." The Sanford Herald: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Notables to Be Here for Dedication: Public Urged to Join High State Officers in Ceremonies Set for 2:30 Tomorrow
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on the planned dedication of the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1934. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "Notables to Be Here for Dedication: Public Urged to Join High State Officers in Ceremonies Set for 2:30 Tomorrow." The Sanford Herald, No. 42, December 17, 1934>, pages 1-2: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Nearly 50 of 108 Stalls at Farmers' Market Already Have Been Rented
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on the leasing of nearly half of the stall at the Sanford State Farmers' Market within days of opening. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "Nearly 50 of 108 Stalls at Farmers' Market Already Have Been Rented." The Sanford Herald, December 14, 1934, pages 1 and 5: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford State Farmers' Market Mezzanine Office/Storage Floorplan
floorplan of the mezzanine office/storage for the Sanford State Farmers' Market drawn in the 1990s. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original floorplan: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Market to Be Ready for Use This Fall: Better Facility to Be Built
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on plans to rebuild the Sanford State Farmers' Market after it was burned down in a fire in 1957. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Microfilm of original newspaper article: "Market to Be Ready For Use This Fall: Better Facility to Be Built." The Sanford Herald, April 17, 1957: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford State Farmers' Market Retail Facility
The Sanford State Farmers' Market retail facility in 2011. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Original color digital image by Laura Cepero, June 9, 2011.
FERA Will Furnish Labor, Materials to Build Market Here: Immediate Construction of $75,000 Plant Authorized at Meeting Today
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald detailing the Federal Emergency Relief Administration's plans to begin construction of the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1934. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "FERA Will Furnish Labor, Materials to Build Market Here: Immediate Construction of $75,000 Plant Authorized at Meeting Today." The Sanford Herald, June 11, 1934: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Farmers Market to Be Immediately Rebuilt; Cabinet Meets Today
Microfilm of original newspaper article: "Farmers Market to Be Immediately Rebuilt; Cabinet Meets Today." The Sanford Herald, April 14, 1957: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Farmers' Market Officially Opens for Transactions: Growers Invited To Use Building Free Until About Jan. 15
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on the opening of the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1934. Commissioner Mayo opened the building for free use by growers until January 15, 1935. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Microfilm of original newspaper article: "Farmers' Market Officially Opens for Transactions." The Sanford Herald, No. 44, December 19, 1934: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Newspaper article, written for the The Sanford Herald in 1969, on the history and business of the Sanford State Farmers' Market. Located at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Microfilm of original newspaper article: "Farmers Market is 'Big Business'." The Sanford Herald, July 29, 1969: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Newspaper article on three construction companies' contract bids to rebuild the Sanford State Farmers' Market after it was destroyed by fire in 1957. Bids ranged from approximately $209,000 to $214,000. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Microfilm of original newspaper article: "Farmers' Market Bids Open Today": State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on the retirement of Edith Dutton in 1968, secretary to the manager of the Sanford State Farmers' Market, after 28 years of service. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Microfilm of original newspaper article: "Farmers' Market Aide Retires." The Sanford Herald, September 4, 1968: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Explosions Rock City: Flames Visible 6 Miles Away
Newspaper article in the The Sanford Herald on the fire that burned down the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1957. Hundreds of gallons of water were used to put the fire out and damages were estimated at $2.5 million. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Microfilm reproduction of original newspaper article: "Explosions Rock City; Flames Visible 6 Miles Away." The Sanford Herald, April 4, 1957: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Dorner Urges Merchants to Help Agriculture Club Put Over Plan to Build Market
Newspaper article in The Sanford Herald on F. F. Dorner's, the president of the Seminole Agriculture Club, urging towards merchants and businessmen to support Federal Emergency Relief Administration's (FERA) plan to build the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1934. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. FERA authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "Dorner Urges Merchant to Help Agriculture Club Put Over Plan to Build Market." The Sanford Herald No. 199, June 13, 1934: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Letter from Cecil A. Tucker II to George Percy (May 15, 1991)
Letter from Cecil A. Tucker II, president of the Seminole County Historical Society, to George Percy, director of the Division of Historical Services, in support of the restoration and preservation of the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1991. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Original letter from Cecil A. Tucker II to George Percy, May 15, 1991: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida
Division of Historical Resources, Tallahassee, Florida
Newspaper article in the Sanford Herald on the City of Sanford's donation of land to the State Marketing Board to construct the Sanford State Farmers' Market in 1934. The tract of land was in a desirable location due to its proximity to both east and west farms, as well as its location near French Avenue. The Sanford State Farmers' Market, at 1300 South French Avenue, was founded in 1934 in order to provide a central location in which farmers would sell their produce directly to consumers. The idea for the Sanford State Farmers' Market was devised by Fred Dorner and Gus Schmach, both members of the Seminole Agricultural Club. Sanford Chamber of Commerce president Harry Papworth also contributed to the development of the market. The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) authorized construction plans on June 11, 1934. On June 20, 1934, the City of Sanford donated a portion of the Alex V. French properties to the State Marketing Board, which selected the northwest corner of French Avenue and Thirteenth Street. The board approved the installation of telegraph and telephone equipment, as well as a three-pump filling station. The Sanford State Farmer's Market opened on December 18, 1934. By 1939, the Farmers' Market was bringing a total volume of business of $627,065.81. In 1941, business volume reached over $700,000. On April 4, 1957, a fire destroyed the building and caused damages estimated at $2.5 million. Reconstruction began almost immediately and the Farmers' Market was expected to re-open by the fall of 1957. In 1991, plans were created to restore, preserve, and convert the citrus packing house into a museum.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: "City Donates 20-Acre Tract for Market." The Sanford Herald, June 20, 1934: State Farmers' Market Collection, Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
The Helen Stairs Theatre after restoration in 2000. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Original black and white photograph, 2000.
Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center Ticket Booth
The ticket booth at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in 2011. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center Stage
The theater stage of the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in 2011. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, Sanford, Florida
Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center Lobby
The lobby of the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in 2011. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 2011
The Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, located at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Downtown Sanford, Florida in 2011. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Original color digital image by Laura Cepero, July 9, 2011.
Stage Curtain at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center
The stage curtain at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in 2011. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
An original engraving at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in 2011. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Original Ladder at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center
An original ladder backstage at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in 2011. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Original cornerstonefor the Milane Theatre, which was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theater and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Historic Preservation Award for the Helen Stairs Theatre
Historic sites--Conservation and restoration--Florida
The Sanford Historic Trust's Historic Preservation Award presented to the Helen Stairs Theatre in 2000. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Balcony at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center
The theater balcony at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in 2011. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Stage Entrance at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center
The current stage entrance of the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, which was formerly the segregated colored entrance at the Milane Theatre and later the Ritz Theater. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Audience Seating Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center
The theater at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in 2011. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theater and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Original color digital images by Laura Cepero, June 9, 2011.
The former Ritz Theater building in 1989. Originally the Milane Theatre, the building was constructed at 203 South Magnolia Avenue in Sanford, the former location of the Star Theatre, an abandoned movie house. Scroggs and Ewing, architects from Georgia, prepared the plans for the Milane. The name of the new theater was derived from the combination of the presidents of the Milane Amusement Company president and vice president: Frank L. Miller and Edward F. Lane. The Milane opened in July of 1923 and seated 823 patrons. In 1933, the Milane was sold to Frank and Stella Evans, investors from Lake Mary, Florida. The new owners renamed their business the Ritz Theatre and held the property until the 1990s. However, the Ritz struggled financially in the 1960s and closed in 1978 due to failure to compete with the new multiplex theaters. The building remained vacant until 1984, when it reopened as the Showtime Cantina. The Showtime Cantina closed in 1988 and remained vacant and in decay. In the mid-1990s, Ritz Community Theater Projects, Inc. acquired the property and began rehabilitation in 1998. On May 6, 2000, the theater reopened as the Helen Stairs Theatre in honor of the citizen who led the restoration project, Helen Stairs. The following year, the location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, additional renovations were completed at the theater was renamed the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in honor of the Wayne Densch Charitable Trust Fund for contributing to the renovations fund.
Photocopy of reprinted black and white photograph, 1989: Orlando Business Journal, December 10, 1999: Cities/Towns-Sanford Collection, Orange County Regional History Center, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando Business Journal