A newspaper article about the opening of the new clubhouse for the Oviedo Woman's Club (OWC), which was founded in 1906 as the Oviedo Magazine Club by seven charter members: H. B. McCall, Edith Meade, Georgia Lee Wheeler, Lillian Lee Lawton, Mattie Aulin Wheeler, Milcah Yonge, and Mary King. The first clubhouse was constructed in 1914 and also served as Oviedo's first library. In 1916, the club joined the Florida Federation of Women's Clubs (FFWC) and officially changed its name to the Oviedo Woman's Club. In 1923, the woman's club was federated under the umbrella of the General Federation of Woman's Clubs (GFWC). A new clubhouse was built in 1961 on property donated by R. L. Croom, a former member, which is located at 414 King Street. The Oviedo Woman's Club is involved in many civic projects, including the annual Great Day in the Country Arts and Crafts Festival, the Spring Fundraiser, Tasting Luncheons, and Celebrate Spring Teas.
Original newspaper article: Mikler, Virginia. "Women's Clubhouse Opening Draws 100," August 1, 1961: Private Collection of Beatrice Gestrich.
Oviedo Woman's Club
Westside Grammar Elementary School Report Card for Madge Woodcock, Fall 1913
Westside Grammar Elementary School report card for third-grader Madge Woodcock during the 1913 fall term. Students were evaluated in subjects such as arithmetic, reading, spelling, grammar, language, geography, writing, drawing, and music. Woodcock was evaluated by Clara Miller and the principal for that school year was N. J. Perkins. Sanford High School was originally established at 301 West Seventh Street in 1902. The building was designed by W. G. Talley in the Romanesque revival style. Due to an increasing student population, a new school building was constructed on Sanford Avenue in 1911. The original building on Seventh Street served as Westside Grammar Elementary School, which was later renamed Sanford Grammar School. In 1984, the building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places and converted into the Student Museum. The building reopened as the University of Central Florida's Public History Center in 2012. In 1927, a high school campus was designed by Elton J. Moughton in the Mediterranean revival style and constructed at 1700 French Avenue. The school reopened on January 10 and was renamed Seminole High School. In 1960, the high school moved to a new campus at 2701 Ridgewood Avenue and the former building on French Avenue was converted to Sanford Junior High School, which was later renamed Sanford Middle School. The old building was demolished in the summer of 1991 and replaced by a $5.77 million school complex. As of 2013, Seminole High School offers various Advanced Placement courses, the Academy for Health Careers, and the International Baccalaureate Programme for students.
Original report card by Clara Miller, 1913: Private Collection of Christine Kinlaw-Best.
Westside Grammar Elementary School, Sanford, Florida
Life's Lessons Become Wayne Woman's Message: Being Inclusive Benefits Everyone
A newspaper article about Patricia Ann Black's (1956- ) experience as the child of migrant workers Pilgrim Black (1905-2002) and Lula Mae Haynes Black (1917-2007), who got married in 1937. Patricia was born August 31, 1956, and grew up at the end of East Tenth Street in Sanford, Florida. She attended Hopper Elementary through sixth grade, Lakeview Middle School for seventh grade, Sanford Junior High School for eighth grade, Crooms High School for ninth grade, and Seminole High School through twelfth grade. She also attended school in the North Rose-Wolcott district each year while in Upsstate New York. During fourth grade, integration began and parents were given the choice to have their children to attend other schools, but Patricia chose to continue attending an all-black school until she entered seventh grade in 1968 and began attending integrated schools. In June 1973, Patricia married her first husband, Clint Holt (1955-); however, the couple quickly separated due to domestic violence and divorced around 1977. Patricia gave birth to her first child, Charmion Le'Antwinetta Holt (1974- ). She also had three other children with William Bigham Jr. (1952- ), who she was married to for 33 years: William Arthur Bigham III (1982- ), Brandon Oliver Black (1990- ), and Tempestt Teonte' Black (1992- ). Patricia currently lives in the family home built by her grandmother, Maggie Benjamin Black (ca.1870-ca.1934) on East Tenth Street in Sanford. Patricia endured weekly molestation for 11 years from age six to age seventeen and was raped at age seventeen while pregnant with Charmion. At age 29, Patricia became severely addicted to smoking cocaine. After seven years, Patricia was able to overcome her addiction and has maintained her sobriety for 21 years. She has suffered severe mental and physical damage and is still recovering today. Despite her traumatic experiences and sibling rejections, Patricia has developed a devout relationship with God. While in recovery, Patricia refocused her attention on spreading her ministry of love by becoming a foster parent, serving as the Parent Representative of the Committee for Special Education (CSE), and serving on her local school board in the North Rose-Wolcott school district. Patricia also has owned her own business making incense and importing shea butter from Africa. She also became a licensed nail technician specializing in stress-relieving pedicures. As of 2009, Patricia is retired but still maintains some involvement in her business/ministry named GIFTED.
Original newspaper article: Miller, Jim. "Life's Lessons Become Wayne Woman's Message: Being Inclusive Benefits Everyone." The Finger Lake Times, February 15, 2006: Private Collection of Patricia Ann Black.
The Finger Lake Times
Oral history of Christine Kinlaw-Best, interviewed by Mark Miller on March 2, 2013, for the UCF Public History Center's History Harvest. In the oral history, Kinlaw-Best discusses how she found information about the History Harvest, her family's attendance at the school building at 301 West Seventh Avenue since it opened in 1902 as Sanford High School, her family's report cards from the various schools that were housed in the building, what changes have been made to the building, how students were transported to the school when her grandmother attended, how children helped their parents farm when the school year ended, and the different schools in Sanford. Sanford High School was originally established at 301 West Seventh Street in 1902. The building was designed by W. G. Talley in the Romanesque revival style. Due to an increasing student population, a new school building was constructed on Sanford Avenue in 1911. The original building on Seventh Street served as Westside Grammar Elementary School, which was later renamed Sanford Grammar School. In 1984, the building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places and converted into the Student Museum. The building reopened as the University of Central Florida's Public History Center in 2012. In 1927, a high school campus was designed by Elton J. Moughton in the Mediterranean revival style and constructed at 1700 French Avenue. The school reopened on January 10 and was renamed Seminole High School. In 1960, the high school moved to a new campus at 2701 Ridgewood Avenue and the former building on French Avenue was converted to Sanford Junior High School, which was later renamed Sanford Middle School. The old building was demolished in the summer of 1991 and replaced by a $5.77 million school complex. As of 2013, Seminole High School offers various Advanced Placement courses, the Academy for Health Careers, and the International Baccalaureate Programme for students.
Kinlaw-Best, Christine. Interviewed by Mark Miller. UCF Public History Center, HAR1063414P. March 2, 2013. Video record available. UCF Public History Center, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford Grammar School, Sanford, Florida
Wheeler, Mae King Reign Over Festivities: Thousands Celebrate Oviedo Centennial
A newspaper article detailing Oviedo centennial celebrations at Oviedo High School on March 9, 1979. Senator Richard Bernard Stone was in attendance for the fesitivities and helped to crown Mae King and B. F. Wheeler Jr., manager of the Wheeler Fertilizer Plant, as Queen and King of the Centennial. The article was published in The Oviedo Outlook on March 15, 1979.
Original newspaper article: "Wheeler, Mae King Reign Over Festivities: Thousands Celebrate Oviedo Centennial." The Oviedo Outlook, March 15, 1979: Private Collection of Sue Blackwood.
Fifteenth Census Population for Cheboygan, Michigan, 1930
The Fifteenth United States census records for Cheboygan, Michigan, for 1930. The census divides the population into categories of name, age, sex, race, marital status, occupants and relation to head of house, whether the home is owned or rented, value of home or rent, whether home is a farm residence, and whether the home has a radio. It also records college attendance, literacy, birthplace and birthplace of parents, citizenship status, language spoken before coming to United States, year of immigration, occupation or business, class of worker, whether they worked the previous day, military status, and the war or expedition participated in. A notable resident listed in this record is James George Jackson (1916-2006). Born on May 22, 1916, in Cheboygan, Michigan, Jackson enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps on November 1, 1940, at the age of twenty-four. He served at several locations, including the Hawaiian Islands, Solomon Islands and Fiji Islands. Jackson survived the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. After he was honorably discharged in 1945, he enrolled at Wayne State University and the Detroit College of Law in Detroit, Michigan. Between 1949 and 1981, he worked as a management consultant at Employers Insurance of Wausau. He married Genevieve E. LeRoux on September 17, 1949. His wife passed away in 1987, and Jackson remarried Audry Gouine-Clark in1993. Jackson died on June 8, 2006, and is buried in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
United States Census Bureau
Digital reproduction of original census record by Fred R. Ming Jr., April 15, 1930.
Sixteenth Census Population for Adams, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, 1940
The Sixteenth Unites States Census records for Lafayette County, Florida, for 1940. The census divides the population by name, age, sex, race, marital status, residence, home owned or rented, value of home or monthly rent, whether living on a farm, other residents of same address, relation to head of house, attended school or college after March 1940, highest grade completed, state or foreign country of birth, employment status, hours of work per week, duration of employment, and wages. Supplemental questions include the father and mother's birthplace, language spoken in home during childhood, veteran status, father's veteran status, social security, usual occupation and industry, class of worker, if women have been married more than once, age at first marriage if so, and number of children born. A notable resident listed in the record is William H. Soucie (1909-1996). Born on October 9, 1909, in Portland, Connecticut, Soucie enlisted in the United States Army on June 21, 1935. Upon completion of his first four-year enlistment, Soucie returned to civilian life as a mill hand in Western Massachusetts on August 21, 1939. He re-enlisted in the Army twenty-four days after the United Sates declared war on Japan, serving in the United States Army Air Force from 1941 until 1947. At the end of this stint, he took less than a month break before joining the newly-formed Department of the Air Force. In the Air Force, Soucie fought in the Korean War. He actively participated in the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization throughout the 1950s and 1960s. He retired to Port Richey, Florida, in 1967, where he passed away pm December 11, 1996. He is buried in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original census record by Bernard T. Minuro, May 1, 1940.
Doris "Doc" Marie Leeper with Sculpture, 1996
Doris Marie Leeper in 1996. Known to many as "Doc," Leeper was a trailblazing abstract painter and sculptor based in Eldora, Florida, near New Smyrna Beach. Originally from North Carolina, Leeper found an artistic oasis in Central Florida. The region provided her with the space to buy a house and work in relative isolation, but also augmented her interest in natural preservation. Today, the Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve remains a testament to her environmental dedication. Leeper’s impact on Central Florida also became apparent through her support for institutions; for example, she was a founder of the Atlantic Center for the Arts in New Smyrna Beach. Leeper’s local legacy manifests itself most profoundly through her artistic production. Her bold lines, strong color palette, and propensity for clean lines aesthetically aligned her with minimalism. Leeper’s painting evolved from representational to non-objective over time. She embraced a language of abstraction more typical of the prevailing New York art world in the 1960 and 1970s, as opposed to the dominant aesthetic in Florida during the same time period. She showed her work locally and regionally with regularity. Her work was celebrated by significant solo exhibitions at the Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the Mint Museum of Art in Charlotte, North Carolina. The process of mining local histories yields the legacies of talented artists who have often been discarded from mainstream narratives. When one engages deeper with Leeper’s work, it is not difficult to conclude that her myriad two- and three-dimensional works are worthy of not only a local, but a national story.
Original black and white photograph by Jack Mitchell, 1996: Atlantic Center for the Arts, New Smyrna Beach, Florida.
Atlantic Center for the Arts, New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Sixteenth Census Population Schedule for Miami Beach, Election Precinct 28
The U.S. Census population schedule for Election Precinct 28 in Miami Beach, Florida, in 1940. Individuals are identified by name, titles and terms, gender, age, marital status, race, relationship to head of household, birthplace, birth year, the last place of residence, and occupation. A notable resident listed in this record was Captain Lee Silver (ca. 1922-1945). Capt. Silver was born to in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Herman Silver and Bertha Silver, around 1922-1923. His parents were Herman Silver and Bertha Silver. By 1940, the Silver family had migrated to Miami, Florida, where Lee attended Miami Beach Senior High School. During World War II, Capt. Silver served in Company G, of the 42nd Infantry Division (42ID)'s 232rd Infantry Regiment. He died near the Haardt Mountains of France on February 23, 1945, and was awarded a Silver Star and a Purple Heart. Capt. Silver is currently buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France, with a Star of David headstone, indicating Jewish heritage.
Digital reproduction of original census record by Milton G. Greenberg, April 13, 1940. https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VTHZ-V67.
Bureau of the Census
Sixteenth Census Population Schedule for Ward 4, Panama City, Election Precinct 2
The U.S. Census population schedule for Ward 4, Election Precinct 2 for Panama City, Florida, in 1930. Individuals are identified by name, titles and terms, gender, age, marital status, race, relationship to head of household, birthplace, birth year, the last place of residence, and occupation. A notable resident listed in this record was Captain Aquilla A. Calhoun, Jr., a native of Panama City. Capt. Calhoun attended the University of Florida (UF) and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts. It was upon his graduation that Capt. Calhoun enlisted as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves. Upon his enlistment, he entered the 92nd Field Artillery's 2nd Armored Division in Fort Benning, Georgia. His unit gained the nickname the Brave Cannons, which has stuck throughout the 92nd Field Artillery's career. With the intensification of World War II, the Allied began to execute the Omaha Beach Normandy Invasion in June of 1944. After the invasion, Capt. Calhoun made his way to Northern France, where he played a vital role in the liberation of Bresles, a commune in the Picardie region of France. Capt. Calhoun died during his service in France and is currently buried at the Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France. Calhoun is one of 85 Florida residents interned at Epinal. His death led to the creation of a tribute site and memorial in his honor in Bristles.
Digital reproduction of original census record by Gladys B. Moates, April 10, 1930. https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:SPGH-JN2.
Missing Air Crew Report Statement for First Lieutenant Doyle Fleming Nee
A Missing Air Crew Report Statement for First Lieutenant Doyle Fleming Nee (1921-1944). This statement was completed by John E. Molen on October 2, 1944. 1st Lt. Nee (1921-1944) was an alumnus of Pensacola High School in Pensacola, Florida. He married one of his classmates before joining the U.S. Army Air Forces' (USAAF) 367th Fighter Squadron of the 358th Fighter Group during World War II. 1st Lt. Nee became a skilled airplane pilot and participated in many battles throughout France during his career. His life came to an end on October 2, 1944, when a friendly airplane struck his plane, and he evacuated the aircraft without a parachute near Faulquemont, France. 1st Lt. Nee is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original 1-page typewritten statement by John E. Molen, October 2, 1944.
Letter from David Moniac to His Sister (November 14, 1822)
A letter of correspondence from David Moniac to his sister on November 14, 1822. In the letter, Moniac explains to his sister that he is resigning from his appointment as Brevet Second Lieutenant in the Sixth United States Infantry of the United States Army. David Moniac was born in 1802, near Pinchona Creek, in present-day Montgomery County, Alabama. In 1817, at the age of 15, David Moniac, became the first Native American cadet accepted into the United States Military Academy at West Point. Moniac was of Creek ancestry. He graduated from West Point in 1822. He died in 1836 at the Battle of Wahoo Swamp in Florida during the Second Seminole War. Moniac is memorialized at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. The inscription on his tombstone, written by Major General T.S. Jessup, reads: "He was as brave and gallant a man as ever drew a sword or faced an enemy." In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original 1-page handwritten letter from David Moniac to his sister, November 14, 1822.
United States Military Academy Preparatory School, West Point, New York
An audio recording of "'Round About Midnight," composed by Thelonious Monk (1917-1982), Bernie Hanighen (1908-1976), and Cootie Williams (1911-1985), and performed by Larry Coryell (b. 1943) live on-air on WUCF-FM on June 8, 1999. Coryell is an American jazz fusion guitarist, composer, and one of the pioneers of jazz-rock, a fusion genre that combines elements of blues, rock, country, and bop. Considered by many to be one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Coryell has shared the stage with Miles Davis (1926-1991) and Jimi Hendrix (1942-1970). He has remained active since the 1960s, recording over 100 albums. "'Round About Midnight" was first recorded by Miles Davis in 1955 and released on his album of the same name in 1957. It is the most recorded jazz standard composed by a jazz musician.
Original 8-minute and 42-second audio recording: Monk, Thelonious, Bernie Hanighen, and Cootie Williams. "'Round About Midnight," by Larry Coryell: WUCF-FM, Orlando, Florida, June 8, 1999.
WUCF-FM
WUCF-FM, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
The Fort Pierce Florida East Coast Depot in the 1940s. The Fort Pierce train station was located along the tracks that now run through Downtown Fort Pierce. Henry Flagler (1830-1913) expanded his Florida East Coast Railway (FEC) down the Florida east coast from Jacksonville in 1894, forever transforming the economic development of Florida. In 1911, Fort Pierce was established as a division point for the FEC. This new and efficient form of transportation began to take the place of coastal and canal transportation such as cargo shipping and commuter travel and significantly developed the connection between northern markets and southern products. Citrus, sugar, and pineapple farmers and fishermen located on the coast established packinghouses near the station. It also affected the population growth of these areas, as passengers found it easier, faster, and more comfortable to travel further south. New employment opportunities also drew in a heavy population, rapidly expanding the agricultural economy of Fort Pierce, which economically benefited immensely from this expansion. The original Fort Pierce train station was torn down and replaced in 1967. A replica of the old depot is located at the entrance of the St. Lucie County Regional History Center building and also houses the "Train Station Room," which includes dioramas, models, murals and photographs of historic Fort Pierce.
Digital reproduction of original 4 x 5 inch black and white photonegative by William Monypenny: General Collection, image number N029509, Florida Photographic Collection, State Library and Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
State Library and Archives of Florida
Florida East Coast Railway Station, Fort Pierce, Florida
Letter from Harold L. Moody to James "Jim" P. Clugston (December 17, 1962)
A letter of correspondence between Harold L. Moody and James "Jim" P. Clugston. In the letter, Moody discusses the changes in Lake Apopka's water quality during the 1940s and 1950s. He provides a brief timeline of the creation of the muck farms on Apopka's north shore, and notes that Winter Garden has expanded their sewage treatment in the last half-decade. He also notes that the bass fishing on Lake Apopka has declined during the 1950s, considering the 1950-1951 bass season the last phenomenal year.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from Harold L. Moody to James "Jim" P. Clugston, December 17, 162: binder 1962, drawer 1938-1987, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Harold L. Moody to O. E. Frye, Jr. (June 11, 1962)
A letter of correspondence from Harold L. Moody, fishery biologist, to O. E. Frye, Jr., Assistant Director of the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission. The letter discusses a fish kill on Lake Apopka in May 1962. Moody reports that eyewitnesses observed an agricultural spray plane disperse pesticides over the lake shortly before the fish kill began. Fish kills are usually associated with low levels of dissolved oxygen in the water. Moody notes that his samples showed the oxygen levels to be low, but rather than being evenly dispersed through the lake, the fish kill was concentrated at the north shore adjacent to the farming operations. Moody also notes the presence of dead reptiles and amphibians not normally found during an oxygen-related kill. The fish kill was estimated at 50,000 pounds, at that time the largest fish kill of 1962.
Photocopy of original 2-page letter from Harold L. Moody to O. E. Frye, Jr., June 11, 1962: binder 1962, drawer 1938-1987, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Conference on Lake Apopka Fish Kills, June 12, 1963
A report by Harold L. Moody for a conference held by various state officials to investigate the fish kills in Lake Apopka, Florida. Moody's notes describe the current fish kill, some past kills, and efforts by the different State departments to investigate the fish kills. Various causes of the fish kills are discussed. Moody disagrees with the State Board of Health that oxygen supersaturation is causing the kills; Moody believes the cause is either pesticides or an unknown fish disease.
Photocopy of original 5-page typewritten report, June 12, 1963: binder 1963, drawer 1938-1987, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Harold L. Moody to John W. Woods (October 21, 1965)
A letter from Harold L. Moody, a fisheries biologist, to John W. Woods, chief of the Fisheries Division for the Florida Game and Freshwater Commission. The letter discusses aquatic vegetation in Lake Apopka. Moody states that heavy rainfall has helped dilute pollution in the lake and improved light penetration in the water, decreasing the algae content and allowing limited regrowth of certain aquatic plants. These plants were once the dominant vegetation in the lake. Moody believes that this regrowth is temporary unless the inflow of nutrients and pollution can be halted.
Photocopy of original typewritten letter from Harold L. Moody to John W. Woods, October 21, 1965: binder 1965, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Harold L. Moody to James B. Lackey (July 22,1966)
A letter from Harold L. Moody, River Fishery Project Leader for the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, to James B. Lackey. Lackey was hired by Lake County and Orange County to study water quality in Lake Apopka and the Ocklawaha River in Florida. Moody's letter discusses his collecting of water samples, which he had sent to Lackey for examination. The samples were collected after fish kills on the lake. Moody states both kills were associated with discharge from the Winter Garden sewage treatment plant.
Photocopy of original typewritten letter from Harold L. Moody to James B. Lackey, July 22,1966: binder 1966, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Harold L. Moody to J. W. Woods (April 24, 1967)
A letter from Harold L. Moody, fisheries biologist with the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission, to J. W. Woods, Chief of Fisheries for the commission. The letter describes a fish kill first observed on April 23, 1967, by Dewey Smith, and later investigated by Moody. In the letter, Moody reports a large kill of mostly shad and catfish, with citrus processing waste present in the surrounding water.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from Harold L. Moody to J. W. Woods, April 24, 1967: binder 1967, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Tallahassee, Florida
Letter from Harold L. Moody to J. W. Woods (June 6, 1967)
A letter from Harold L. Moody, fisheries biologist with the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission, to J. W. Woods, Chief of Fisheries for the commission. The letter describes a fish kill observed on June 3, 1967. Moody was informed of the kill by Dewey Smith. The kill area was located on the north shore, in the canal separating the muck farms from the lake. Moody also notes that several fishermen observed planes spraying pesticide over the lake immediately before the fish kill. Moody reports that his lab has decided to collect water samples from the areas of future fish kills, as well as affidavits from witnesses to the kill.
Photocopy of original 1-page typewritten letter from Harold L. Moody to J. W. Woods, June 6, 1967: binder 1967, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Letter from Harold L. Moody to Lawrence E. Jerome (March 13, 1972)
A letter from Harold L. Moody, fisheries biologist for the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, to Lawrence E. Jerome. The letter gives a detailed analysis of the history of pollution in Lake Apopka, the development of the Zellwood Drainage District muck farms, and the management of Lake Apopka's water level. Lake Apopka is one of Florida’s largest lakes and was once considered to be one of the world’s best lakes for bass fishing. The lake’s sport fish population began to decline in the 1960s, with major die-offs occurring almost yearly. The lake’s problems are generally considered to be the result of over-nutrification from various sources. Twenty thousand acres of wetlands bordering the lake’s north shore were drained in the 1940s and used for highly fertile “muck farms.” These farms were routinely flooded to protect the fragile soil, and the fertilizer and pesticide-laden water was then discharged back into the lake prior to each growing season. Other sources of pollution include discharge from citrus processing operations, as well as treated wastewater from sewage plants. The nutrient-rich discharge promoted algae growth in the lake, turning the water to a green color, and blocked sunlight from reaching aquatic vegetation, which provided food and habit to the lake’s fish population. The lake’s bottom soil became increasingly “mucky,” also disrupting aquatic vegetation from taking root. Restoration work on the lake began in the 1960s with attempts by various agencies to remove “trash fish,” such as gizzard shad, from the lake via seining, which would hopefully allow the lake’s sport fish to thrive. The Lake Apopka Restoration Council, an initiative formed under Governor Claude Kirk (1926-2011) in 1967, launched several studies to find methods to improve the lake, though no serious action was taken. Various methods were debated to restore the lake through the 1970s and 1980s, including “drawdown,” which entailed completely draining the lake to allow the mucky bottom to consolidate. Restoration attempts were stalled for lack of funding and research. The Lake Apopka Restoration Council was reformed in 1985 under Governor Bob Graham (b. 1936), and, in 1987, the Surface Water and Improvement Management Act was passed. Together, these actions allowed comprehensive restoration plans to take shape, such as the Marsh Flow-way, a project by the St John’s Water Management District that uses natural methods to remove nutrients from the lake. The Friends of Lake Apopka, a citizen environmental advocacy group, began to push for further restoration efforts in the 1990s. The lake’s north shore muck farms were eventually purchased by the State of Florida, helping to reduce the amount of nutrient entering the lake.
Photocopy of 5-page typewritten letter from Harold L. Moody to Lawrence E. Jerome, March 13, 1972: binder 1972, Friends of Lake Apopka Archives, Ginn Museum, Oakland Nature Preserve, Oakland, Florida.
Fisheries Research Laboratory, Florida Game and Fresh Water Commission, Eustis, Florida
Home of Lawrence E. Jerome, Santa Clara, California
The Visitor Center at Bok Tower Gardens, located at 1151 Tower Boulevard in Lake Wales, Florida. These images were taken by Russell Moore in 2010. Edward Bok (1863-1930) retired to the town of Lake Wales, located south of Orlando. Bok set out a plan to establish a natural garden and bird sanctuary where people to visit to quietly enjoy nature. He engaged Frederick Law Olmstead, Jr. (1870-1957) to design the grounds and asked architect Milton Bennett Medary (1874-1929) to design and build a carillon tower. Lee Lawrie (1877-1963), a noted sculptor from New York, designed the elaborate marble sculpture that adorns the tower. Work was completed in 1928 and on February 1, 1929, President Calvin Coolidge dedicated the Sanctuary. Bok died less than a year later in 1930 and was buried at the foot of the tower. The tower and the carillon housed inside is Bok Tower Gardens' most distinctive feature. The carillon consists of 60 bells, ranging in size from 16 pounds to just under 12 tons. The bells are played like an organ with the keys connected to the clappers of each bell. Bok Tower has had only three regular carillonneurs in its more than 70 years. The Sanctuary's first carillonneur was Anton Brees, serving as the only carillonneur from 1928 until 1967. Milford Myhre has been the resident carillonneur since 1968. William De Turk has been the assistant carillonneur since 1993. De Turk is also the librarian of the Anton Brees Carillon Library, which is reportedly the largest and most comprehensive carillon library in the world.
Original color digital images by Russell Moore, March 7, 2010: Private Collection of Russell Moore.
Visitor Center, Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, Florida
Bok Tower Gardens, located at 1151 Tower Boulevard in Lake Wales, Florida. These images were taken by Russell Moore in 2010. Edward Bok (1863-1930) retired to the town of Lake Wales, located south of Orlando. Bok set out a plan to establish a natural garden and bird sanctuary where people to visit to quietly enjoy nature. He engaged Frederick Law Olmstead, Jr. (1870-1957) to design the grounds and asked architect Milton Bennett Medary (1874-1929) to design and build a carillon tower. Lee Lawrie (1877-1963), a noted sculptor from New York, designed the elaborate marble sculpture that adorns the tower. Work was completed in 1928 and on February 1, 1929, President Calvin Coolidge dedicated the Sanctuary. Bok died less than a year later in 1930 and was buried at the foot of the tower. The tower and the carillon housed inside is Bok Tower Gardens' most distinctive feature. The carillon consists of 60 bells, ranging in size from 16 pounds to just under 12 tons. The bells are played like an organ with the keys connected to the clappers of each bell. Bok Tower has had only three regular carillonneurs in its more than 70 years. The Sanctuary's first carillonneur was Anton Brees, serving as the only carillonneur from 1928 until 1967. Milford Myhre has been the resident carillonneur since 1968. William De Turk has been the assistant carillonneur since 1993. De Turk is also the librarian of the Anton Brees Carillon Library, which is reportedly the largest and most comprehensive carillon library in the world.
Bok Tower, located at 1151 Tower Boulevard in Lake Wales, Florida. These images were taken by Russell Moore in 2010. Edward Bok (1863-1930) retired to the town of Lake Wales, located south of Orlando. Bok set out a plan to establish a natural garden and bird sanctuary where people to visit to quietly enjoy nature. He engaged Frederick Law Olmstead, Jr. (1870-1957) to design the grounds and asked architect Milton Bennett Medary (1874-1929) to design and build a carillon tower. Lee Lawrie (1877-1963), a noted sculptor from New York, designed the elaborate marble sculpture that adorns the tower. Work was completed in 1928 and on February 1, 1929, President Calvin Coolidge dedicated the Sanctuary. Bok died less than a year later in 1930 and was buried at the foot of the tower. The tower and the carillon housed inside is Bok Tower Gardens' most distinctive feature. The carillon consists of 60 bells, ranging in size from 16 pounds to just under 12 tons. The bells are played like an organ with the keys connected to the clappers of each bell. Bok Tower has had only three regular carillonneurs in its more than 70 years. The Sanctuary's first carillonneur was Anton Brees, serving as the only carillonneur from 1928 until 1967. Milford Myhre has been the resident carillonneur since 1968. William De Turk has been the assistant carillonneur since 1993. De Turk is also the librarian of the Anton Brees Carillon Library, which is reportedly the largest and most comprehensive carillon library in the world.
President Calvin Coolidge Dedication Marker at Bok Tower Gardens
The dedication marker for a palm tree planted by President Calvin Coolidge (1872-1933) on February 1, 1929, at Bok Tower Gardens, located at 1151 Tower Boulevard in Lake Wales, Florida. These images were taken by Russell Moore in 2010. Edward Bok (1863-1930) retired to the town of Lake Wales, located south of Orlando. Bok set out a plan to establish a natural garden and bird sanctuary where people to visit to quietly enjoy nature. He engaged Frederick Law Olmstead, Jr. (1870-1957) to design the grounds and asked architect Milton Bennett Medary (1874-1929) to design and build a carillon tower. Lee Lawrie (1877-1963), a noted sculptor from New York, designed the elaborate marble sculpture that adorns the tower. Work was completed in 1928 and on February 1, 1929, President Calvin Coolidge dedicated the Sanctuary. Bok died less than a year later in 1930 and was buried at the foot of the tower. The tower and the carillon housed inside is Bok Tower Gardens' most distinctive feature. The carillon consists of 60 bells, ranging in size from 16 pounds to just under 12 tons. The bells are played like an organ with the keys connected to the clappers of each bell. Bok Tower has had only three regular carillonneurs in its more than 70 years. The Sanctuary's first carillonneur was Anton Brees, serving as the only carillonneur from 1928 until 1967. Milford Myhre has been the resident carillonneur since 1968. William De Turk has been the assistant carillonneur since 1993. De Turk is also the librarian of the Anton Brees Carillon Library, which is reportedly the largest and most comprehensive carillon library in the world.
Original color digital image by Russell Moore, March 7, 2010: Private Collection of Russell Moore.
First Lady Grace Coolidge Dedication Marker at Bok Tower Gardens
The dedication marker for a palm tree planted by First Lady Grace Coolidge (1879-1957), the wife of President Calvin Coolidge (1872-1933), on February 1, 1929, at Bok Tower Gardens, located at 1151 Tower Boulevard in Lake Wales, Florida. These images were taken by Russell Moore in 2010. Edward Bok (1863-1930) retired to the town of Lake Wales, located south of Orlando. Bok set out a plan to establish a natural garden and bird sanctuary where people to visit to quietly enjoy nature. He engaged Frederick Law Olmstead, Jr. (1870-1957) to design the grounds and asked architect Milton Bennett Medary (1874-1929) to design and build a carillon tower. Lee Lawrie (1877-1963), a noted sculptor from New York, designed the elaborate marble sculpture that adorns the tower. Work was completed in 1928 and on February 1, 1929, President Calvin Coolidge dedicated the Sanctuary. Bok died less than a year later in 1930 and was buried at the foot of the tower. The tower and the carillon housed inside is Bok Tower Gardens' most distinctive feature. The carillon consists of 60 bells, ranging in size from 16 pounds to just under 12 tons. The bells are played like an organ with the keys connected to the clappers of each bell. Bok Tower has had only three regular carillonneurs in its more than 70 years. The Sanctuary's first carillonneur was Anton Brees, serving as the only carillonneur from 1928 until 1967. Milford Myhre has been the resident carillonneur since 1968. William De Turk has been the assistant carillonneur since 1993. De Turk is also the librarian of the Anton Brees Carillon Library, which is reportedly the largest and most comprehensive carillon library in the world.
The Pinewood Estate at Bok Tower Gardens, located at 1151 Tower Boulevard in Lake Wales, Florida. The Pinewood Estate is a mansion that was constructed for Charles Austin Buck, the vice president of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation. In 1929, William Lyman Phillips, an architect at Frederick Law Olmstead, Jr.'s (1822-1903) firm, began designing the gardens. In 1930, Charles Wait began designing the house in the Mediterranean style of architecture. Originally called "El Retiro," which means "The Retreat" in Spanish, the estate was acquired by Nellie Lee Holt Bok , the daughter of Bok Tower Gardens founder Edward W. Bok (1863-1930), and renamed the "Pinewood Estate" in 1970.These images were taken by Russell Moore in 2010.
Pinewood Estate, Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, Florida
St. Lucie County Regional History Center
St. Lucie County Regional History Center, located at 414 Seaway Drive in Fort Pierce, Florida, in 2014. The history center is located in what was once the Fort Pierce train station. The Fort Pierce train station was located along the tracks that now run through downtown Fort Pierce, Florida. Henry Flagler (1830-1913) expanded his railroad down the Florida east coast from Jacksonville in 1894, forever transforming the economic development of Florida. In 1911, Fort Pierce was established as a division point for the Florida East Coast Railway Company. This new and efficient form of transportation began to take the place of coastal and canal transportation such as cargo shipping and commuter travel and significantly developed the connection between northern markets and southern products. Citrus, sugar, and pineapple farmers and fishermen located on the coast established packinghouses near the station. It also affected the population growth of these areas, as passengers found it easier, faster and more comfortable to travel further south. New employment opportunities also drew in a heavy population, rapidly expanding the agricultural economy of Fort Pierce, which economically benefited immensely from this expansion. The original Fort Pierce train station was torn down and replaced in 1967. A replica of the old depot is located at the entrance of the St. Lucie County Regional History Center building and also houses the "Train Station Room", which includes dioramas, models, murals and photographs of historic Fort Pierce.
Original color digital image by Samantha Moore, 2014.
St. Lucie County Regional History Center, Fort Pierce, Florida
A newspaper article about Marie Jones Francis, the "midwife of Sanford." Francis left behind a successful hotel and restaurant she owned in Sarasota in 1942 to return to Sanford and become a midwife. World War II caused a shortage in doctors and nurses, so Florida's Children's Bureau sent Francis to Florida A & M to acquire her practical nursing license in 1945. She specialized in premature babies and returned to Sanford to aid her mother, Carrie Jones, at Fernald-Laughton Memorial Hospital before they opened the ward in their home. "When her health starting failing," she recollects in a newspaper article, "I took over." Francis converted her house at 621 East Sixth Street to also serve as a maternity ward, where she delivered over 40,000 babies over her 32 year career. She became a midwife in the same vein as her mother, Carrie Jones, and together they ran the Jones-Francis Maternity Hall in Georgetown. Francis served her community in several ways. She delivered babies for both white and black families from Seminole County, primarily patrons who either preferred natural births or could not afford deliveries at a hospital. In the 1950s, it cost $70 to stay nine days where soon-to-be mothers were taken care of. Francis was assisted by her sister, Annie Walker, who did the cooking. The house and ward also served as a school, where Marie Francis taught nurses the art of midwifery. Nurses would come from across the state to learn how to delivery infants naturally. A heavy burden on a single working mother, Marie Francis had three daughters, Cassandra Clayton, Daphne Humphrey, and Barbara Torre. Clayton and Humphrey became school teachers and Torre became a purchaser at Seminole Memorial Hospital.
Original newspaper article: Moore, Stacy. "Midwife on Job Here 32 Years." The Little Sentinel, April 4, 1979: Private Collection of Daphne F. Humphrey.
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical College, Tallahasse, Florida
Jones-Francis Maternity Hall, Georgetown, Sanford, Florida
Fernald-Laughton Memorial Hospital, Sanford, Florida
Sixteenth Census Population for Cusseta, Chattahoochee County, Georgia, 1940
The Sixteenth United States Census records for Cusseta, Chattahoochee County, Georgia, for 1940. The census divides the population by name, age, sex, race, marital status, residence, home owned or rented, value of home or monthly rent, whether living on a farm, other residents of same address, relation to head of house, attended school or college after March 1940, highest grade completed, state or foreign country of birth, employment status, hours of work per week, duration of employment, and wages. Supplemental questions include the father and mother's birthplace, language spoken in home during childhood, veteran status, father's veteran status, social security, usual occupation and industry, class of worker, if women have been married more than once, age at first marriage if so, and number of children born. A notable resident listed in this record is Albert Lee Minyard Jr. (1917-1986). Born in Brooks, Georgia, Minyard served in the United States Army from 1935-1941 and from 1948 to 1958. In December of 1948, he married his wife, Roslyn Minyard, and eventually had two boys with her. The family moved to Hillsborough County, Florida, where Alberty passed away on January 13, 1986. He is memorialized in Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. Roslyn survived him, living in the Tampa and St. Petersburg area until her own death on May 2, 2000. She is memorialized with Albert in Bushnell. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original census record by Harold N. Moorman, April 4, 1940.
Letter from Robert D. Moran to Pilgrim Black
A letter of correspondence from Robert D. Moran, administrator of the Workplace Standards Administration in the United States Department of Labor, to Pilgrim Black. In the letter, Moran informs Black that the minimum wage for nonfarm employees was to be raised from $1.45/ per hour to $1.60 per hour effective February 1, 1971 and that the minimum wage for farm workers would remain unchanged at $1.30 per hour. Black was born in 1905, although some records list 1907 as his birth year. Pilgrim and Lula Mae Haynes (1917-2007) Black were migrant crew leaders, and thus migrated to Wayne County in Upstate New York in the summers and back to their home in Sanford for the rest of the year. Pilgrim was the son of Harry Black (d. 1911) and Maggie Benjamin Black (ca.1870-ca.1934), who migrated to Sanford from South Carolina in the 1800s. Harry and Maggie had several children: Leckward Black, Mustar Black, Malachi Black, Leatha Black Walker (1889-1976), Pilgrim Black, Margaret Black Jones (1889-1976), and Harriett Black Lawson. In 1911, Harry owned a grocery store at 206 South Sanford Avenue. One day, he came home from work with pneumonia and passed away shortly thereafter. Pilgrim was nine years old when his father passed away. Maggie was the daughter of former slaves, Isaac and Roseanna Benjamin, and the sister of Nathan Benjamin, Pledge Benjamin, Sam Benjamin, Loui Benjamin, Chainey Benjamin, Lara Benjamin, Melvina Benjamin, and Katie Benjamin. Pilgrim had to quit school at age 11 in order to provide for his mother, originally working in a mill house until he was 18 years old. After declining a management position, he traveled to Wayne County to pick cherries, apples, pears, and other crops. He broke a bone after falling from an apple tree his first year and decided to try farm labor on a potato farm in Red Creek, New York, instead. Don Holdridge, the farmer who owned the land, noted Pilgrim's high rate of productivity and offered him a management position supervising up to thirty workers at once, which he accepted. While in Sanford, Pilgrim also worked as a foreman in Sanford for Chase & Company for over 30 years. He married Lula in 1937 and they had several children together, including Vivian Louise Black (1940-); Lula Yvonne Black (1942-); Charles Samuel Black (1945-); Pilgrim Black, Jr. (ca. 1947-), and Patricia Ann Black (1956-).
Original letter from Robert D. Moran to Pilgrim Black: Private Collection of Patricia Ann Black.
Application for World War II Compensation for Frank Black Morgan
An application for World War II Compensation completed by Edna Grace Morgan, the mother of First Lieutenant Frank Black Morgan (1920-1944). 1st Lt. Morgan was born in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, on January 28, 1920, to Samuel Morgan and Edna Grace Morgan. Samuel Morgan was a first generation American of Northern Irish descent, working in the publishing industry as an editor and linotype operation. Edna Morgan (née Black) was a native of Pennsylvania. 1st Lt. Morgan had two older brothers: Samuel Cree Morgan (1909-1990) and James Alexander Morgan (1912-1982). The Morgans owned a home on 17 Clopper Street in Greensburg, where 1st Lt. Morgan resided until he entered active service on April 27, 1942, out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, at the age of 22. 1st Lt. Morgan trained at MacDuill Field, a U.S. Army Air Corps which would become MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida, and then served with the 555th Bomber Squadron, a unit within the 386th Bomber Group. 1st Lt. Morgan served his country with distinction, earning an Air Medal with Eight Oak Leaf Clusters. He died on December 20, 1944, four days into the Ardennes Counteroffensive, also known as the Battle of the Bulge. His death is listed as non-battle related, suggesting that he may have been one of the many Martin B-26 Marauder crashes at takeoff or upon landing. 1st Lt. Morgan died just before the end of World War II at the age of 24. 1st Lt. Morgan is buried in Plot B, Row 39, Grave 46 at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France. A second memorial was organized by his family is at Parker Presbyterian Cemetery in Parker, Pennsylvania.
Digital reproduction of original typewritten application.
Sheet music for "Westinghouse Song," composed by Schulter C. Morgan in 1939. During the 1930s, the Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company held a contest for the composition of the company's official song. The composer, Schulter C. Morgan, won the contest. Originally called the Westinghouse Electric Company, George Westinghouse (1846-1914) founded his manufacturing company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on January 8, 1886. In 1889, he renamed his business the Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company. Westinghouse's primary products include turbines, generators, motors and switchgear related to the generation, transmission, and use of electricity. The company changed its name to Westinghouse Electric Corporation in 1945.
Original 4-page sheet music: Morgan, Schulter C. "Westinghouse Song." Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company, 1939: Private Collection of George E. Baker.
Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company
Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company, Gateway Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
A pamphlet detailing the legacy of George Westinghouse (1846-1914) and his business entrepreneurship. Originally called the Westinghouse Electric Company, Westinghouse founded his manufacturing company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on January 8, 1886. In 1889, he renamed his business the Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company. Westinghouse's primary products include turbines, generators, motors and switchgear related to the generation, transmission, and use of electricity. The company changed its name to Westinghouse Electric Corporation in 1945.
Reprint of original 16-page pamphlet: Private Collection of George E. Baker.
Oral History of Ima Jean Bostick Yarborough
An oral history interview of Ima Jean Bostick Yarborough, conducted by Joseph Morris on November 10, 2011. Yarborough was born on August 2, 1935 in Ocala, Florida, but spent much of her adult life working in the cattle industry in Geneva. In the interview, she discusses her childhood in Ocala, how Ocala has changed over time, living in Oxford, the cattle industry, life in Geneva, the 4-H program, and her husband's military service.
Original 1-hour and 56-second oral history: Yarborough, Ima Jean Bostick. Interviewed by Joseph Morris. November 10, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
An oral history of Rex Clonts, Jr., conducted by Joseph Morris on November 2, 2011. Clonts was born in Orlando, Florida, but he was raised in Oviedo. In the interview, Clonts discusses his family's work in agriculture, celery farming, how Oviedo has changed over time, the effect of Walt Disney World and the University of Central Florida (UCF) on the region, the citrus and cattle industries, the relationship between the Oviedo community and the Naval Air Station Sanford (NAS Sanford), and fire ants in Florida.
Original 55-minute and 16-second oral history: Clonts, Rex, Jr. Interviewed by Joseph Morris. November 2, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Naval Air Station Sanford, Sanford, Florida
An oral history of Charlie Morgan, conducted by Joseph Morris on September 21, 2011. Morgan was born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1940, but migrated to Bookertown, an African-American community in Sanford, Florida. In the interview, Morgan discusses life in Bookertown, working in the agriculture and construction industries, segregation and race relations in Sanford, moonshine, civil rights, serving in the military during the Vietnam War, how Bookertown and Sanford have changed over time, and Mary McLeod Bethune (1875-1955).
Original 1-hour, 14-minute, and 22-second oral history: Morgan, Charlie Interviewed by Joseph Morris. September 21, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
An oral history of John Louis Salsbury, conducted by Joseph Morris on September 9, 2011. Salsbury was born in Tampa, Florida, but he has spent much of his life in Sanford. In the interview, Salsbury discusses his family's history, Port Tampa during the Spanish-American War, his service in the U.S. Air Force, photographing Space Shuttle launches and astronauts, how Sanford has changed over time, and the Florida Aviation Historical Society.
Original 1-hour, 4-minute, and 54-second oral history: Salsbury, John Louis. Interviewed by Joseph Morris. September 9, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
South Park Avenue and West 9th Street, Sanford, Florida
Port Tampa Dock, Port Tampa, Tampa, Florida
Norton Air Force Base, San Bernardino, California
Naval Air Station Keflavík, Keflavík, Iceland
Homestead Air Reserve Base, Homestead, Florida
John F. Kennedy Space Center, Titusville, Florida
Disney-MGM Studios, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
An oral history of Arthurene Wilson Cook (b. 1930), conducted by Joseph Morris on October 4, 2011. Cook was born in Orlando, Florida, in 1930, but migrated to Sanford around 1942. In the interview, Cook discusses life in Sanford, her employment experiences, her husbands and children, growing up during the Great Depression, prosperity in the post-World War II era, her husband's career in the railroad industry, her children and grandchildren, and her battle with cancer.
Original 44-minute and 42-second oral history: Cook, Arthurene Wilson. Interviewed by Joseph Morris. October 4, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Magic Kingdom Park, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (U.S.)
An oral history of Charles Whittington b. 1938), conducted by Joseph Morris on November 18, 2011. Whittington was born in Sanford, Florida, in March of 1938. In the interview, he discusses his childhood in Sanford and Charleston, celery and gladiola farming, his father's service in the U.S. Navy, his mother and sister, how Sanford has changed over time, his employment history, his world travel experiences, his activities after retirement, his work with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA),his wife and children, his service in the U.S. Army and in the U.S. Air Force, and the Apollo 8.
Original 58-minute and 16-second oral history: Whittington, Charles Interviewed. by Joseph Morris. November 18, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Sinclair Oil Corporation Gas Station, Sanford, Florida
Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, South Carolina
An oral history of Dick Groskey, conducted by Joseph Morris on October 28, 2011. Born in Springfield, Ohio, Groskey migrated with his family to Orlando, Florida, in the early 1950s. In the interview, he discusses migrating to Florida, growing up in Ohio, how Orlando and Central Florida has changed over time, his experience contracting with various companies and government institutions, the metalworking industry, business taxes, his service in the U.S. Air Force during World War II, and his wife and children.
Groskey, Dick. Interviewed by Joseph Morris. October 28, 2011. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Orlando, Florida.
Sanford High School Geography Class Assignment, 1909
Geography assignment completed by Sanford High School eighth grader Kenneth Morton in 1909. Sanford High School was originally established at 301 West Seventh Street in Sanford, Florida, in 1902. The building was designed by W. G. Talley in the Romanesque revival style. Due to an increasing student population, a new school building was constructed on Sanford Avenue in 1911. The original building on Seventh Street served as Westside Grammar Elementary School, which was later renamed Sanford Grammar School. In 1984, the building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places and converted into the Student Museum. The building reopened as the University of Central Florida's Public History Center in 2012. In 1927, a high school campus was designed by Elton J. Moughton in the Mediterranean revival style and constructed at 1700 French Avenue. The school reopened on January 10 and was renamed Seminole High School. In 1960, the high school moved to a new campus at 2701 Ridgewood Avenue and the former building on French Avenue was converted to Sanford Junior High School, which was later renamed Sanford Middle School. The old building was demolished in the summer of 1991 and replaced by a $5.77 million school complex. As of 2013, Seminole High School offers various Advanced Placement courses, the Academy for Health Careers, and the International Baccalaureate Programme for students.
Original school assignment completed by Kenneth Morton, May 11, 1909: Sanford High School Collection, box 3A, folder Student Work 1909, item SCPS00515, UCF Public History Center, Sanford, Florida.
Oral History of Leonard Casselberry and Jane Casselberry
An oral history of Leonard and Jane Casselberry, conducted by Daniel Motta on May 30, 2012. In the interview, the Casselberrys discuss life in Casselberry, Florida, which was founded by Leonard's father, Hibbard Casselberry. Other topics discussed include the founding of Casselberry, working in the fern industry, the effect of World War II on the home front, how Leonard and Jane met, how Casselberry has changed over time, Hibbard Casselberry's involvement in growing azaleas and oak trees, and the Casselberrys' occupations after Leonard left the U.S. Navy.
Original 39-minute and 14-second oral history: Casselberry, Leonard and Jane Casselberry. Interviewed by Daniel Motta. UCF Community Veterans History Project. May 30, 2012. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
An oral history of Harold Haldeman, conducted by Daniel Motta on July 11, 2012. Haldeman was born on November 12, 1924, in Tampa, Florida, but spent much of his life in Osceola. In the interview, Haldeman discusses his childhood, migration to Osceola, the differences between Maitland and Osceola, the sawmill in Osceola, the lumber industry, race relations in Central Florida, the effect of the Great Depression and World War II on industry, the Geneva airfield, and education in Geneva during the Depression.
Original oral history: Haldeman, Harold. Interviewed by Daniel Motta. July 11, 2012. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
Seminole County Landfill, Geneva, Florida
Lake Monroe (Seminole County and Volusia County, Fla.)
An oral history of Bobby Martin (b. 1944), conducted by Daniel Motta on June 13, 2012. Martin was born in Tampa, Florida, in 1944, but spent much of his life as a commercial fisherman on Lake Jesup and Lake Monroe. In the interview, Martin discusses growing up in Longwood, serving in the military during the Vietnam War, the commercial fishing industry, the relationship between fishermen, fishing methods, catfish farming and the decline of the wild commercial fishing industry, leaving the fishing industry, and the dangers of fishing.
Original 59-minute and 36-second oral history: Martin, Bobby. Interviewed by Daniel Motta. June 13, 2012. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Sanford Boat Works & Marina, Sanford, Florida
An oral history of Bob Hattaway, conducted by Daniel Motta on June 14, 2012. Hattaway was born and raised in Altamonte Springs, Florida. In the interview, Hattaway discusses growing up in Altamonte Springs, working in the fern industry, his real estate and agricultural endeavors, his family's influence in Altamonte Springs and Casselberry, the greenhouse business, local politics, and the air travel industry.
Original 49-minute and 20-second oral history:Hattaway, Bob. Interviewed by Daniel Motta. June 14, 2012. Audio record available. Museum of Seminole County History, Sanford, Florida.
Winter Park High School, Winter Park, Florida
Orlando International Airport, Orlando, Florida
Orlando-Sanford International Airport, Sanford, Florida
Adult Toy Storage, Altamonte Springs, Florida
Blueprint of Sanford Memorial Stadium created by local Sanford architect Elton J. Moughton. The Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium is located at 1201 South Mellonville Avenue in Sanford, Florida. The stadium was built on the original site of the Sanford Municipal Athletic Field, which was erected in 1926. Many Major League stars have played in the stadium including Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays, Tim Raines, and David Eckstein. Sanford Stadium is best known as the location where Jackie Robinson first took to the field in 1946 to play baseball as a member of a white Class AAA International League Team in Daytona Beach, Florida, which was partnered with the Montreal Royals. By the time Robinson took the field, however, the crowd ended up booing him off before he could play. The police chief had actually threatened to cancel the game if Robinson took the field. Sanford Stadium was also used as the Spring Training Facility of the Boston Braves in 1942 and the New York Giants in 1951. In 2001, the stadium was refurbished, costing $2 million. During the 2009, Sanford Stadium was the home of the Seminole County Naturals of the Florida Winter Baseball League, which suspended operations during the season due to lack of funding. As of 2013, the stadium served as the home of the Sanford Babe Ruth Baseball League and the Sanford River Rats of the Florida Collegiate Summer League. The ballpark features 415 box seats and 1,600 bleacher seats. Sanford entered the world of pro ball in 1919 with the formation of the Class D Florida State League. In its inaugural season, the Celeryfeds won the first half pennant, finishing in a tie with Orlando for the best overall record. Although the league folded in 1928, it was revived in 1936, and once again included a team from Sanford called the Lookouts, which was part of the Senators family of clubs. This struggling team finally turned around when they acquired former Major League star, Dale Alexander, as manager and first baseman in 1939. In over 80 years of Florida State League history, no team has ever matched their .737 winning percentage that season. The next season, the Sanford Seminoles emerged as the city's baseball team.
Original blueprint created by Elton J. Moughton. Memorial Stadium. July 24, 1950: Library and Archives, Orange County Regional History Center, Orlando, Florida.
Funeral Services for the Late Mrs. Leatha Walker
Funeral Services program for Leatha Walker (1889-1976), the sister of Pilgrim Black (1905-2002) and the aunt of Patricia Ann Black (1956- ). The services were held on March 6, 1976, at the Mt. Moriah Primity Baptist Church, located at 1101 South Locust Avenue in Sanford, Florida. Reverend J. S. Snelling presided over the service. Leatha Black was born on August 17, 1889, in Sanford to Harry Black (d. 1911) and Maggie Benjamin Black (ca.1870-ca.1934). She had four brothers and two sisters: Leckward Black, Mustar Black, Malachi Black, Pilgrim Black (1905-2002), Margaret Black Jones (1889-1976), and Harriett Black Lawson. As a child, she attended Seminole County Public Schools and was a member of the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. As an adult, she joined the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church under the pastorate of Reverend E. Bullard. Leatha married Reverend Robert Bradley and had one child with him, Reverend Israel Bradley Black (ca.1913-ca.2007). Several years later, Leatha married Reverend A. W. Walker and had four children with him: Joell Walker, Carrie Walker Oliver, Clementine Walker Barnes, and Harry Walker. Leatha was also a member of Rebecca Chapter 83 of the Order of the Eastern Star, a Freemason fraternal organization for both men and women. On February 26, 1976, Leatha Walker passed away at the Seminole Memorial Hospital, located at the corner of East First Street and Mellonville Avenue in Sanford. Her funeral services included speeches and performances by the Gospel Choir of the Hickory Avenue Church of God, Reverend P. Sanders, Reverend W. Brown, the Mt. Moriah choir, Deacon R. Zanders, Mother R. Wilson, Fernandina Beach, Sister Flossie Zanders, Mrs. Clyde Walker, and Reverend J.S. Snelling. Her remains were cared for by the Sanders Funeral Home and she was buried in the Light Foot Cemetery.
Original program, 1976: Mt. Moriah Primity Baptist Church, Sanford, Florida: Private Collection of Patricia Black.
Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Sanford, Florida
Seminole Memorial Hospital, Sanford, Florida
Letter from M. C. Muddleson to James D. Beggs, Jr. (January 16, 1941)
A letter from M. C. Muddleson to Orlando Postmaster James D. Beggs, Jr., dated January 16, 1941. In the letter, Muddleson discusses plans for the dedication ceremony of the new Downtown Orlando Post Office building, located at 51 East Jefferson Street in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The original post office was housed in the Federal Building, located 44 East Central Boulevard in Downtown Orlando, Florida, from 1917 to 1941. In 1935, when James D. Beggs, Jr. became the postmaster, he began petitioning to move the post office from its Central Boulevard and Court Avenue location to a more spacious building. In 1939, St. James Catholic Church sold a plot of land on Jefferson Street for the new building. The building was designed by Louis A. Simon in the Northern Italian Palazzo Revival-style, and was constructed by J. P. Cullen & Son. The new building opened in 1941 and housed the post office, the courthouse, and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offices. The building was named an Orlando Historic Landmark in 1989. However, it was eventually sold back to the St. James Church. In 2003, the building was renovated and came under joint ownership by both the church and the federal government. Today, the building retains its post office services but also includes offices for the Catholic Diocese.
Original letter from M. C. Muddleson to James D. Beggs, Jr., January 16, 1941: Private Collection of Texann Ivy Buck.
Downtown Orlando Post Office, Downtown Orlando, Florida
An oral history interview of Kelley Muller-Smith, a Sanford native raised in Oviedo and professional singer. The interview was conducted by Dr. Connie Lester and Jessica Oldham over Zoom in Orlando, Florida, on July 28th, 2022. Some of the topics covered include Muller-Smith’s childhood and schooling in Oviedo and Jackson Heights Elementary School, now Jackson Heights Middle School, and the roles of her parents, her father, principal Stanley T. Muller, and her mother, music teacher Mae Frances Muller, in segregated Oviedo-area schools for African American students. Other topics include her memories of daily life at Jackson Heights Elementary School, the instruction of memorable teachers, the role of music in shaping Muller-Smith’s personal and professional life, her experiences traveling with different musical and performing arts groups, and her view on the importance of the future Historic Colored Schools Museum.
Muller-Smith, Kelley. Interviewed by Connie Lester and Jessica Oldham, July 28, 2022. Audio record available. RICHES, Orlando, Florida.
RICHES
Jackson Heights Middle School, Oviedo, Florida
Robert Hungerford Preparatory High School, Eatonville, Florida
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 12: Vol. 90, No. 3, Winter 2012
This episode features interviews with the guest editors of the special issue of the The Florida Historical Quarterly, Julian C. Chambliss and Denise K. Cummings, speaking about their article, "Florida: The Mediated State." The entire issue is dedicated to an examination of how cultural actors have defined the way that we imagine Florida through popular culture.
Original 17-minute and 8-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2012: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
The Florida Historical Quarterly
Florida Historical Society
University of Central Florida, Department of History
Colony Theatre, Downtown Winter Park, Florida
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 14: Vol. 91, No. 1, Summer 2012
This episode features The Florida Historical Quarterly Assistant Editor Dr. Daniel S. Murphree’s interview of Professor Claire Strom, Rapetti-Trunzo Professor of History at Rollins College, about her article "Controlling Venereal Disease in Orlando during World War II." Her article is about Orlando's reaction and policies toward venereal disease and women's sexuality during World War II, and it was published in this issue of FHQ.
Original 12-minute and 33-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2012: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 15: Vol. 91, No. 2, Fall 2012
This podcast features an interview with Matthew G. Hyland from Duquesne University, about This article "The Florida Keys Hurricane House: Post-Disaster New Deal Housing." The article, featured in this issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly, is about hurricane houses during the Great Depression in the Florida Keys.
Original 18-minute and 33-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2012: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Sleeping Policeman
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 16: Vol. 91, No. 3, Winter 2013
For this episode, FHQ Assistant Editor Dr. Daniel S. Murphree interviewed Dr. Paul Hoffman, Paul W. and Nancy W. Murrill Professor of History at Louisiana State University. Professor Hoffman is the guest editor for this special issue, the first of a series of issues that re-examines the five hundred years of Florida history since the landing of Ponce de Leon in 1513. He is also the author of "The Historiography of Sixteenth-Century La Florida," which appeared in this issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly. This issue addresses Florida during the 16th century, and four more issues will be published over the next four years to re-examine subsequent centuries in Florida history.
Original 29-minute and 2-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2013: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 17: Vol. 91, No. 4, Spring 2013
This podcast features an interview with Andrew Fairbanks and Dr. Christopher Meindl, about their article "Talking Trash: A Short History of Solid Waste Management in Florida," which appeared in this issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly. Christopher Meindl is Associate Professor of geography at the University of South Florida-St. Petersburg, and Andrew Fairbanks received This Master of Arts degree in Florida Studies at USFSP.
Original 25-minute and 58-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2013: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 18: Vol. 92, No. 1, Summer 2013
This podcast features an interview with Dr. Sam Watson, Professor of History at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, about This article "Conquerors, Peacekeepers, or Both? The U.S. Army and West Florida, 1810-1811, A New Perspective," which appeared in this issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly. This article is about the West Florida Rebellion of 1810.
Original 16-minute and 41-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2013: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 19: Vol. 92, No. 2, Fall 2013
This episode features an interview with Attorney Richard S. Dellinger, who co-edited this special issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. The issue is dedicated to the significant cases that have made it through the Middle District Court, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
Original 19-minute and 47-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2013: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Bryan Simpson United States Courthouse, Jacksonville, Florida
Sam M. Gibbons U.S. Courthouse, Tampa, Florida
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 20: Vol. 92, No. 3, Winter 2014
This episode features an interview with Dr. Jane Landers, who was the guest editor of the Special Issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly that examines 17th-century Florida. This is the second of a six-part special issue that will examine the Quintessential of Ponce De Leon's first visit to Florida.
Original 18-minute and 43-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2014: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Mission San Luis de Apalachee, Tallahassee, Florida
Castillo de San Marcos. St. Augustine, Florida
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 21: Vol. 92, No. 4, Spring 2014
This episode features an interview with Matthew J. Clavin, Associate Professor of history at the University of Houston. Clavin is the author of Toussaint Louverture and the Civil War: the Promise and Peril of a Second Haitian Revolution. In this episode, Clavin spoke to us about This article "An 'underground railway' to Pensacola and the Impending Crisis over Slavery," published in the Spring 2014 issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly.
Original 18-minute and 51-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2014: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 22: Vol. 93, No. 1, Summer 2014
This episode features an interview with Dr. Lisa Lindquist-Dorr, Associate Professor of History and Associate Dean, College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Alabama. She is the author of White Women, Rape, and the Power of Race in Virginia, 1900-1960, published by the University of North Carolina Press. She spoke to us about her article "Bootlegging Aliens: Unsanctioned Immigration and the Underground Economy of Smuggling from Cuba during Prohibition," published in the Summer 2014 issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly.
Original 19-minute and 16-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2014: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 23: Vol. 93, No. 2, Fall 2014
This episode features an interview with C. S. Monaco about This article in the Fall 2014 issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly titled "'Wishing that Right May Prevail': Ethan Allen Hitchcock and the Florida War." In this podcast, Monaco also discussed This current research on the Second Seminole War and the creative questions and debates that surround this period of Florida history.
Original 25-minute and 22-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2014: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 24: Vol. 93, No. 3, Winter 2015
This episode features an interview with Dr. Sherry Johnson, who was the guest editor of the Special Issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly that examines the Eighteenth-century Florida. This is the third of a six-part special issue that will examine the Quincentennial of Ponce De Leon's first visit to Florida.
Original 34-minute audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2015: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 25: Vol. 93, No. 4, Spring 2015
This episode features an interview with Dr. Robert Cassanello, looking back at the career of Dr. Raymond A. Mohl. Dr. Mohl passed away in earlier in the year and This obituary is featured in the Spring 2015 issue. This podcast includes a discussion about the impact of Dr. Mohl, as well as excerpts from an unaired 2011 interview with Dr. Mohl about interstate highway planning and protests.
Original 27-minute and 35-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2015: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Interstate 95, Overtown, Downtown Miami, Florida
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 26: Vol. 94, No. 1, Summer 2015
This episode features an interview with Laura E. Brock about her article in The Florida Historical Quarterly on the legislative fight for the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and the Florida Legislature in the 1970s, titled "Religion and Women's Rights in Florida: An Examination of the Equal Rights Amendment Legislative Debates, 1972-1982."
Original 20-minute and 30-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2015: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Florida State Capitol, Tallahassee, Florida
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 27: Vol. 94, No. 2, Fall 2015
This episode features an interview with John Paul Nuño from California State University at Northridge about this article, "República de Bandidos: Challenges to Emergent Racial Hierarchies in the Florida Borderlands in the Early Nineteenth Century," published in this issue of The Florida Historical Quarterly.
Original 28-minute and 39-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2015: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Prospect Bluff Fort, Wewahitchka, Florida
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 28: Vol. 94, No. 3, Winter 2016
This podcast features an interview with Dr. James G. Cusick, the curator of the P. K. Yonge Library of Florida History at the University of Florida Library and author of The Other War of 1812: The Patriot War and the American Invasion of Spanish East Florida, published by the University of Georgia Press. He edited the special issue on the first part of the 19th century. In this podcast, Dr. Cusick discusses the authors and articles that appear in this issue.
Original 27-minute and 9-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2016: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
Andersonville Prison, Andersonville, Georgia
Florida Historical Quarterly, Episode 29: Vol. 94, No. 4, Spring 2016
This podcast features an interview with Brad Massey, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Florida, about his article on the Florida phosphate industry and the political controversy surrounding its arrangement with the Soviet Union in 1974.
Original 24-minute and 18-second audio podcast by Daniel S. Murphree, 2016: The Florida Historical Quarterly, Florida Historical Society, Cocoa, Florida.
This passenger list for the Irénée Du Pont on October 8, 1942. Otis F. The Irénée Du Pont, which was an American Steam merchant C-2 class ship. Florida veteran, Otis Francis Potts, served on the Irénée Du Pont around 1942 as a Armed Naval Guard for the civilian vessel. The vessel visited places such as London, United Kingdom, Cape Town, South Africa, and Karachi, Pakistan, in its effort to supply the Allied forces with various goods at the Karachi Airfield. A U-boat sank the Irénée Du Pont on March 17, 1943. Otis Francis Potts, otherwise known as “Lucky,” was born on October 8, 1923, to Helen Merrit and Lester Potts. The family moved from his birthplace of Perry, Florida, to Washington, North Carolina, by 1930. Potts joined the United States Navy on September 19, 1941, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He served as a Naval Armed Guard for civilian transport and merchant ships, supplying the Allied war effort. Potts was discharged as Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Petty Officer in 1945. After the war, he joined the construction business as a general contractor. He married Norma Kendall after the war, and they had a daughter in 1963. Potts passed away on April 26, 1996 and is buried in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original passenger list.
Fifteenth Census Population for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1930
The Fifteenth United States census records for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for 1930. The Census divides the population by categories of Name, age, sex, race, marital status, occupants and relation to head of house, whether the home is owned or rented, value of home or rent, whether home is a farm residence, whether the home has a radio, college attendance, literacy, birthplace and birthplace of parents, citizenship status, language spoken before coming to United States, year of immigration, occupation or business, class of worker, whether worked the previous day, military status, and war or expedition participated in. A notable resident listed in this record is John Buckheister. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on September 6, 1929, Buckheister joined the United States Navy on January 10, 1950, five months before the start of full United States involvement in the Korean War. He served in both the Korean War and Vietnam War. After his service, he married Dorothea Mae Adams. Buckheister died on March 29, 1995, and is buried at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original census record by James F. Murphy, April 9, 1930.
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.
Original 5 x 3 inch black and white postcard: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
Brothers John and Peter Nadzeika posing in front of a home. One of the brothers sits on the other's shoulders. The Nadzeika brothers were first generation American citizens whose parents came to America from Lithuania. The Nadzeika family settled in Morris County, New Jersey, and built a farm and tavern. The farm thrived in the 1930s, becoming so essential to the area that the United States Army gave the eldest Nadzeika brother an exemption from the draft for critical civilian work on the farm. The two younger brothers pictured both enlisted into the military in 1941, in the wake of World War II. John became a Merchant Marine, and Peter became a Tech 4 in the United States Army. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original black and white photograph.
Ancestry.com
Music--New York (State)--New York--20th century
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.
Postcard depicting Memorial Hall in Zephyrhills . 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.
Report of Changes of Naval Aviation Cadet Selection Board, Seattle, Washington, June 1943
The Report of Changes listing the Navy personnel for the Naval Aviation Cadet Selection Board in Seattle, Washington, in June 1943. The current location saw the personnel at the United States Receiving Station, United States Naval Training and Distribution Center (TADCEN) at Camp Elliott in San Diego, California. The form includes the names and ranks of the personnel. A notable person listed in the report is Raymond D. Nelson. Nelson was born to Danish immigrants in Brooklyn, Iowa, on August 9, 1920. On December 27, 1939, he joined the United States Navy. He reached the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade by the time he retired on October 3, 1946. He served on the USS MacDonough and USS Birmingham. Nelson is buried at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original report of changes.
Daily Personnel Diary for the USS Utina (ATF-163). The document includes gains, losses, miscellaneous, name, file or service number, rank or rating, change abbreviation, and description of and authority for change. A notable person listed is Denver Purtee. Born in Scioto, Ohio, on November 22, 1925, Purtee joined the United States Navy at 17 years old on December 4, 1942. He trained as a diesel operator in Chicago before being assigned to the USS Wyandot (AKA-92). When he retired from the Navy, Denver Purtee had reached the rank of Engineman Chief Petty Office. On June 17, 1948, he married Evelyn Irene George in Washington D.C. He passed away on November 15, 1991, and is buried at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original daily personnel diary.
Report of Changes of U.S.S. Beaverhead (AK-161)
The Report of Changes listing the Navy personnel on the USS Beaverhead on March 8, 1946. The form includes the names and ranks of the personnel on board the final report. The Navy decommissioned the ship after more than a year of service in the Pacific. The ship eventually docked in Norfolk, Virginia. A notable person listed on the muster roll is John Andes. Andres was born in Paris, France, on August 9, 1926. After immigrating to Queens, New York with his parents, Andes enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of seventeen, with his parents’ permission. After his training, he received his assignment aboard the USS Beaverhead on January 3, 1945. The ship served in the Pacific until March 8, 1946. Initially starting as a Fireman Second Class (F2c), by the time of the ships decommissioning, Andres held the rank of Motor Machinist’s Mate Third Class (MOMM3). After the war, Andres returned to New York, marrying Joan Marguerite Keast having one son Jack and two daughters, Yvonne and Susette. He worked as an electrical engineer for Burroughs Corporation, one of the innovators in early computing technology. In 1988, he and his family moved from Elmont, New York, to New Port Richey, Florida. On May 12, 1996, Andres died at the age of sixty-nine. He is buried in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
The Report of Changes listing the Navy personnel on the USS Springfield on September 9, 1944. The form includes the name, service number, rank, date and place of enlistment, and the branch of service for each person. A notable person listed in the report is Willard Kenneth Paeplow. Paeplow was born on June 6, 1926, in Buffalo, New York. On April 21, 1944, just before his eighteenth birthday, he joined the United States Navy, where he served until June 1947. During his enlistment, Paeplow served on the USS Springfield (CL-66). He was present when the ship escorted President Franklin Delano Roosevelt to the Malta Conference in January 1945. Paeplow enlisted in the United States Navy again in June 1964, and served another twenty-two years, before retiring in June 1986. He passed away on April 22, 1993, and is buried in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
The Personnel Diary of the United States Navy, featuring the enlisted sailors on board the USS Paricutin. The muster roll lists the names, field or service number, ranking and change description on June 8, 1951. A notable person listed is Charles Bourcier (1928-1996). He is listed as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate (Engine Mechanic) 3rd Class, which involved maintaining aircraft engines and their related systems. Born on October 18, 1928, Bourcier grew up in Ludlow, Massachusetts. He joined the United States Navy on January 08, 1946, serving as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class. He was honorably discharged on November 7, 1948, and reenlisted on July 21, 1950. Bourcier served on-board the USS Princeton (CV37) and the USS Paricutin as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate (Engine Mechanic) 3rd Class. After his second discharge, Bourcier returned to his hometown in Massachusetts before moving to Central Florida, where he worked as a swimming pool maintenance man. During his time in Central Florida, he took an active interest in the Boy Scouts of America, serving as a district chairman, a member of the Central Florida Boy Scout Council, and a mentor and confidant for local youth. After divorcing his wife, Alcina, he married Melanie Gay Conway, whom he remained with for sixteen years before they divorced. However, a few months before his death, the couple remarried. Bourcier fathered nine children, his sons Daniel, Steven, Keith, and Anthony, and his daughters Denise, Charlene, Amy, Camille, and Chanin. On September 17, 1996, Bourcier passed away at the age of sixty-seven. The Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida placed a memorial headstone in his honor. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Muster Roll of the Crew of the U.S. Navy Yard, Pearl Harbor, T.H.
Page of the muster roll of the crew of the U.S. Navy Yard, in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The document lists the names, field or service number, present rating, date of enlistment, and first date received on board. The roll was compiled on June 30, 1942. A notable soldier listed in the document is Ralph Edward King (1920-1995). Born on May 2, 1920, in Sanford, Florida, King enlisted in the United States Navy on March 14, 1939. He was assigned to the Dobbin-class destroyer USS Whitney in Pearl Harbor by 1940. Approximately ninety percent of the crew were on board when the Japanese attacked on December 7, 1941. In January 1943, King and the USS Whitney were deployed into World War II. The Whitney returned to Pearl Harbor in January 1946, and sometime between then and October of the same year, King was transferred to the USS Deliver, a Diver Class Rescue and Salvage Ship. At the time of his discharge, King held the rank of Engineman Chief Petty Officer. He spent time as a Chief Engineer for the Merchant Marines. After leaving the Navy, King returned to Sanford and married his wife, Norma. In 1956, he moved to Lutz, Florida, where he would live out the rest of his days. King passed away on May 17, 1995, at the age of 75. He is memorialized at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of the original muster roll.
The war diary of William Graf Eppright (1923-1945). The diary records Eppright's activity between August 8 and August 10, 1945, which was the date that he was killed in action. The document was declassified on December 31, 2012. Born on May 3, 1923, Eppright ran track in high school. On June 30, 1942, he registered for the draft. On October 1, 1942, he began his service in the United States Navy. He served in the Domestic Service and Foreign Service. On January 27, 1945, he married Mildred Anna Brady. In August of 1945, he was assigned to the USS Siboney. On August 10, 1945, the aircraft collided in the air, and Eppright was among the six pilots and crewmen presumed lost and killed in action. He is memorialized in Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original war diary.
A newspaper column published by The Oviedo Outlook on May 26, 1977. "Over the Coffee" was a weekly column by Donna Neely and Ralph Neely. This week's column discussed the work of archaeologist Dr. Ron Wallace of Florida Technological University (FTU) in Chuluota, renovations on Oviedo City Hall, the Florida Road Department, and handicap parking. The column also includes a quote by investor and statesman Bernard Baruch and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Original newspaper column: "Over the Coffee." The Oviedo Outlook, Vol. 4, No. 40, May 26, 1977, page 2: Oviedo Historical Society, Oviedo, Florida.
Florida Technological University, Orlando, Florida
Oviedo City Hall, Memorial Building, Downtown Oviedo, Florida
The Oviedo Heritage, a supplement for The Oviedo Outlook, published on June 30, 1977. This article, by Donna Neely of the Oviedo Historical Society, chronicles the history of Oviedo, Florida. According to the article, Oviedo began on the south shore of Lake Jessup as a settlement called Solaria's Wharf. Some of its early settlers include Dr. Henry Foster, Joseph Watts, and Steen Nelson. Citrus and celery dominated the area's farmland, although Central Florida suffered a severe freeze in 1894. Oviedo suffered another disaster in 1914 when a fire wiped out much of the downtown section. Disaster hit again in 1929 with the Wall Street Crash and the beginning of the Great Depression. That same year, Oviedo's fruit crops were decimated by a fruit fly infestation. Another fire destroyed the Wheeler Fertilizer Plant in 1946. Nonetheless, Oviedo continued to grow, with new paved roads going to Geneva and Chuluota and the opening of the Citizens Bank of Oviedo in 1948. In 1949, Oviedo began receiving once-a-day bus service to Orlando from Greyhound Lines. By 1950, Oviedo was the second largest town in Seminole County, following Sanford. The Oviedo City Hall was built that same year and in 1968, Florida Technological University (present-day University of Central Florida) opened, bringing new residents to the area.
Original newspaper article: Neely, Donna. "Oviedo Began as Solaria's Wharf." The Oviedo Heritage, June 30, 1977: Oviedo Historical Society, Oviedo, Florida.
First Baptist Church of Oviedo, Oviedo, Florida
First United Methodist Church of Oviedo, Oviedo, Florida
Wheeler Fertilizer Plant, Oviedo, Florida
Something to Think About: Rape Ruling a Travesty
A newspaper article published by The Oviedo Outlook on May 26, 1977. The article discusses a recent ruling by Circuit Judge Robert McGregor regarding a rape case in the Seminole-Brevard Circuit Court. According to the article, Judge McGregor dismissed sexual battery charges against a convicted rapist because the victim did not resist "to the degree that the law expects." Larry Neely, the author of the article, argues that the ruling is in appropriate and that victim's rights should be respected.
Original newspaper article: Neely, Larry. "Something to Think About: Rape Ruling a Travesty." The Oviedo Outlook, Vol. 4, No. 40, May 26, 1977, page 2: Oviedo Historical Society, Oviedo, Florida.
Seminole County Criminal Justice Center, Sanford, Florida
The Oviedo Heritage, a supplement for The Oviedo Outlook, published on June 30, 1977. This article chronicles the history of the Citizens Bank of Oviedo, which Originally opened on East Broadway Street on July 2, 1946. The land on which the bank sits was Originally the Bill Browning celery farm. The Citizens Bank of Oviedo took in over half a million dollars in deposits on its first day, with B. F. Wheeler as president, C. R. Clonts as vice president, and Charles Shaffer as the cashier. In 1949, the bank moved to the Memorial Building, which is located at 38 South Central Avenue. On March 25, 1974, the Citizens' Bank of Oviedo reopened at 156 Geneva Drive. The bank is now the Citizens' Bank of Florida with locations throughout Seminole County.
Original newspaper article: Neely, Larry. "Citizens Bank Founded in 1946." The Oviedo Heritage, June 30, 1977: Oviedo Historical Society, Oviedo, Florida.
Citizens Bank of Oviedo, Oviedo, Florida
Sanford Grammar School Report Card for Christine Kinlaw, 1964-1965
Sanford Grammar School report card for fifth-grader Christine Kinlaw during the 1964-1965 school year. Students were evaluated by Elizabeth Neiman in subjects such as reading, language, spelling, handwriting, social studies, arithmetic, science, health education, physical education, music, art, and Spanish. The principal for that school year was Freeman E. Baggett. Located at 301 West Seventh Street in Sanford, Florida, Sanford Grammar School was originally established as Sanford High School in 1902. The building was designed by W. G. Talley in the Romanesque revival style. Due to an increasing student population, a new school building was constructed on Sanford Avenue in 1911. The original building on Seventh Street served as Westside Grammar Elementary School, which was later renamed Sanford Grammar School. In 1984, the building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places and converted into the Student Museum. The building reopened as the University of Central Florida's Public History Center in 2012. In 1927, a high school campus was designed by Elton J. Moughton in the Mediterranean revival style and constructed at 1700 French Avenue. The school reopened on January 10 and was renamed Seminole High School. In 1960, the high school moved to a new campus at 2701 Ridgewood Avenue and the former building on French Avenue was converted to Sanford Junior High School, which was later renamed Sanford Middle School. The old building was demolished in the summer of 1991 and replaced by a $5.77 million school complex. As of 2013, Seminole High School offers various Advanced Placement courses, the Academy for Health Careers, and the International Baccalaureate Programme for students.
Original report card by Elizabeth Neiman: Private Collection of Christine Kinlaw-Best.
RICHES Podcast Documentaries, Episode 25: The Railways of Central Florida
Episode 25 of RICHES Podcast Documentaries: The Railways of Central Florida. RICHES Podcast Documentaries are short form narrative documentaries that explore Central Florida history and are locally produced. These podcasts can involve the participation or cooperation of local area partners. Episode 25 centers on the history of railways in Central Florida and includes an interview with Phil Cross, historian for the National Railway Historical Society and host for the Central Florida Railroad Museum.
Original 13-minute and 43-second podcast by Nicholas Neimi, February 27, 2012: "RICHES Podcast Documentaries, Episode 25: The Railways of Central Florida." RICHES Podcast Documentaries, Orlando, Florida.
RICHES of Central Florida
Sixteenth Census Population Schedule for Lake County, Election Precinct 19
The U.S. Census population schedule for Election Precinct 19 just outside of Tavares, Florida, in 1940. Individuals are identified by name, titles and terms, gender, age, marital status, race, relationship to head of household, birthplace, birth year, the last place of residence, and occupation. A notable resident listed in this record was Major Jack Cameron Heist (1919-1944), who appears on row 71. Maj. Heist was born to Henry S. Heist and Christina Heist on November 6, 1919, in Eustis, Florida. He received his commission on May 29, 1941, to serve in World War II. Maj. Heist was an Ammunition Officer for the XIX Corps. He died during his service in an ambush on September 2, 1944, near Thiant, France. He is currently buried at the Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France. Maj. Heist is one of 85 Florida residents interned at Epinal.
Digital reproduction of original census record by Marion M. Nelliauis, April 23, 1940. https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VTH1-65N.
Nelson and Company Bound Ledger - Black Hammock
A bound ledger for the Nelson and Company Packing Plant covering the Black Hammock region from May 23, 1936 to November 13, 1948. The ledger inlcudes transactions with Sanford Atlantic, the Citizens Bank of Oviedo, J.D. Jinkius, O.P. Herndon, and Doudrey. The company was originally founded by Steen Nelson and Gus Nelson and called Nelson Brothers. The company changed its name to Nelson and Company after it became a three-way partnership between the brothers and Benjamin Franklin Wheeler. In 1923, Wheeler became sole owner after buying out the company. The 80-acre historic district was incorporated in September of 2001 and encompasses four of Nelson and Company's historic buildings.
Original 188-page bound ledger: Private Collection of Nelson and Company.
A bound ledger for the Nelson and Company Packing Plant covering the Black Hammock region from November 18, 1913 to May 23, 1936. The ledger inlcudes transactions with W.H. Browning, W.A. Beasly, Davis and Giles, E.A. Douglas, Clerk of Circuit Court, the Citizens Bank of Oviedo, the National Bank of Jacksonville, United States Mortgage and Trust Co., and First National Bank of Sanford. The company was originally founded by Steen Nelson and Gus Nelson and called Nelson Brothers. The company changed its name to Nelson and Company after it became a three-way partnership between the brothers and Benjamin Franklin Wheeler. In 1923, Wheeler became sole owner after buying out the company. The 80-acre historic district was incorporated in September of 2001 and encompasses four of Nelson and Company's historic buildings.
Original 89-page bound ledger: Private Collection of Nelson and Company.
The Black Hammock Drainage District of Orange County, Florida, March 1913
The Black Hammock Drainage District of Orange County, Florida, for March 1813, Topics covered include text of the drainage laws of Florida, advertisement for letting contract, engineer's report, committee's report, general information, specifications, estimates, plans of the system, profiles, cross sections, legal description of the lands, total acreage, commencement, route, and terminus of the canals and ditches, form of contract, and form of bond to be executed.
Original 25-page paperback book: Private Collection of Nelson and Company.
Reporter-Star Publishing Company, Orlando, Florida
Descriptions Locating Canals & Ditches, Salt Creek System
A four-page packet of descriptions locating canals and ditches for the Salt Creek System in Lake Jesup, Florida, from 1913. Lake Jessup is one of the largest lakes in Central Florida, one of many that make up the St. Johns River.
Original 4-page packet: Private collection of Nelson and Company.
Salt Creek, Lake Jessup, Oviedo, Florida
List of Outstanding Tax Certificates in Black Hammock Drainage District from Creation of District to February 17, 1939
A list of outstanding tax certificates in Black Hammock Drainage District from the creation of the district to February 17, 1939. The 67-page report was compiled for the Black Hammock bond trustees. The information includes the tax sale date, certificate number, the drainage tax, total taxes,
Original 67-page report and envelope: Private Collection of Nelson and Company.
Black Hammock Drainage District, Oviedo, Florida
A special drainage district bond for the Black Hammock Drainage District. The $500 bond with 6 per cent interest is dated January 1st, 1930, and the principal due January 1st, 1938. The principal and interest are payable at the Bank of Oviedo or at any other place designated by the Board of County Commissioners. The company was originally founded by Steen Nelson and Gus Nelson and called Nelson Brothers. The company changed its name to Nelson and Company after it became a three-way partnership between the brothers and Benjamin Franklin Wheeler. In 1923, Wheeler became sole owner after buying out the company. The 80-acre historic district was incorporated in September of 2001 and encompasses four of Nelson and Company's historic buildings.
Original 2-page special drainage district bond: Private Collection of Nelson and Company.
A Citizens Bank of Oviedo checkbook from Nelson and Company containing stubs made out to various recipients, many of which include Riverside hospital. The dates of the written checks range from April 15, 1948, through May 8, 1948. The company was originally founded by Steen Nelson and Gus Nelson and called Nelson Brothers. The company changed its name to Nelson and Company after it became a three-way partnership between the brothers and Benjamin Franklin Wheeler. In 1923, Wheeler became sole owner after buying out the company. The 80-acre historic district was incorporated in September of 2001 and encompasses four of Nelson and Company's historic buildings.
Original 18-page checkbook: Private Collection of Nelson and Company.
Fifteenth Census Population for Medina Village, Orleans County, New York, 1930
The Fifteenth United States Census records for Orleans County, Medina Village, New York, for 1930. The census divides the population into categories of name, age, sex, race, marital status, occupants and relation to head of house, whether the home is owned or rented, value of home or rent, whether home is a farm residence, and whether the home has a radio. It also records college attendance, literacy, birthplace and birthplace of parents, citizenship status, language spoken before coming to United States, year of immigration, occupation or business, class of worker, whether they worked the previous day, military status, and the war or expedition participated in. A notable resident listed in this record is John J. Munson (1916-1996). Munson was born in 1916 in Medina, New York. After attending the Naval Academy, Munson enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II. After the war, he worked as an attaché to the Kremlin. He left the Navy with the rank of Captain and worked for the Aerospace Technical Institute in 1968. Munson passed away on June 7, 1996, and is buried at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original census record by Natalie Newell, April 10, 1930.
Application for Seaman’s Certificate of American Citizenship
The Application for Seaman’s Certificate of American Citizenship for Harry Carson in November 1923. It lists Carson's place and date of birth, the last ship he was employed on, the next ship he would be employed on, as well as a description of his appearance and a photograph. The application refers to his honorable discharge as proof of his birth and refers to a letter submitted to provide proof of his future employment as an assistant storekeeper on a United States Shipping Board (USSB) ship. Harry Carson was born in Russia in 1897 and immigrated to the United States in 1907. Carson and his family were Jewish, and they most likely immigrated to the United States in order to flee persecution and violence that they faced as Jews living in Russia in the early twentieth century. After arriving in the United States, Harry grew up in Rochester, New York. In April of 1915 he enlisted in the US Army and served in the 12th Cavalry Regiment until August of 1919. During his service he may have been sent to New Mexico in order to patrol the US-Mexican border. After his service, Carson worked as an intelligence agent for the FBI. He eventually moved to Florida and passed away in 1989. Carson is buried at Florida National Cemetery. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original application for seaman's certificate of American citizenship, November 10, 1923.
Certificate of Death for Charles Crummer, 1934
The certificate of deawth of Charles Crummer (1894-1934). He died in a veterans' hospital in Johnson City, Tennessee. The record includes the facility's name, as well as Crummer's name, age, race, and time and cause of death. Charles Crummer was born on August 24, 1894 in Palatka, Florida to his parents Walter and Maria. He lived there with his parents and five brothers until sometime between 1900 and 1910, when the family moved to St. Augustine. After receiving an education that allowed him to read and write, Crummer worked as a chauffeur. On April 1, 1918, he was drafted for service, and served for a short time in the 151st Depot Brigade, a unit responsible for training and processing new recruits. He then became part of Company A of the 36th Infantry, which he served in from April 24, 1918 until his discharge on April 2, 1919. After being discharged, Crummer returned home to his mother and continued to work. Between 1920 and 1927, he and his new wife, Jennie, moved to their own house, where they lived together until Crummer was admitted to a veterans' sanitorium in Johnson City, Tennessee for chronic pulmonary issues and a spinal condition. He lived there until his death in 1934 due to complications with diabetes and septicemia. Crummer is buried in the St. Augustine National Cemetery at Plot A Grave 38. In 2017, the University of Central Florida was one of three universities selected to launch the National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Legacy Program Project. The program engaged a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in the Florida National Cemetery available to the public. The project engages UCF students in research and writing and fosters collaboration between students, faculty and local Central Florida schools to produce interactive curriculum for k-12 students. The corresponding website exhibit uses RICHES Mosaic Interface to create a digital archive of related data. The public can use the project-developed augmented-reality app at more than 100 gravesites at the Florida National Cemetery, where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original certificate of death, August 22, 1934: Tennessee State Library and Archives, Tennessee Death Records, 1908-1958, Roll Number 8.
RICHES Podcast Documentaries, Episode 18: Winter Garden's 20th Century: Boom, Bust and Rebirth
Citrus fruit industry--Florida--Orange County
Episode 18 of RICHES Podcast Documentaries: Winter Gardens 20th Century: Boom, Bust and Rebirth. RICHES Podcast Documentaries are short form narrative documentaries that explore Central Florida history and are locally produced. These podcasts can involve the participation or cooperation of local area partners. Episode 18 explores the demographic changes of Winter Garden, Florida, during the 20th century. Originally a small agricultural hub, Winter Garden grew into a bustling suburbia in a short period of time. This episode focuses on Winter Garden's period of boom, bust and rebirth. Present-day Winter Garden was originally inhabited by Native Americans thousands of years before European colonization. Early European settlers began arriving in the area around Lake Apopka around 1845 with the encouragement of the Armed Occupation Act for settlement in the new State of Florida. The community began to grow rapidly when the Orange Belt Railway arrived in 1886 and citrus became the area's cash crop. A train depot was constructed in 1893 and the town was named Winter Garden. The area also became a popular tourist in the 1920s, nicknamed the "large-mouth bass capital." Winter Garden continued to thrive on citrus, proclaiming itself the largest citrus shipping point in the world during the 1940s. The citrus industry continued to boom throughout World War II, but quality dropped as Lake Apopka became polluted.
Original 16-minute and 35-second podcast by Nicholas Niemi, November 16, 2011: "RICHES Podcast Documentaries, Episode 18: Winter Garden's 20th Century: Boom, Bust and Rebirth." RICHES Podcast Documentaries, Orlando, Florida.
Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, Winter Garden, Florida