Music--New York (State)--New York--20th century
A color photograph of Jesse Cutler with his friend and record producer, Joe Renzetti, who won an Academy Award for Best Movie Musical Adaptation for The Buddy Holly Story. Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
1 original color photograph, 1977: Personal Collection of Jesse Cutler.
RICHES
A black and white photograph of a 13 year old Jesse Cutler on the Joe Franklin Show in New York City in 1964. Among the two men and two men seated with Cutler is Fannie Flagg, the author of Fried Green Tomatoes". On the back of the photograph is stamped text that says, "PLEASE CREDIT PHOTO TO AL NAIDOFF 1667 GRAND AVENUE BRONX, N.Y. 10053 TR 2 - 4627. NEG # A.S.M.P. MEMBER." A handwritten post it note is attached as well. Initially called the Executives, the band was formed in 1963 by Jesse Cutler (then known as Lou London), Ricky Shutter and Steve Wagner. The band signed to Mercury Records in 1964, where they recorded a hit single called "Everybody Do the Duck". That same year, the band appeared as guests on the Joe Franklin Show, Wonderama, The Clay Cole Show, American Bandstand, Hullaballoo and Shindig. Over the next two years they performed at charity events and private celebrity parties all over Long Island and New York City. They played in the company of the Rolling Stones, Sammy Davis Jr., Barbra Streisand, Anthony Newley, Joan Collins and the Beatles. The group broke up in 1966. Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
1 original black and white photograph, 1964: Personal Collection of Jesse Cutler.
A color photograph of Jesse Cutler and Luisa Cira Castro Netto, also known as Louisa Moritz, who was an actress best known for her role in the film One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and the television show Love, American Style. The photograph was taken in 1981. Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
1 original color photograph, 1981: Personal Collection of Jesse Cutler.
Jesse Cutler, Stevie Wonder and Unidentified Women at West Hollywood Party
Three color Polaroid photographs of Jesse Cutler and Stevland Hardaway Morris, also known as Stevie Wonder, with unidentified women at a West Hollywood party in 1982. Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
3 original color photographs, 1982: Personal Collection of Jesse Cutler.
Sumner Hutcheson III and Pamela Hutcheson
A black and white photograph of siblings Sumner Hutcheson III and Pamela Hutcheson.
1 original black and white photograph: Personal Collection of Sumner Hutcheson III.
Sumner Hutcheson III on the 1967 Miami Jackson High School Swim Team
A black and white photograph of Sumner Hutcheson III swimming in a pool for the 1967 Miami Jackson High School swim team.
Miami Jackson Senior High School, Miami, Florida
Hawtensie Joyner and Sumner Hutcheson, Jr.
Black and white photograph of Hawtensie Joyner and Sumner Hutcheson, Jr. after their marriage in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on April 1, 1935. Joyner was born on June 12, 1912, in Fitzgerald, Georgia, and Hutcheson was born on on November 25, 1905, in Key West, Florida.
1 original black and white photograph, 1935: Personal Collection of Sumner Hutcheson III.
State Champions Bethune-Cookman Football Team
Football -- Florida -- Daytona Beach -- Photographs
A colorized photograph of Bethune-Cookman's 1925 football team. The team won the state championship that year. A notable member is Sumner "Skinner" Hutcheson, Jr.
1 colorized photograph, 1925: Personal Collection of Sumner Hutcheson III.
Two colorized photographs of Bethune-Cookman's first football team in 1923. A notable member is Sumner "Skinner" Hutcheson, Jr. The team consisted of 15 students and was coached by Leon C. James.
2 colorized photographs, 1923: Personal Collection of Sumner Hutcheson III.
A colorized photograph of the family home of Sumner Hutcheson III, located in the Paradise section of the Brownsville neighborhood in Miami-Dade County. Brownsville is a community known for its impact on the civil rights movement as a gathering place for leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and Muhammad Ali.
1 original colorized photograph, 2022: Personal Collection of Sumner Hutcheson III.
Sumner Hutcheson III at the Unveiling of the Mary McLeod Bethune Statue at Daytona Beach
A color photograph of Sumner Hutcheson III at the Unveiling of the Mary McLeod Bethune Statue at Daytona Beach, Florida, on August 18th, 2022. The 13-foot tall bronze sculpture is 829-pounds and the granite pedestal base is 14,050-pounds. It was was created by Puerto Rican native Master Sculptor Nilda M. Comas.
1 original color photograph, 2022: Personal Collection of Sumner Hutcheson III.
Sumner Hutcheson III at the Unveiling of the Mary McLeod Bethune Statue at the United States Capitol
National Statuary Hall (United States Capitol, Washington, D.C.)
A color photograph of Sumner Hutcheson III at the Unveiling of the Mary McLeod Bethune Statue at the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. on July 13th, 2022. The statue, created by Nilda Comas, is made of Italian Carrara marble and was given to the National Statuary Hall Collection by Florida in 2022. Bethune is the first African American represented in the National Statuary Hall Collection. The statue replaced Confederate General Edmund Kirby Smith's statue.
National Statuary Hall, United States Capitol, Washington, D.C.
An oral history interview of Curtis Joshua Rayam Jr. The interview was conducted by Eric Thompson at the Melrose Center at the Orlando Public Library in Orlando, Florida, on March 5, 2025. Rayam, born February 4, 1951, is a native of the Parramore neighborhood in Orlando and a successful opera and concert singer. Some of the topics covered include his family's move to Orlando in search of better educational opportunities, his experiences growing up in Parramore, and the influence of teachers and mentors such as Masie Cosby and Jessie B. Demps Smith. Rayam shares memories of attending Callahan Elementary School and Jones High School and reflects on the role that educators played in shaping his musical ambitions. He describes community life centered around churches such as Mt. Olive AME Church and Saint Mark AME Church and remembers the vibrant cultural and commercial activity in Parramore. He mentions streets such as Green Street, Jackson Street, Jefferson Street, and Orange Avenue, as well as businesses like Pyramid Cleaners and the Carver and Lincoln Theaters. He reflects on community figures including Chief Wilson, who attended the 1964 New York World’s Fair, as well as other key figures like Queenie Powell, Augusta Rogers, Alma Polope, and Georgia Wallace. He also discusses the work of Jessie B. Demps Smith at the Magnolia School. Rayam recalls his later studies at the University of Miami, the legacy of segregation, the importance of entrepreneurship, and the changes he has witnessed in Parramore over the decades, including poverty and homelessness.
Raya, Jr., Curtis. Interviewed by Eric Thompson, March 25, 2025. Audio record available. RICHES, Orlando, Florida.
A postcard with a photo of Grant Street, looking South, in Fitzgerald, Georgia. The dirt road has business buildings on either side. Men are standing outside many of the buildings. Early automobiles are parked outside. On the right side of the street is a drug store. On the photo side of the card, a handwritten message reads, "Dear Sis, Rec'd but, O.K. Many thanks for all. Mamma, Jesse, and I go to Savannah tomorrow. More later. Expect to stay 5 days. With love, Cara." On the back of the postcard is the name of the addressee in handwriting, to Mrs. Della Davis of Birmingham, Alabama. In the bottom left corner is a note of "Box 473". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 black and white postcard: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
Main Street, Fitzgerald, Georgia, Postcard
Postcard of Main Street, looking South, in Fitzgerald, Georgia. The dirt road has houses on each side, with power lines on either side in front of the houses. On the back of the postcard is the name Mrs. N. B. Smith, handwritten in blue ink. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard with a scene of Pine Street, looking East, in Fitzgerald, Georgia. The dirt road is lined with business buildings. Horse-drawn buggies are parked outside the businesses. On the left side of the road is the Commercial Hotel. Power line poles are on the right side of the street, indicating the town had power at this time. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Mrs. Sarah Field of Fitzgerald, Georgia. The message reads, "737 Peachtree, May 22 [28?]. Your card rec'd. Saw Mrs. C. today. We are doing all we can for Mrs. F. with God's help. Knowing His law is the only law. Let us hear how he improves. There is no hear in discouragement. Love is the only power. Lovingly, A. [...]" This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard of the Lee-Grant Hotel in Fitzgerald, Georgia. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to H. E. Bennett of "Southeastern" Bedford, Indiana. The message reads, "10-11-17 Dear Friend, Here I am, way down South, and suppose will be in Southern territory all winter. Will not be localed in any one place long at a time. Give my regards to "Smith" [...], ["Dillan"]. Best wishes to you, E. L. [Chunnley]". In the left corner of the message section of the postcard is a note saying, "Box 119 [...]". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 colored postcard: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A colorized postcard of a painting depicting a scene at Railway Station in Fitzgerald, Georgia, around 1897. The station is bustling with people and horses and buggies, bringing people to the train stop. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A colorized postcard of the Central Christian Church in Fitzgerald, Georgia. The building is still in use today, as the Faith Baptist Church. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Central Christian Church, Fitzgerald, Georgia
A postcard depicting a colorized scene of Grant Street in Fitzgerald, Georgia. Automobiles are parked along the sides of the road in front of business buildings. A man is riding his bike in the street heading north. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard of the Lee Grant Hotel in Fitzgerald, Georgia. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Miss Louise Irwin of Irwin, Virginia. The message reads, "Spend the day at this hotel and came to [Way] cross to-night […] Are having beautiful warm weather. May go to Valdosta in the morning. Am 15 miles from Jacksonville, Fla. to-night". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A. B. & A. Passenger Station Postcard
A postcard of the A.B. & A. Passenger Station in Fitzgerald, Georgia. The building was used as a stop on the railway system in the city. Today, the building is used to house the Blue and Gray Museum. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A. B. & A. Passenger Station, Fitzgerald, Georgia
A photograph of the St. James Hotel in Fitzgerald, Georgia. The St. James Hotel was built by Eliza Fox and was the first permanent hotel in the area. This photograph is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 black and white photograph: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A colorized postcard depicting a scene of a group of men and women approaching the casino in Veteran City, Florida. On the left, a streetcar is seen transporting travelers. The streetcar began running in the area in 1905, and in January of 1906, the Casino opened to accommodate passengers awaiting boats to Pass-a-Grille. The Casino quickly became a popular destination for locals and travelers alike. Veteran City was planned as a retirement community for Civil War veterans. It was incorporated as Gulfport in 1910. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A business card with a photo of the home of Capt. J. F. Chase in St. Petersburg, Florida. The card reads on the front, "Capt. J. F. Chase. Special Agent for Veteran City on the Gulf of Mexico. 5 miles from St. Petersburg by Trolley. Dealer in Real Estate of all descriptions. Orange Groves. Orange Lands". On the back of the card is a photo of J. F. Chase. and a small biography, which reads, "Capt. J. F. Chase. The founder of Veteran City. Aiide-de-Camp on Staff of Commander in Chief G.A.R., Commander of Department of Florida of the United Veterans of the Blue and Grey. Past Commander Department of Florida G.A.R. No. 1 Cannonier of the 5th Me. Battery. Received forty-eight wounds at the Battle of Gettysburg, July 2, 1863. Received a Medal of Honour from Congress for meritorious conduct at the Battle of Chancellorsville, May 3, 1863. Past Commander Kit Carson Post G.A.R. Now living at St. Petersburg, FLA." This business card is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 black and white business card: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A postcard depicting the developing town of Zephyrhills, Florida. Before the town was officially established in 1910, a man named Simon J. Temple purchased 280 acres of land in the area and named it Abbott. The land was used for farming citrus and lumber. In 1909, Captain Howard B. Jeffries, a veteran of the Civil War from Pennsylvania, purchased the land to create a settlement for Union Civil War veterans. He changed the name of the town from Abbott to Zephyrhills. The town was officially incorporated in 1914. The town continued to be a major lumbering industry into the 1920s and 1930s. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Miss Jennie [...] of Albany, NJ. At the bottom of the address section is a code of "R. F. D X 1". The message reads, "March [7]. Zephyrhills, Fla. My dear Jennie, At last I will send you a little token of life. This card shows you where I am. This is a fine day. The mocking bird has been singing all day. I am fine and hope the same for you dear. With love to all..." This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard with a picture of the home of S. R. Averill in Zephyrhills, Florida. Averill previously lived in Pennsylvania before settling in Florida. The printed text next to the photo of the home reads, "We landed here the 26th of October, 1911. Moved in our new house in January 1912
have 2 1/2 acres cleared of roots and stumps
forty rods west of city limits on a twenty acre tract
straddling a small beautiful lake. We are planting our third garden at this writing, January 1913
we are having for the table the following (Goodies): Strawberries, lettuce, onions, radishes, celery, beats, cabbage, turnips, rutabagas, tomatoes, and cucumbers. This picture was taken by a friend unbeknown to us. Excuse my shirt sleeves. House 24x24
porch 10x56 feet. We are having out after dinner chat and smoke. Member of J. A. Garfield Post No. 38, Dep't of Florida, late of Company F. 13th Pa. Vol. Cav." On the back is a handwritten message which reads, "Looks [...] different now many trees [etc.]. [...] is a snap shot we did not know it was taken until long afterwards. The [...] yard is about 125 feet-sq. [...] a few roses and many of the [...] several fruit [...] trees. [...] grape vines, bananas, tangerines, guava, kumquat, and lemon trees." This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard depicting Memorial Hall in Zephyrhills . This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard depicting the Francisco Building which houses a pharmacy Zephyrhills, Florida. The building was owned by innovator Waldo M. Francisco and was the first block structure in town in 1911. Francisco was also the first to have electricity in the town and developed a power plant for Zephyrhills. On the second story balcony, two women are standing posing for the photo. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Miss Clara Held at 329 Wood Street in Johnstown, PA. The message reads, "Zephyrhills Jan. 18, 1913. Dear Clara, We are here for the day. Will leave soon. It is a [...] 12 [mi] from San Antonio. We are well. This is drug store we shopped. Hotel across the street. Will write a little to-night. Best regards to all, G.F." This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard of Methodist Episcopal Church in Lynn Haven, Florida. The church was organized in 1911 and originally led by Rev. R.W. Burdeshaw. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten note addressed to Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. [Sleeth] at 214 N. B. St. in Arkansas City, Kansas. The message reads, "Not having heard from you since our last writing we are hoping you have decided to come to Lynn H. for the winter. [...] awaits you. Sincerly yours, Mrs. Katelyn &amp
[...]". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard with a photo of two natives on a buggy drawn by a steer and a horse. They pass a store which has a sign for ice cream in the window. In the distance behind them are houses. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard of Anderson Bayou in Lynn Haven, Florida. A small creek runs through overgrown foliage and palms with a long dock in the distance. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Willis [Emery] of North Anson, Maine. The message reads, "Dear [Brathie], I have had my papers sent to North Anson. Will you please take them from the office and keep them until we come to Maine [...] George". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting a steamboat on Bear Creek near Lynn Haven, Florida. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard with a picture of the Lynn Haven Hotel in Lynn Haven, Florida, built in 1911. The hotel was three stories high and featured large porches with views of the North Bay. The hotel was later turned into the Lynn Haven Sanitarium, which housed veteran patients being treated for illnesses. The building burned down in the late 1920s. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard with a picture of the Lynn Haven Hotel in Lynn Haven, Florida, built in 1911. The hotel was three stories high and featured large porches with views of the North Bay. The hotel was later turned into the Lynn Haven Sanitarium which housed veteran patients being treated for illnesses. The building burned down in the late 1920s. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting a scene on Florida Avenue in Lynn Haven, Florida. Business buildings line the dirt road. Early automobiles can be seen parked outside the buildings in the distance. The post office building is immediately to the left. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting a scene on Florida Avenue in Lynn Haven, Florida. Two business buildings are located on the right side of the street, while more buildings line the left side heading north. Five men stand outside the closest building on the left side, while another group of men sit in front of the right side building. A horse and buggy head north down the street. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Mrs. Edgar Bootman at 437 H St. NW in Washington, D.C. The message reads, "Dear Bessie, Arrived home safe 10 min. of 12. Now write me soon. Lucille" This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting a group celebrating Memorial Day in 1912 in Lynn Haven, Fla. One man in the center of the group holds and American flag on a pole, while four children sit on the boardwalk. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting a group of women making up the Ladies of the G.A.R., Lynn Haven chapter, standing in front of a building. One man stands within the group on the right, while two man can be seen from inside the building through a window. On the front of the postcard, written by hand, is a caption in the center, "Lynn Haven Circle No. 7 Ladies of the G.A.R". Written on the left corner is the name "Preston". The Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) was a fraternal organization of veterans of the United States Union Army, Union Navy, Marines and the United States Cutter Service who served in the American Civil War. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard with a photo of two homes being built in Lynn Haven, Florida. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message that is addressed to Mrs. Edgar Bootman at 437 H St. NW in Washington, D.C. The message reads, "Dear Bessie, Please send yoke so I can get it by Friday move. Lovingly, Lucielle" This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard with a photo of the home of Dr. George R. Maner. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message which reads, "This is a pretty place just across the street from me. There are many cute little homes here. Registered yesterday at the chamber of commerce. Attended Baptist church today. Played five hundred at Mrs. Knights Friday night. Some ladies are coming here next Friday night. It's quite a little cooler today. Went to see a cute little apartment yesterday thinking of a friend that might come down here. Love from Carrie and Harriet". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
"Godspell" 30th Anniversary Reunion 1971-2001
A program for the 30th Anniversary Reunion of the cast and crew from the musical "Godspell". The program lists the curriculum, special thanks, greeting from those that could not be in attendance, photographs, a directory with contact information, and a list of those who had passed away. On the back of the program is a note that reads, "JESSE CUTLER 'Guitarist' Original New York Company." Reunited at the September funeral of David Haskell, the original John the Baptist and Judas, the first cast of the 1971 hit decided to come together again for a happier occasion: the 30th anniversary of the Off-Broadway opening. On May 12, 2001, with composer Stephen Schwartz in attendance, the original cast of Godspell plus members of the subsequent national tours and the movie version, met together in a private celebration at the Sportsmen's' Lounge in Studio City, California. Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
Sportsmen's Lodge, Studio City, California
A playbill for the Playfare production of the musical "Godspell". The playbill lists the cast, producers, musicians, writers, director and crew. The musical numbers are also listed in order, along with the corresponding performers. According the playbill, the first performance was May 17, 1971, at The Cherry Lane Theatre in New York, New York. Jesse Cutler is listed as the electric guitar and bass guitar player in the band. Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
The Cherry Lane Theatre, New York City, New York
Jesse Cutler with the Original Cast of "Godspell" Appearing on Channel 4 NBC's "Good Morning America"
A black and white photograph of the original cast of the musical "Godspell" appearing on NBC's "Good Morning America" in 1972. The cast surrounds a picnic table that contains a cake and a large jug of wine. Jesse Cutler appears standing fourth from the right in the back row. A Post-it note on the back of the photograph reads, "JESSE CUTLER WITH THE ORIGINAL CAST OF 'GODSPELL' APPEARING ON CHANNEL 4 NBC's 'GOOD MORNING AMERICA'. 1972 70's." There is also a handwritten note on the back of the photograph that reads, "FROM GODSPELL. From Gloria Sondheim P.R. Bell Records." Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
1 original black and white photograph, 1972: Personal Collection of Jesse Cutler.
Jesse Cutler and Stephen Schwartz in Recording Studio
Three photographs of Jesse Cutler and Stephen Schwartz in a New York recording studio working on songs for the musical "Godspell". In the first photograph, Stephen Schwartz stands in front of a seated studio engineer. Jesse Cutler sits in front of three keyboards in the second photograph, and Schwartz and Cutler stand behind a seated studio engineer in the third photograph. A Post-it note on the back of the third photograph reads, "JESSE CUTLER IN N.Y. RECORDING STUDIO MAKING 'GODSPELL' WITH COMPOSER AND 2 TIME ACADEMY AWARD WINNTER STPEHEN SCHWARTZ. 1972." Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
3 original photographs, 1972: Personal Collection of Jesse Cutler.
Jesse Cutler with "Murray the K" Kauffman at a Rolling Stones Private Party
Jesse Cutler with Murray Kauffman, also known as "Murray the K", at a private party by the band, the Rolling Stones, in 1964. Cutler was invited to attend the party with his band, The Executives. "Murray the K" was a New York City rock and roll impresario and disc jockey from the 1950s to the 1970s. A Post-it note on the back of the photograph reads, "JESSE CUTLER at ROLLING STONES PRIVATE PARTY AGE 13 WITH MURRAY the K KNOWN as THE 5th BEATLE 1964." Initially called the Executives, the band was formed in 1963 by Jesse Cutler (then known as Lou London), Ricky Shutter and Steve Wagner. The band signed to Mercury Records in 1964, where they recorded a hit single called "Everybody Do the Duck". That same year, the band appeared as guests on the Joe Franklin Show, Wonderama, The Clay Cole Show, American Bandstand, Hullaballoo and Shindig. Over the next two years they performed at charity events and private celebrity parties all over Long Island and New York City. They played in the company of the Rolling Stones, Sammy Davis Jr., Barbra Streisand, Anthony Newley, Joan Collins and the Beatles. The group broke up in 1966. Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
1 original photograph, 1964: Personal Collection of Jesse Cutler.
A photograph of the Young Executives performing live in concert. Initially called the Executives, the band was formed in 1963 by Jesse Cutler (then known as Lou London), Ricky Shutter and Steve Wagner. The band signed to Mercury Records in 1964, where they recorded a hit single called "Everybody Do the Duck". That same year, the band appeared as guests on the Joe Franklin Show, Wonderama, The Clay Cole Show, American Bandstand, Hullaballoo and Shindig. Over the next two years they performed at charity events and private celebrity parties all over Long Island and New York City. They played in the company of the Rolling Stones, Sammy Davis Jr., Barbra Streisand, Anthony Newley, Joan Collins and the Beatles. The group broke up in 1966. Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
1 original, ca. 1963 to 1966: Personal Collection of Jesse Cutler.
United Spanish War Veterans Building Postcard
A postcard of the United Spanish War Veterans' brick building in St. Cloud, Florida. A man is sitting in a chair against the outside pillar of the building. The building was originally built in 1910 for the city's First National Bank, but failed in 1917 when it became the People's Bank. The United Spanish War Veterans took over the building in 1934. In 1970, the building became home to the Golden Age Club. Today the building is the home of the city's Chamber of Commerce and is a historical museum. Handwritten on the bottom of the postcard is "UNITED SPANISH WAR VETERANS ST. CLOUD FLA. M1400". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting a group of people in front of the park and club house in St. Cloud, Florida. Some men are dressed in their veteran uniforms. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to R. J. Oliver at 88 Murray St. in Binghampton, New York. The message reads, "7/10/35 The ale is fair here. [Mele]". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 inch black and white postcard: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A postcard with a photo of a sugarcane plantation with grazing cattle on the edge of East Lake in St. Cloud, Florida. Hamilton Disston bought the land in the 1880s, which was originally swampland. Disston had the swamps drained and planted 1,000 acres of sugarcane along East Tohopekaliga Lake. Due to multiple winter freezes and national depression, the plantation folded by 1909, when the Grand Army of the Republic Association bought the old plantation land. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Herman [Haerleinp], Chief Gardener at the National Mil (Military) Home in Ohio. The message reads, "St. Cloud Fla 11-26-10. Dear Herman, Mrs. Woodin and I are having a lovely trip here in Florida. The climate is perfect, warm as June. We go from here to Orlando and other points early next week. Regards to all, Woodin". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Women's Club and Veterans' Memorial Library Postcard
A colorized artist rendition of the Veterans' Memorial Library in St. Cloud, Florida. Located on Massachusetts Avenue between Tenth and Eleventh Street, the library was dedicated in 1925. Today the building is used for the Women's Club. The back of the postcard includes a handwritten message addressed to Mrs. Dorothy Mac Claren at 818 Fawcett St in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. The message reads, "October 29, 1952. Dear daughter, I presume you read my letter by this time. Here is a view of one of the bldg in St. Cloud. It isn't a large place but it is a nice little town. It keeps Rae busy with the children [always] some thing doing at school &amp
etc. We are expecting Lillian (Rae's mother-in-law) on Friday. She will be surprised to see us. Will write occasionally. Regards to Jack. Mother." This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 inch color postcard: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A colorized postcard of an artist's rendition of the First Christian Church in St. Cloud, Florida. Reverend M. P. Julian, the first pastor of the church, was an early veteran settler. Born in North Carolina, Julian fought for the Union during the Civil War. He was held as a prisoner of war in Andersonville, Georgia between 1864 and 1865. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
The Seminole Pharmacy and Dale's Variety Store
A postcard with a photo of the Veterans' Memorial Library in St. Cloud, Florida. Located on Massachusetts Avenue between Tenth and Eleventh Street, the library was dedicated in 1925. Today the building is used for the Women's Club. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard depicting a colorized artist's rendition of the St. Cloud Hotel located on New York Avenue. St. Cloud built its first hotel named for the town in 1909 as a two-story structure using materials from the Disston Sugar Mill which previously occupied the land. In December of the same year, it was destroyed in a fire. The hotel was rebuilt with stone as opposed to wood shortly after the fire and was expanded to three floors instead of two. The original rebuilt hotel included wrap-around verandas, but by 1927 the verandas were removed, as can be seen in this photo. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A colorized postcard depicting a scene on Pennsylvania Avenue in St. Cloud, Florida. A line of men, a few children, and one woman stand in the dirt road for the photo. Business buildings line the street and a railroad car is in the background. Printed along the top of the postcard is the title, "Penn. Ave., St. Cloud, Florida." This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Conn's Department Store and Pennsylvania Hotel Postcard
Postcard depicting the Pennsylvania Hotel and Conn's Department Store. A sign on the side of the store markets the sale of dry goods, shoes, and furnishings. On the bottom of the postcard is printed, "Conn's Department Store and Pennsylvania Hotel, St. Cloud, Fla." Conn's Department store was owned and operated by James K. Conn, who was born in Pennsylvania and moved to St. Cloud, Florida sometime between 1910 and 1920. In 1917, the town of St. Cloud suffered a fire which engulfed business buildings and apartments along Pennsylvania Avenue. The townspeople decided to rebuild, replacing previously wooden building with concrete and brick. Conn's Department Store was one of these rebuilt buildings. The Pennsylvania Hotel was also built just after the fire in the rebuilding process. The building is now the site of the St. Cloud Twin Theater. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
New York Avenue Looking at East Lake Tohopekaliga Postcard
Postcard depicting an artist rendition overlooking New York Avenue. Along the dirt road are buildings, some businesses while other appear to be homes in the distance. The first building on the right is the building of contractor, N.F. Bass. Next to which is the Makinson store, selling hardware, furniture, and building materials. Makinson Hardware was originally a family owned store that started in Kissimmee, and opened a new location in St. Cloud. The Kissimmee store is still open today. In the distance is East Lake Tohopekaliga. Along the top of the postcard says "New York Avenue, Looking to Late, St. Cloud, Florida." On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Arthur S. Hanson at 26 [Mck] St of Haverhill, Massachusetts. The message reads, "[...] daily only so Arthur please write on a ceratin day each week so I will know [first] - what day to look for my letter. Love mother". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 inch colored postcard: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
Postcard depicting a colorized art rendition of New York Avenue. The drawing shows the street with storefront buildings along either side. The top left corner states in red "New York Avenue, St. Cloud, Fla." In a smaller black font on the bottom right corner is "M16080". On the back of the postcard is a long message that states, "St. Cloud - Fla - Oct. 29, 1915. Dear friend - Your card received in due time so kind of you to remember my birthday. I am living on borrowed time now as I have passed the three score years and ten. We are feeling the effects of a long, hot summer. The weather is delightful now and we hope to gain strength. Was sorry to hear that Mr. Reinkle was poorly, think he better come to St. Cloud and spend the Winter. Mrs. Baswell keeps about the same, he is quite poorly would not be surprised if she outlived him. Mr Lynch has some old friend living in the front-room, they are pleasant neighbors and have improved the looks of his place greatly. Wish you could all come and spend the Winter here - Accept for all our kindest regards and best wishes. Jennie Scriber" This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting a street scene in St. Cloud, Florida. There are buildings on either side of the street and people walking on the sidewalks. Horse-drawn carriages are parked on the sides of the street outside of the buildings. The back of the postcard features a purple stamp in the upper left corner that says, "A.A. MARTIN, KOZY STUDIO, ST. CLOUD, FLA." Also on the back is a handwritten message addressed to Arthur S. Hanson at 26 Mck St. of Haverhill, Massachusetts. The message reads, " [...] Penn Ave. 82 here and a fine breeze. Love Mother" This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard depicting a scene on New York Avenue in St. Cloud, Florida. Along either side of the avenue are buildings, likely homes as well as businesses. One building on the left includes the Seminole Pharmacy as well as a parlor. Men are seen standing in front of the buildings on the left side of the road. Horse drawn carriages can also be seen in front of the buildings. Running perpendicular to the avenue appears to be a railroad with a railroad car carrying supplies. Written along the bottom of the picture is, "New York Ave. Addis Photo. St. Cloud Fla." On the back of the postcard is a message addressed to Mr. J. E. Griffith at 74 Water St. in Keene New Hampshire. The message reads, "Sept. 15, 10. A year ago today there was not a house beside the hotel on this ave." New York Avenue is one of the first state-named streets in St. Cloud and now makes up the city's downtown area. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard depicting a single dirt road in a wooded area with buildings, likely homes, on either side. Four people, including a child, can be seen standing along the side of the road. Stamped along the bottom of the front of the postcard reads "Scene near St. Cloud, Fla." On the back of the postcard is a message addressed to Dr. Ira Scott of Kent, Ohio. The message reads, "St. Cloud Fla. Apr 22, 11. Dear Dr., glad to hear you and yours all got home safe and hope you will all soon be feeling better. I will try and look after your work as soon as I can get too it and will do it the very best that I can. Thanking you for the favor. I remain yours, Geo. Clark" This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Photo depicts a man sitting at a drumset in front of an American flag. Written on the kick drum is, "J.T. Burbank of the Wonder City St. Cloud Fla. Plays five drums cymbals trup't-kazoo." On the back of the photo is a printed label that says, " J.T. Burbank -- One man band with his five drums, kazoo, cymbals and trumpet. Mr. Burbank was a member of the St. Cloud GAR." Joseph Tripp Burbank was born in 1835 in Pennsylvania. Working as a baker for most of his life, he served with the Union Army during the Civil War from May 1861 to June 1864. While in the military, Burbank picked up music and continued to play in his spare time for the St. Cloud G.A.R. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 inch black and white postcard (photo?): Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A postcard showing the Pope family in front of their home in St. Cloud, Florida. The family includes Dr. Fenelon F.H. Pope, his wife, Laura, and their daughters, Edna and Gertrude. A note on the back of the postcard reads: "Dr. FFH Pope in front of his home in St. Cloud Fla. About 1910-1912. Dr. Pope was from Dalton, Ohio. And moved to the colony early." Dr. Fenelon F.H. Pope was originally from Dalton, Ohio and served in the Co. 169 in the Ohio Infantry during the Civil War. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting the completed G.A.R Memorial Hall building in St. Cloud, Florida. Handwritten on the back of the postcard is the message: "St. Cloud, Fla. August 28, 1918. Dear Frances, This is the hall where grandpa's name and regiment is carved on a brick in the entrance. Papa". The postcard is addressed to Frances Clark in Walnut, Kansas. The Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) was a fraternal organization of veterans of the United States Union Army, Union Navy, Marines and the United States Cutter Service who served in the American Civil War. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Mitchell Post National Encampment Postcard
A postcard depicting the St. Cloud Mitchell Post at the 44th National Encampment in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The front of the postcard shows men with drums and flags before or after participating in the encampment parade. The group is standing in front of a building called Lawrence's Pharmacy. The back of the postcard features handwritten notes explaining, "ST. CLOUD'S MITCHELL POST AT NATIONAL ENCAMPMENT ATLANTIC CITY 1910". At the top is also a notation number, "88.1.157". The 44th National Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic took place September 22-23, 1910 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The total attendence of the gathering was 213,901. Mitchell Post was named after the first G.A.R. veteran soldier to die after the St. Cloud colony was established. Lucius L. Mitchell, a private of the G.A.R., moved with his wife and five of their eight children to St. Cloud, Florida in 1909. He would die later that same year, and be buried in the Rose Hill Cemetary in Kissimmee, Florida. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Building of the G.A.R. Memorial Hall Postcard
A postcard depicting the construction of the G.A.R. Memorial Hall in St. Cloud, Florida. The front of the postcard features four men with a wheelbarrow standing on top of the partially-constructed building. A row of men sit on a bench on the ground in front of the building. Behind them are two rows of men standing. The back of the postcard features a purple stamp in the upper left corner that says, "A.A. MARTIN, KOZY STUDIO, ST. CLOUD, FLA." Handwritten notes say, "ST. CLOUD, FL. 95-" and "half-Built G.A.R. HALL". The Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) was a fraternal organization of veterans of the United States Union Army, Union Navy, Marines and the United States Cutter Service who served in the American Civil War. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
G.A.R. Memorial Hall, St. Cloud, Florida
An oral history interview of educator Dillard A. Gould. The interview was conducted by Dr. Connie Lester and Jessica Oldham over Zoom on August 2nd, 2022. Some of the topics include his early life and education in Oviedo and playing sports, his military service, experiencing discrimination in the United States Army, and being stationed in Germany, working for AT&T, and his thoughts on African American advancement and the Oviedo Colored School Museum.
Gould, Dillard Alan. Interviewed by Connie Lester and Jessica Oldham, August 2, 2022. Audio record available. RICHES, Orlando, Florida.
A group wields ceremonial shovels in front of the wooden steps of the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum at a groundbreaking ceremony on February 13, 2023. President Judith Dolores Smith appears in all seven photographs. A banner hangs at the top of the doors that reads, "Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, Inc. hocsmuseum.org." A brown welcome mat that reads, "Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, Inc." sits at the foot of the steps. In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
7 original color photographs: RICHES, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, Oviedo, Florida
Five ceremonial shovels rest on the wooden steps of the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum at a groundbreaking ceremony on February 13, 2023. A banner hangs at the top of the doors that reads, "Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, Inc. hocsmuseum.org." A brown welcome mat that reads, "Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, Inc." sits at the foot of the steps. In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
3 original color photographs: RICHES, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Groundbreaking Ceremony at Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum
A poster advertising the groundbreaking ceremony for the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum. The poster reads, "Groundbreaking Ceremony. You are cordially invited to join us as we celebrate the start of renovation and repair of the HOCSMUSEUM (Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum) Monday, February 13, 2023, 12:00 PM. 2170 James Drive Oviedo, Fl 32765. This venue is a place where people all over the world can visit to see the rich history of colored schools in Oviedo and the surrounding areas. 407-234-3374. hocsmuseum.org." A photograph of the museum and a gold shovel sticking out of a mound of dirt appear at the bottom. In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
1 original color poster: Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, Oviedo, Florida.
Seminole County Historic Marker for the Jamestown neighborhood. The marker stands outside the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, previously St. James AME Church, located at 2170 James Drive in Oviedo, Florida. The marker reads, "The name 'Jamestown' is a tribute to Benjamin and Esther James. The James' homesteaded about 1900 on 160 acres in the area known as 'The Woods' on the northern edge of the settlement of Gabriella. Mr. Ben James built a home and farm on some of his acreage in an area called 'The Woods.' The photograph was taken during a groundbreaking ceremony for the museum on February 13, 2023. After the hurricane of 1926, in the Miami area, where four hundred people died, Mr. Ben James sold acre lots to some of the new settlers that moved into this area. 'The Woods' had no real name so the residents began calling it 'Jamestown,' after Mr. Ben James. The first lots were sold to Bob and Flossie Wells, George and Nettie Davis, Morris J. and Margaret Williams. Other early settlers were: The Nails, Olivers, Perrys, Bryants, Evans, Brannons, Walkers, Ryans, and many more families in years to come. (Continued on other side) (Continued from other side) Rock Hill Missionary Baptist Church was the first church built in Jamestown. The church was shared by both Baptist and Methodist members, who alternated Sundays for church services, and it was a school for the children during the week. Mrs. Ethel Burney was the principal and teacher for the students in 1930. Ben James built St. James A.M.E. Methodist Church, named for him and his family in 1938. The school then moved to the St. James Church. Mrs. Louise Williams was the teacher until 1951-51, when the school was consolidated with Jackson Heights School in Oviedo. Ben James placed a corner stone on the front of the Church, which says: 7-30-38, St. James A.M.E., BEN JAMES &amp
FAMILY, REV. J.H. HOLLINS, PASTOR, REV. A.P. POSTELL, P.E.br&gt
The 'JAMESTOWN' community believes that they are blessed to have had ancestors who instilled in them, The Golden Rule." March 10, 2020. located at 2170 James Drive In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
1 original color photograph: RICHES, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Tree Stumps at the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum During Renovations
Tree stumps at the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, previously St. James AME Church, located at 2170 James Drive in Oviedo, Florida, on February 21, 2023. The two color photographs depict two tree stumps from renovations to the yard and building. In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
2 original color photographs: RICHES, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Roofers at the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum During Renovations
Roofers working on the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, previously St. James AME Church, located at 2170 James Drive in Oviedo, Florida, on February 21, 2023. The two color photographs depict the building during renovations. In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum During Renovations
The exterior of the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, previously St. James AME Church, located at 2170 James Drive in Oviedo, Florida, on February 21, 2023. The six color photographs depict the building during renovations. A blue tarp covers part of the roof. In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
6 original color photographs: RICHES, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
St. James A.M.E. Ben. James and Family Rev. J.H. Hollins Pastor 7-30-38
A stone marker at the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, previously St. James AME Church, located at 2170 James Drive in Oviedo, Florida. The marker reads, "7-30-38 St. James A.M.E. Ben. James and Family Rev. J.H. Hollins Pastor." In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
Seminole County Historic Marker for the Jamestown neighborhood. The marker stands outside the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, previously St. James AME Church, located at 2170 James Drive in Oviedo, Florida. The marker reads, "The name 'Jamestown' is a tribute to Benjamin and Esther James. The James' homesteaded about 1900 on 160 acres in the area known as 'The Woods' on the northern edge of the settlement of Gabriella. Mr. Ben James built a home and farm on some of his acreage in an area called 'The Woods.' After the hurricane of 1926, in the Miami area, where four hundred people died, Mr. Ben James sold acre lots to some of the new settlers that moved into this area. 'The Woods' had no real name so the residents began calling it 'Jamestown,' after Mr. Ben James. The first lots were sold to Bob and Flossie Wells, George and Nettie Davis, Morris J. and Margaret Williams. Other early settlers were: The Nails, Olivers, Perrys, Bryants, Evans, Brannons, Walkers, Ryans, and many more families in years to come. (Continued on other side) (Continued from other side) Rock Hill Missionary Baptist Church was the first church built in Jamestown. The church was shared by both Baptist and Methodist members, who alternated Sundays for church services, and it was a school for the children during the week. Mrs. Ethel Burney was the principal and teacher for the students in 1930. Ben James built St. James A.M.E. Methodist Church, named for him and his family in 1938. The school then moved to the St. James Church. Mrs. Louise Williams was the teacher until 1951-51, when the school was consolidated with Jackson Heights School in Oviedo. Ben James placed a corner stone on the front of the Church, which says: 7-30-38, St. James A.M.E., BEN JAMES &amp
4 original color photographs: RICHES, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Pews in the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum Before Renovations
Wooden pews from St. James AME Church on March 10, 2020, before renovations were made to convert the building into the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum. The building is located at located at 2170 James Drive in Oviedo, Florida. In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
12 original color photographs: RICHES, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Interior of Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum Before Renovations
The interior of the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, previously St. James AME Church, located at 2170 James Drive in Oviedo, Florida, on March 10, 2020. The 27 color photographs depict the building before any renovations were made. The roof shows signs of water damage, mold, broken wood and peeling paint. The bathroom sink appears broken. Some of the windows are broken or cracked, and parts of the blinds are broken. A musical organ stands next to one of the restrooms. In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
27 original color photographs: RICHES, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Exterior of Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum Before Renovations
The exterior of the Historic Oviedo Colored Schools Museum, previously St. James AME Church, located at 2170 James Drive in Oviedo, Florida, on March 10, 2020. The 23 color photographs depict the building before any renovations were made. The roof is stripped and damaged, the steps are broken, the wood on the doors is rotten and missing in parts, and some of the windows are broken or cracked. A banner hung over a set of doors says, "Historic Jamestown Colored School Museum hjcdm.org." In 2000, Gloria Godwin and Gracia Muller Miller began talking about a reunion for the Jackson Heights Elementary School, a colored school in Oviedo during segregation. Reunion Historian, Judith Smith, began to look for artifacts from that era and struggled to locate any pictures or other information. She put the word out amongst the former students, asking to borrow photographs or other materials related to the colored school. Immediately, items began to pour in, and the result was a book entitled: “A Written and Pictorial History of the Oviedo Area Colored Schools 1890-1967, Oviedo Elementary, Jackson Heights Elementary, Geneva, Wagner, Kolokee (Snowhill), Gabriella (Jamestown).” From there, the mission was born.
23 original color photographs: RICHES, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Three color promotional advertisements for Bluebird Citrus Products line of orange and grape fruit juice. The advertisements display a variety of juices of various sizes in glass bottles and cans. Bluebird brand citrus juices were manufactured and distributed by Southern Fruit Distributors, Inc., a company founded by Philip Caruso. The Bluebird juice company is currently part of Florida's Natural Food Service.
3 original color promotional advertisements: Private Collection of Judith LaRue
Southern Fruit Distributors, Inc., Orlando, Florida
A t-shirt for the band Stiff Kitten. Originally called Bulz Eye, Stiff Kitten was formed in Orlando, Florida, around 1983. The group consisted of Deryle Hughes on lead vocals, slide guitar, and harmonica
and Greg Saxonis on drums. Saxonis would be eventually be replaced by Dave Tinney and then Jeff Bonenfant. The band moved to Tampa for a brief time before returning to Orlando, eventually changing their name to Sons of Doctors, which became the name most closely associated with them. Largely a classic rock cover band during the 1980s and early 1990s, Hughes began composing music by the mid-1990s. Joe Stump joined in 1996 and contributed guitar and vocals. The group regularly performed at Orlando clubs such as Junkyard, Townsend's, Green Parrot, as well as at the Full Moon Saloon in Daytona Beach during bike weeks. They opened up the Daytona 500 on the infield on February 14, 1999. The band signed with Sony Records and recorded several original tracks, but disbanded in 1999. Deryle Hughes formed Simple Southern Boys with keyboardist Doug Bare in Orlando in 2004. He opened a recording studio called Big Shot Studios in Altamonte Springs in June 2006.
Original color digital images: Private Collection of Mick Dolan.
A t-shirt for the bar/nightclub Saint &amp
Sinners Pub. The pub is part of Bruce Rossmeyer's Destination Daytona Complex, which is an internationally recognized commercial and residential real estate complex in Ormond Beach, Florida. In addition to Saints &amp
Sinners, the complex includes Rossmeyer's Harley-Davidson showroom, several retail shops, restaurants, and a luxury hotel. The complex is a popular tourist destination, especially during Daytona's Bike Week. The Saints &amp
Sinners Pub is located at 1635 North U.S. Highway 1.
Saints & Sinners Pub, Ormond Beach, Florida
Part Two of an oral history of Jesse Cutler conducted by Geoffrey Cravero at Trevor Colbourn Hall at the University of Central Florida on February 23, 2024. Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early seventies through the late nineties, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print. Some of the topics covered include getting starstruck meeting Marvin Gaye in the R & B Room of the Shrine Auditorium at the Grammy Awards, repackaging his album and forging a relationship with Quincy Jones, putting a band together and touring the West Coast, composing new songs, beginning a new romantic relationship, and developing Disco Diet, meeting Richard Simmons, creating and distributing the Eddie Rabbitt Mask, recording with Alice Cooper’s and Aretha Franklin’s Bands, forming his childhood band, The Young Executives, being managed by his father, performing for celebrities, signing to Mercury Records, charting a single, being on television, experiencing success and the breakup of the group, attending preparatory school in Queens and becoming involved in the Broadway musical Godspell, leaving Godspell, finding a manager and the importance of management and agency to a successful music career, repackaging his music and re-releasing it, moving to Winter Park, recording an album inspired by the city, getting re-married, recording a 12-album set of music inspired by astrology and marketing it through eclectic sound pallets, advice for aspiring entertainers, running a marketing company, writing his autobiography and finding a publisher, his closing remarks and future goals.
Cutler, Jesse. Interviewed by Geoffrey Cravero, February 23, 2024. Audio record available. RICHES, Orlando, Florida.
The Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California
Highland School Preparatory, Jamaica, New York
Clipping of newspaper article "Newton Perry Has Enviable Record" published in the Atlantic Coast Line News about Newton "Newt" Perry's athletic, educational, and professional accomplishments, in September 1929. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original clipping of a newspaper article about Newton "Newt" Perry, September 1929: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida
Newton "Newt" Perry Underwater With Female Swimmer and Air Station Postcard
Underwater cinematography--Equipment and supplies
Original printed postcard showing an image of Newton "Newt" Perry underwater with a female swimmer some time between 1950 and 1970. Perry is partially seated inside a glass air supply tank. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original printed postcard with image of Newton "Newt" Perry underwater, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Photograph of a man standing in front of advertising posters on the exterior of a building some time between 1920 and 1930. One poster is for the film "Captain Fly By Night," which was released in 1922. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of man with advertising posters, ca. 1920-1930: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Photograph of two men wearing football equipment some time between 1920 and 1940. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of two football players, ca. 1920-1940: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Photograph of Newton "Newt" Perry with a sea turtle some time between 1950 and 1970. Perry is embracing the turtle, which is resting on a floating platform. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of Newton "Newt" Perry with sea turtle, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Photograph of Perry family members in swimming costumes at Hampton Springs, Florida, in 1912. On the back of the photograph is a handwritten caption that partially reads "Kate Perry" and "Augusta Lee". Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of Perry family members in swimming costumes, 1912: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Motion pictures--Production and direction
Photograph of a staged underwater footrace scene some time between 1950 and 1970. Three men crouch in a starting position on the floor of a body of water as a fourth man prepares to shoot a starting pistol. One woman appears to yell through a megaphone, and a second woman is seated at the right of the scene. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of staged underwater footrace scene, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Photograph of four men preparing to enter an underwater filming tank. Two of the men hold cameras. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of underwater filming tank, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Photograph of a staged scene of two men and two women dining underwater, seated at a table and chairs some time between 1950 and 1970. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of staged scene of two men and two women dining underwater, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Newton "Newt" Perry Diving from Platform
Photograph of Newton "Newt" Perry diving off a diving platform some time between 1950 and 1970. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of Newton "Newt" Perry diving from platform, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Photograph of one man and two women free diving underwater. An air supply tank labeled "Air Station No. 3 - 24 Ft" rests on the floor. The photograph was taken some time between 1950 and 1970 Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of underwater air station, ca. 1950-1970: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Newton "Newt" Perry, Johnny Sheffield, and Johnny Weissmuller
Photograph of Newton "Newt" Perry, Johnny Sheffield, and Johnny Weissmuller during filming of "Tarzan Finds a Son" at Silver Springs in 1938. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of Newton "Newt" Perry, Johnny Sheffield, and Johnny Weissmuller during filming of "Tarzan Finds a Son," 1938: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.