Cactus, Bloodrock, Potliquor, Dr. John, and Heaven Ticket Stub
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Cactus, Bloodrock, Potliquor, Dr. John (b. 1940), and Heaven at the Tangerine Bowl, located at 1610 West Church Street in Downtown Orlando, Florida, on April 1, 1972. The ticket was $4 and the show began at 1 p.m. The Tangerine Bowl has been also known as Orlando Stadium, the Citrus Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium and is currently known as Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. It opened in 1936 and has been home to numerous sporting and entertainment events throughout its existence. Cactus is an American hard rock and blues band formed in 1969 in New York. They were known as "the American Led Zeppelin." Bloodrock was an American hard rock and blues band from Fort Worth, Texas, that enjoyed considerable success from 1969 to 1975. Potliquor was a Southern Rock band from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, that formed in 1969 and disbanded in 1979. Dr. John, the stage name of Malcolm John "Mac" Rebennack, is an American multi-instrumentalist wh.ose music blended New Orleans blues, jazz, rock, and R&B Heaven was a British jazz-influenced rock band that formed in 1968 and disbanded shortly after the release of their 1971 album.
Original ticket stub: Private Collection of Carl Knickerbocker.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Jethro Tull at the Orlando Sports Stadium, which was also known as the Eddie Graham Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. Jethro Tull was a British progressive rock group that was active from 1967 to 2001 and led by flautist/vocalist/guitarist Ian Anderson (b. 1947). The concert took place on July 7, 1971, at 8 PM and cost $4. Once host to some of the top names in sports and music, the Orlando Sports Complex was demolished by the Orange County Building Department in 1995 due to code violations.
Orlando Sports Stadium, Orlando, Florida
A ticket stub for concert featuring Leo Kottke (b. 1945) at the Great Southern Music Hall, located at 46 North Orange Avenue in Downtown Orlando, Florida, on August 16, 1979. The ticket was $6.50 and the show began at 8 p.m. Leo Kottke is an innovative acoustic guitar virtuoso from Athens, Georgia, debuting his first album of folk music in 1969. An American folk artist, Kottke's music also blends elements of blues and jazz. The Great Southern Music Hall, which changed its name to the Beacham Theater after renovations in 1976, was a music venue located in Downtown Orlando, Florida. The theater originally opened in 1921 as a vaudeville and movie theater.
Great Southern Music Hall, Orlando, Florida
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Edgar Winter (b. 1946) at the Orlando Sports Stadium, which was also known as the Eddie Graham Sports Complex. Edgar Winter is multi-instrumentalist American musician whose music encompasses many genres, including rock, blues, jazz, soul, and pop. The concert took place on Saturday, April 3, 1971, at 8:00 p.m. and cost $3.50. Once host to some of the top names in sports and music, the Orlando Sports Complex was demolished by the Orange County Building Department in 1995 due to code violations.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring The Philip Glass Ensemble at the Enzian Theater, located at 1300 South Orlando Avenue in Maitland, Florida, on April 10, 1985. Ticket prices were $15 in advance and $20 at the door. The Philip Glass Ensemble was founded by prolific experimental minimalist composer Philip Glass (b. 1937) in 1968. Aside from the Philip Glass Ensemble, Glass has written operas, symphonies, musical theatre, concertos, and Academy Award-nominated film scores. The concert took place at the Enzian Theater, a non-profit art house theater.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring The Rolling Stones at the Tangerine Bowl, located at 1610 West Church Street in Downtown Orlando, Florida, on October 25, 1981. The ticket was $15.60, including tax, and the show began at noon, with the doors opening at 9 a.m. with Van Halen as the opening act. The concert was promoted by Cellar Door Productions and Beach Club Productions. The Tangerine Bowl has been also known as Orlando Stadium, the Citrus Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium and is currently known as Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. It opened in 1936 and has been home to numerous sporting and entertainment events throughout its existence. The Rolling Stones is a British rock and blues band formed in 1962 that has become one of the most successful musical acts of all time. The band enjoyed the height of their commercial and critical success during the 1960s and 1970s. The Rolling Stones 1981 Tour was the first time a band had a corporate sponsorship, allowing Jōvan Musk to pay them "several million dollars" to sponsor the tour without the band having to officially endorse the company. The band explained that "selling out" to corporate sponsors would help keep ticket prices down. The average ticket price was $16 and the tour grossed $50 million in tickets sales, the highest of any tour in 1981. This would be the last time the band toured the United States until 1989.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Steppenwolf at the Orlando Sports Stadium, which was also known as the Eddie Graham Sports Complex. Steppenwolf is a Canadian-American rock group that enjoyed worldwide success in the late 1960s and early 1970s, coining the term "heavy metal." Their Top 10 songs include "Born to Be Wild," "Magic Carpet Ride," and "Rock Me." The concert took place on November 14, 1970, at 8 p.m. and cost $4. Once host to some of the top names in sports and music, the Orlando Sports Complex was demolished by the Orange County Building Department in 1995 due to code violations.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring The Who at the Tangerine Bowl, located at 1610 West Church Street in Downtown Orlando, Florida, on November 27, 1982. The ticket was $15.75, including tax, and the show began at 3 p.m., with the gates opening at noon. The opening acts were Joan Jett (b. 1958) and the Black Hearts and the B-52's. The ticket warns concert goers, "DO NOT ARRIVE EARLY." The Tangerine Bowl has been also known as Orlando Stadium, the Citrus Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium and is currently known as Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. It opened in 1936 and has been home to numerous sporting and entertainment events throughout its existence. The Who is an English rock band that are considered to be one of the greatest musical influences in rock music of the 20th century. Formed in 1964, they have gone on to sell over 100 million albums and continue to be one of the highest grossing touring bands of all time. Although The Who have since reunited several times, the band announced that this 1982 tour would be their final. The Orlando show was the first of the band's second North American leg, after a four week break.
Original ticket stub for the Who at the Tangerine Bowl: Private Collection of Carl Knickerbocker.
A ticket stub for Rock Super Bowl II, featuring the Eagles, Jimmy (b. 1946) & the Coral Reefer Band, Hall & Oates, and Andrew Gold (1951-2011), at the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando, Florida. The concert took place on July 3, 1977, and was presented by Beach Club Cellar Door. The ticket price was $10, including tax. From 1977 to 1983 the Tangerine Bowl hosted a series of music festivals known as "Rock Super Bowls." The Tangerine Bowl has also been known as Orlando Stadium, the Citrus Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium and is currently known as Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. It opened in 1936 and has been home to numerous sporting and entertainment events throughout its existence. The Tangerine Bowl is located at 1 Citrus Bowl Place in Orlando, Florida.
Original ticket stub: Private Collection of Julie Wahl.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Bryan Adams (b. 1959) at the Orange County Civic Center on May 25, 1985, at 8 p.m. The ticket price was $13.50, including tax. The concert was presented by Beaver Productions and the Beach Club. The Orange County Civic Center, also known as the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) and the Orange County Convention and Civic Center (OCCCC) is located at 9800 International Drive in Orlando, Florida. Adams is a Grammy Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter who has enjoyed over three decades of success. Selling over 100 million records, he is the best-selling Canadian rock artist of all time.
Orange County Civic Center, Orlando, Florida
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Kenny G (b. 1956) at the Bob Carr Theater on November 23, 1987, at 8 p.m. The ticket price was $17.50, including tax, and the concert was presented by Fantasma and Villa Nova. The Bob Carr Theater has been a center for performing arts since 1926 and is located at 401 West Livingston Street in Orlando, Florida. Kenny G is an American soprano saxophonist who plays adult contemporary and smooth jazz music. He is the biggest-selling instrumental musician of the modern era, selling over 75 million records.
Jimmy Buffett and Steve Miller Ticket Stub
A ticket stub for Rock Super Bowl V, featuring Jimmy Buffett (b. 1946) and The Coral Reefer Band, The Steve Miller Band, The Little River Band, Randy Meisner (b. 1946), and South Paw, at the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando, Florida. The concert took place on August 5, 1978, and was presented by the Beach Club. The ticket price was $10, including tax. From 1977 to 1983 the Tangerine Bowl hosted a series of music festivals known as "Rock Super Bowls." The Tangerine Bowl has also been known as Orlando Stadium, the Citrus Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium, and is currently known as Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. It opened in 1936 and has been home to numerous sporting and entertainment events throughout its existence. The Tangerine Bowl is located at 1 Citrus Bowl Place in Orlando.
Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band Ticket Stub
A ticket stub for a concert featuring The Outlaws at the Orlando Sports Stadium, which was also known as the Eddie Graham Sports Complex. The Outlaws is a rock and country band from Tampa, Florida, that had two hits in 1975 with their songs "Green Grass and High Tide" and "There Goes Another Love Song." This concert took place on December 29, 1977, at 8 p.m. The show was presented by the Beach Club. Once host to some of the top names in sports and music, the Orlando Sports Complex was demolished by the Orange County Building Department in 1995 due to code violations.
A ticket stub for Rock Super Bowl III, featuring Peter Frampton (b. 1950), Kansas, The J. Geils Band, and Rick Derringer (b. 1947), at the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando, Florida. The concert took place on September 4, 1977, and was presented by the Beach Club. The ticket prices were between $8.50 and $12.50, including tax. From 1977 to 1983 the Tangerine Bowl hosted a series of music festivals known as "Rock Super Bowls." The Tangerine Bowl has also been known as Orlando Stadium, the Citrus Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium and is currently known as Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. It opened in 1936 and has been home to numerous sporting and entertainment events throughout its existence. The Tangerine Bowl is located at 1 Citrus Bowl Place in Orlando.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Nazareth at Orlando Seminole Jai-Alai Fonton in Fern Park, Florida. The opening bands were Mahogany Rush and Sammy Hagar (b. 1947). The concert took place on February 24, 1978, and was presented by Albert Promotions and FM 107. The ticket price was $6.50. Orlando-Seminole Jai Alai Fronton was built in 1962 and hosted concerts, graduations, and events in addition to jai-alai matches, which remained popular through the mid-1980s, when its popularity began to decline. The building was re-branded Orlando Live Events (OLE) in 2014. It is located at 6405 South U.S. Route 17-92 in Fern Park.
Orlando-Seminole Jai Alai Fronton, Fern Park, Florida
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Steppenwolf at the Orlando Sports Stadium, which was also known as the Eddie Graham Sports Complex. The concert took place on New Year's Eve in 1977. The show was presented by TMT Productions and BJ Booking Agency. The opening bands were Somf City, Friends, and Cantamos Jazz Band, and the ticket price was $5. Once host to some of the top names in sports and music, the Orlando Sports Complex was demolished by the Orange County Building Department in 1995 due to code violations.
A newspaper clipping about a concert featuring Nazareth with Mahogany Rush and Sammy Hagar (b. 1947) at the Orlando-Seminole Jai Alai Fronton in Fern Park, Florida. The concert took place on February 24, 1978, and was presented by Albert Promotions and FM 107. The ticket price was $6.50. This clipping contains a photograph of the members of Nazareth, from left to right, bottom to top: Darrell Sweet (1947-1999), Manny Charlton (b. 1941), Dan McCafferty (b. 1946), and Pete Agnew (b. 1946). Orlando-Seminole Jai Alai Fronton was built in 1962 and hosted concerts, graduations and events in addition to jai-alai matches, which remained popular through the mid-1980s, when its popularity began to decline. The building was rebranded Orlando Live Events (OLE) in 2014. It is located at 6405 South U.S. Route 17-92 (U.S. 17-92) in Fern Park.
Original newspaper article: "Nazareth tops bill." February 24, 1978: Private Collection of Julie Wahl.
A newspaper article about Rock Super Bowl III, featuring Peter Frampton (b. 1950), Kansas, The J. Geils Band, and Rick Derringer (b. 1947) at the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando, Florida. The concert took place on September 4, 1977, and was presented by the Beach Club. The ticket prices ranged between $8.50 and $12.50, including tax. This page is the continuation of an article on the front page. From 1977 to 1983 the Tangerine Bowl hosted a series of music festivals known as "Rock Super Bowls." The Tangerine Bowl has also been known as Orlando Stadium, the Citrus Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium, and is currently known as Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. The stadium opened in 1936 and has been home to numerous sporting and entertainment events throughout its existence. The Tangerine Bowl is located at 1 Citrus Bowl Place in Orlando.
Original article: "Frampton - From 1-A." 1977: Private Collection of Julie Wahl.
A newspaper article about Rock Super Bowl III, featuring Peter Frampton (b. 1950), Kansas, The J. Geils Band, and Rick Derringer (b. 1947) at the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando, Florida. The concert took place on September 4, 1977, and was presented by the Beach Club. The ticket prices ranged between $8.50 and $12.50, including tax. This clipping includes a photograph of the band members of Kansas: Steve Walsh (b. 1951), Phil Ehart (b. 1951), Rich Williams (b. 1950), Dave Hope (b. 1949), Kerry Livgren (b. 1949), Robby Steinhardt (b. 1950). From 1977 to 1983 the Tangerine Bowl hosted a series of music festivals known as "Rock Super Bowls." The Tangerine Bowl has also been known as Orlando Stadium, the Citrus Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium, and is currently known as Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. The stadium opened in 1936 and has been home to numerous sporting and entertainment events throughout its existence. The Tangerine Bowl is located at 1 Citrus Bowl Place in Orlando.
Original article: "Kansas to play Sunday."1977: Private Collection of Julie Wahl.
A newspaper clipping about Rock Super Bowl III, featuring Peter Frampton (b. 1950), Kansas, The J. Geils Band, and Rick Derringer (b. 1947) at the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando, Florida. The concert took place on September 4, 1977, and was presented by Beach Club. The ticket prices ranged between $8.50 and $12.50, including tax. From 1977 to 1983 the Tangerine Bowl hosted a series of music festivals known as "Rock Super Bowls." The Tangerine Bowl has also been known as Orlando Stadium, the Citrus Bowl, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium, and is currently known as Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. The stadium opened in 1936 and has been home to numerous sporting and entertainment events throughout its existence. The Tangerine Bowl was located at 1 Citrus Bowl Place in Orlando.
Original article: "NEXT SUNDAY." 1977: Private Collection of Julie Wahl.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Mahogany Rush at the Lakeland Civic Center in Lakeland, Florida. The concert took place on April 20, 1980, at 7 p.m. and was presented by Cellar Door Concerts. The ticket price was $6.50, including tax. The Lakeland Civic Center is a multi-purpose arena that opened in 1974, and is located at 701 West Lime Street in Lakeland.
Lakeland Civic Center, Lakeland, Florida
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Head East at the Great Southern Music Hall, located at 46 North Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. The concert took place on February 10, 1979, at midnight. The ticket price was $6.50 for general admission, including tax. The Great Southern Music Hall, which changed its name to the Beacham Theater after renovations in 1976, was a music venue located at 46 North Orange Avenue in Downtown Orlando. The theater opened on December 9, 1921, as a vaudeville and movie theater.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Rick Derringer (b. 1947) at the Great Southern Music Hall, located at 46 North Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida, on August 19, 1978. The show began at 11 p.m. The Great Southern Music Hall, which changed its name to the Beacham Theater after renovations in 1976, was a music venue located at 46 North Orange Avenue in Downtown Orlando. The theater opened on December 9, 1921, as a vaudeville and movie theater.
A ticket stub for a concert featuring Atlanta Rhythm Section at the Orlando Sports Stadium, which was also known as the Eddie Graham Sports Complex. The concert took place on February 23, 1979. The show was presented by Zeta 7 and produced by Bishop Productions. The doors opened at 7 p.m. and the showtime was at 8 p.m. The ticket price was $5.00, including tax. Once host to some of the top names in sports and music, the Orlando Sports Complex was demolished by the Orange County Building Department in 1995 due to code violations.
A photographic postcard of the Masonic Temple, located on 205 East Central Boulevard in Orlando, Florida. The building was constructed in the 20th Century Commercial style in 1925 and was dedicated on January 13, 1926. The original owner was the Free and Associated Masons of Orlando from 1926 until 1982. The building was purchased in 1982 for $660,000 and underwent extensive modifications, including an additional two stories. The building now serves as professional offices. The First Unitarian Church of Orlando's Unity Chapel, located at 1 North Rosalind Avenue in Downtown Orlando, Florida, can be seen to the far left of the postcard. On January 8, 1911, a congregation of Universalist Unitarians, lead by Reverend Eleanor Gordon, formed in the home of Caroline Groninger Gore, the second wife of former Mayor Mahlon Gore, which was located at 211 Lucerne Circle. The church was formally organized the following year in the home of Edward McNeill, located at 309 Robinson Street. The congregation held some of its earliest services in the Lucerne Theatre before holding its first service at Unity Chapel on February 16, 1913. Unity Chapel was designed by architects Ida Annah Ryan and Isabel Roberts in the Spanish Colonial Revival-style. The chapel was dedicated on March 16. By 1954, the congregation had outgrown Unity Chapel and moved to a new church located at 1901 East Robinson Street. In 1957, the chapel's last service took place. Sam Murrell constructed a new building, called the Murrell Building, that was designed by Richard Boone Rogers in 1957.
Original 3 x 5 inch black and white photographic postcard: Private Collection of Joy Wallace Dickinson.
Masonic Temple, Downtown Orlando, Florida
The historic marker for the PICO Hotel, located at 209 North Oak Avenue in Sanford, Florida. The building was constructed in 1887 for Henry B. Plant (1819-1899), President of the Plant Investment Company (PICO). The onion-shaped dome located on the southwest corner of the roof resembled a Turkish minaret. The dome was destroyed by a severe thunderstorm in the 1950s and was never replaced. The PICO Hotel served as the terminal hotel for a railroad and two steamship lines owned by Plant. One of the hotel's famous guests was President Calvin Coolidge (1872-1933), who spent the night at the PICO Hotel during his visit to Sanford.
Original historic marker, December 19, 2010.
Lunch Wagon at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (U.S.)
Launch complexes (Astronautics)--Florida
During Project Mercury, the program to launch the first American into space, astronauts would visit the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (AFS) in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and would often eat lunch at a lunch truck because of time limitations and lack of places to eat. This photograph shows Mercury 7 astronauts Wally Schirra (1923-2007), the fifth man launched in Sigma 7, and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), the sixth man launched in Faith 7. This photograph also shows Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler and others getting lunch at a "roach coach" at the Cape Canaveral AFS during a visit for Project Mercury.
Original black and white photographic print: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Chronopoints
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14, Cape Canaveral, Florida
President John F. Kennedy Touring Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
High-profile projects, such as Project Mercury, typically get a great deal of attention from Presidential Administrations. This presidential visit occurred on September 11, 1962, a month before the fifth Mercury flight. President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) toured Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) the day before he travelled to Houston, Texas, and addressed an audience at Rice University to proclaim that "we choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard," thus beginning the American space program's effort to put humans on the Moon.
Original black and white photographic print, September 11, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Fowler, Calvin D.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14), where some of the United States' first astronauts were launched into space, had a heavily built concrete and steel blockhouse which housed the actual rocket firing button. This blockhouse was built to withstand a rocket exploding on or close to the launchpad, which can seen in the background of the third photograph. Two months before Leroy "Gordo" Gordon Cooper, Jr.'s flight on the Mercury-Atlas rocket named Faith 7, the launch site stood ready.
Original black and white photographic prints, March 15, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse Launch Tote Board
The Launch Tote Board at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) detailed the rocket launches carried out at the facility. Posted outside of the blockhouse, it showed the vehicle type, designation and launch date.
Original black and white photographic print, March 15, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Workstation Containing Analog Electronics in Rack at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Used during the launches of the Mercury-Atlas rockets—from the first American to orbit earth, John Glenn (b. 1921), to the last Project Mercury flight with Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), Jr.—this was one of the workstations in the blockhouse at Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). Electronic equipment used in the LC-14 Blockhouse was placed in racks to maximize space utilization, similar to what one might see today in a computer server room. One main difference is that the electronics of Project Mercury era were analog rather than digital, and the displays and controls were analog as well, such as analog meters and knobs.
Rocket Monitoring and Launch Workstations at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
The Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) Blockhouse was where Mercury-Atlas rockets were launched using analog electronic equipment to monitor various aspects of the rocket. One might note that these Project Mercury workstations had no video screens, as there might be today, only analog gauges and meters to view conditions, as well as dials, switches, and buttons to issue commands to the rockets. This equipment was placed in electronics racks, similar to those used for computers in server rooms today, to save space and allow each workstation to have all the equipment to accomplish its function.
GD/Astro Greeters See Kennedy on Cape Trip
A newspaper article on President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963)'s visit to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) on September 11, 1962. Presidents typically use such visits to gain firsthand understanding of important programs. President Kennedy toured the Cape Canaveral launch facilities the day before he announced the project to place a man on the Moon.
Original newspaper article: "GD/Astro Greeters See Kennedy on Cape Trip." September 11, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Skid Strip, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Cal Fowler and Others at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler with others at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). Dr. Fowler is photographed second from the right. Dr. Fowler was the manager of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 during the final three launches of Project Mercury. From the blockhouse at Complex 14, after confirming the mission was a go, Dr. Fowler pressed the button to launch Wally Schirra (1923-2007), Scott Carpenter (1925-2013) and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) into space aboard their respective rockets. He is pictured chatting with workers at the launch site.
A newspaper article published by The Plattsburgh Press-Republican on October 4, 1962. Dr. Calvin D. Fowler was the manager of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 during the final three launches of Project Mercury. In this newspaper photograph, he is shown sitting at the Launch Conductor's console in the blockhouse at Launch Complex 14 (LC-14), launching Wally Schirra (1923-2007)'s Mercury-Atlas rocket, named Sigma 7, into space. Dr. Fowler would go on to do the same for Gordon Cooper (1927-2004).
Original newspaper article: "A Great Trip in a Sweet Bird." The Plattsburgh Press-Republican, Vol. LXIX, no. 45, October 4, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
The Plattsburgh Press-Republican
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) was the sixth American in space and the fourth to orbit the Earth. Cooper flew in the Faith 7 spacecraft for Project Mercury. At the time, he was in space for 34 hours, longer than any American. With his second space flight in Project Gemini, Cooper led all astronauts and cosmonauts in total accumulated time in space. U.S. Air Force (USAF) Colonel Cooper was selected in 1959 as one of the Mercury 7, which was the first group of American astronauts, after a detailed examination of him physically and psychologically, and the successful achievement of the qualifying requirements. Before entering the space program, Cooper was an accomplished pilot, aeronautical engineer, and test pilot. In this self signed color photograph, Cooper is posed in his space suit standing next to a scale model of his spacecraft with the American flag behind him.
Original 8 x 10 inch color photographic print: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Cape Canaveral, Florida
A newspaper article about a meeting that occurred on October 9, 1962, before the launch of Walter "Wally" Marty Schirra, Jr. in Sigma 7 between representatives of the Aerospace Corporation; the Burroughs Corporation; Rocketdyne, Inc.; General Dynamics/Astronautics; McDonnell Aircraft Corporation; General Electric Company; the U.S. Air Force (USAF); and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NAS). Photographed, from left to right, are Jack Wiegand of the Aerospace Corporation; George Liner of the Burroughs Corporation; Major C. J. McCarthy of the Air Force's 6555th Aerospace Test Group; Lee Solid of Rocketdyne, Inc.; Major J. R. Mullady of the 6555th, Dr. Calvin D. Fowler of General Dynamics/Astronautics; Porter Brown of NASA; Ralph Gendielle of the McDonnell Aircraft Corporation; and John Savarie of General Electric Company. The racks of electronics and control consoles provides the backdrop.
Original newspaper article: "Pre-Launch Meeting." October 9, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin "Cal" D. Fowler.
John Glenn Returning to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 After Mercury 7 Flight
As the third Mercury 7 astronaut, John Glenn (b. 1921) became the first American to orbit the Earth on February 20, 1962. On February 23, he returned to Patrick Air Force Base (Patrick AFB), accompanied by Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson (1908-1973), and was reunited with his wife Annie Glenn (b. 1920) and their children. Glenn, his wife, and Vice President Johnson then motorcaded to Cape Canaveral and participated in a parade through Cocoa Beach, Florida. Upon arrival at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Cananveral AFS), they greeted President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963), who had flown into Cape Canaveral, landing at the Skid Strip. From there, President Kennedy and Glenn were driven to Hangar S at Cape Canaveral, where the President presented him the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Distinguished Service Medal. They then toured Mercury Control Center and then greeted launch workers at Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). At the launch site, Glenn presented the President with a hard hat that workers wore when at the launchpad.
Original color photographic print, February 23, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler and T. J.O'Malley Observing Project Mercury
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, T. J. O'Malley (1915-2009) and others observing Mercury-Atlas 9 (MA-9)'s spacecraft, Faith 7, for Project Mercury. Faith 7 was piloted by Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), on May 15, 1963. After the launch, the team assembled in the blockhouse to observe the mission on monitors. Dr. Fowler, who had just launched Cooper into orbit, is seated along with O'Malley, who had previously launchedJohn Glenn (b. 1921)'s rocket, Friendship 7.
Wally Schirra (1923-2007) was the fifth American astronaut in space and the third to orbit the Earth. On October 3, 1962, Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, who was the manager and launch conductor for Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14), confirmed a go for launch with the Project Mercury team in the launch complex's blockhouse and pressed the button to ignite the Mercury-Atlas rocket named Sigma 7. After his successful flight, U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Schirra thanked Dr. Fowler for his efforts with a signed photograph.
Original 8 x 10 color photographic print: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Mercury-Atlas Management Team at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
A group photograph of the Mercury-Atlas launch management team. Left center in the back row is Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, who launched astronauts Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), Wally Schirra (1923-2007), and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004). The other men in the photographed are unidentified.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse's Launch Conductor Console
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler seated at the launch conductor's console in the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Canaveral AFS) Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) blockhouse for Mercury-Atlas launch. Fowler would conduct the final three Project Mercury launches from this position.
Launch Control Room at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
During a launch of a Mercury-Atlas mission, these workstations were occupied by workers who monitored critical systems on the rocket and maintained lines of communications with essential locations around the world. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust equipment and the rocket. The monitors above the workstations allowed for a video feed on the launch vehicle at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Canaveral AFS) Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) blockhouse.
Electronic Equipment Racks at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Electronic equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Canaveral AFS) Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) blockhouse. The equipment was mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are and was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket.
Rack of Electronic Equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Electronic equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Canaveral AFS) Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) blockhouse, mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are, was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket.
To assure proper checks and approvals by all appropriate individuals, small custom inked stamps, called hallmarks, were used by Apollo Project workers to ensure that checks were performed, and each worker who conducted one approved of the quality or conformance of the inspected item. These hallmarks are visible on equipment and reports of that era.
Original certificate: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
John F. Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Using Periscope at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Launch Conductor Dr. Calvin D. Fowler posed for these publicity photographs on May 2, 1962, leading up to the launch of the Aurora 7 Mercury-Atlas 7 orbital mission, manned by Commander Scott Carpenter (1925-2013). These images are part of a series of publicity stills by General Dynamics/Astronautics division, the company responsible for Project Mercury vehicles and their launches, that were typically distributed to the media for their use. While in the blockhouse, the only way Dr. Fowler had any way of directly viewing the launchpad was through one of four periscopes. This allowed for quick direct and safe observations of the launch vehicle as it sat on the pad.
Original black and white photographic print, May 2, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
General Dynamics Corporation
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Using Launch Console at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Launch Conductor Dr. Calvin D. Fowler posed for this publicity photograph on May 2, 1962, leading up tothe launch of the Aurora 7 Mercury-Atlas 7 orbital mission, manned by Commander Scott Carpenter (1925-2013). This image is part of a series of publicity stills by General Dynamics/Astronautics division, the company responsible for Project Mercury vehicles and their launches, that were typically distributed to the media for their use. Dr. Fowler is in his Launch Conductor's position in the blockhouse, where the button to ignite the Atlas rocket was located.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Visiting Launchpad at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Launch Conductor Dr. Calvin D. Fowler posed for these publicity photographs on May 2, 1962, leading up to the launch of the Aurora 7 Mercury-Atlas 7 orbital mission, manned by Commander Scott Carpenter (1925-2013). These images are part of a series of publicity stills by General Dynamics/Astronautics division, the company responsible for Project Mercury vehicles and their launches, that were typically distributed to the media for their use. Dr. Fowler is standing in front of the Mercury-Atlas vehicle as it sits on the launchpad.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Liquid Oxygen TankING Equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Liquid oxygen tanking equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) Blockhouse, mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are, was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket. This controlled the liquid oxygen tanking operations on the Atlas rocket.
Television Control Equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
The television Control equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse, mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are, was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket. This panel control the remote cameras located at the launchpad.
Launch Control Simulator Console at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
tHE Launch Control Simulator at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse. This console likely allowed the launch team in Launch Complex 14's blockhouse to practice countdowns under simulated conditions. This could have allowed drills for normal and abnormal conditions during the launch.
Playback Head Selector Equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Electronic equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse, mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are, was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket. Ampex made magnetic tape drives and recorders, which were used to record data and/or audio.
Astronaut Wally Schirra and B. G. MacNabb
Astronaut Wally Schirra (1923-2007) named his boat Sigma 7, after the spacecraft which took him into orbit. In the photograph, Schirra shows the watercraft to General Dynamics/Astronautics director of operations B. G. MacNabb at what is believed to be Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's industrial area near Hangar S.
Original black and white photographic print, October 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Exiting Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler and an unidentified person exiting the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse. The tote board, which recorded the launches from Launch Complex 14 (Lc-14), can be seen above them.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper with Management Team at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
In the first photograph, astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), pictured in the center, standing with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) managers on the right and contractor managers on the left. Then men are pictured in front of the unassembled Mercury-Atlas vehicle at the launch site at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14. B. G. MacNabb, General Dynamics/Astronautics director of operations, is standing on the far left. When the Mercury 7 astronauts, such as Cooper, visited the launch site, they wore distinctively colored helmets so that they could be identified at a distance. Cooper, on such a visit before his flight, is viewing the unerected Atlas rocket from the gantry in the second photograph. The Atlas was America's first rocket capable of lifting a man into orbit. Faith 7's Atlas booster eventually lifted it into orbit, allowing Cooper to circle the Earth 22.5 times.
Original black and white photographic print, April 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launch Site, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Atlas Rocket Under Construction at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
In the final launch of Project Mercury, the Atlas launch vehicle sits on its side before being fully assembled and lifted vertically on the gantry. The Atlas was America's first rocket capable of lifting a man into orbit. Faith 7's Atlas booster eventually lifted it into orbit, allowing astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) to circle the Earth 22 and a half times.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Interviewed After Astronaut Gordon Cooper's Spaceflight
A contemporary newspaper article about Gordon Cooper's (1927-2004) spaceflight, including an interview with Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, the man who launched him. In particular, the article discusses Cooper's most recent spaceflight on the Atlas 130D, the process of launching spacecraft into outer space, the famous aviator Wiley Post, and Project Mercury.
Original newspaper article: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler and Wayne Reid at Launch Conductor's Workstation in Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler sitting at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14's Launch Conductor's workstation, is depicted ghere with Wayne Reid, of the Aerospace Corporation, around the time of Wally Schirra's (1923-2007) Sigma 7 launch.
B. G. MacNabb with Astronaut Gordon Cooper
B. G. MacNabb, General Dynamics/Astronautics director of operations, greeting Mercury 7 astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) during a practice, the day before a launch was scrubbed or launch day at the launchpad at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14. Cooper, walking in his air conditioned space suit, was scheduled to embark on his 22.5-orbit mission. This photograph was also signed by Cooper.
President John F. Kennedy with B. G. MacNabb at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
During one visit to the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14, President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) talking with General Dynamics/Astronautics director of operations B. G. MacNabb. Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler can be seen to the right, behind the police officer in the foreground.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad
While visiting the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad before the launch of the Faith 7 Mercury-Atlas mission, astronaut Astronaut listens to Günter Wendt (1923-2010) of McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, the man who supervised spacecraft preparation on the launchpad. Wendt was famous for his meticulous standards, which won the trust of the astronauts. General Dynamics/Astronautics Operations Manager B. G. MacNabb is seen in the center of the first photograph. In the second photograph, MacNabb is pictured on the left, Wendt is seen in the center, and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler is photographed on the right.
Launch Crew in the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad Blockhouse
T. J. O'Malley (1915-2009), who launched astronaut John Glenn (b. 1921) into orbit, is photographed on the left, and Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, who launched Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), Wally Schirra (1923-2007), and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), is seen on the right. O'Malley, Dr. Fowler, and other unidentified members of the launch crew are photographed here at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad Blockhouse.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler as a Test Conductor at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 11
Before being manager of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 and launching three astronauts into space, Dr. Calvin D. Fowler worked as a test conductor for Atlas missile tests at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 11.
Original black and white photographic print, December 1960: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 11, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Fuel Loading Test at Fairchild Air Force Base
General Dynamics/Astronautics conducting a fuel loading test for the Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at Fairchild Air Force Base, near Spokane, Washington.
Launch Crew Members in Front of Sigma 7 Mercury-Atlas Launch Vehicle at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
A group of launch crew members in front of the Sigma 7 Mercury-Atlas launch vehicle at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad. Photographed, from the left to right, is: an unidentified individual, of Pan American Safety
Don Pechi, Complex Superintendent for Pan American
Charlie Hodsden, Quality Control Supervisor
Calvin "Cal" D. Fowler, General Dynamics Launch Complex 14 Manager
George P. (last name unidentified), Missile Engineer
Nancy (last name unidentified), Secretary for Pan American
John Filer, Pad Supervisor for Pan American
(first name unidentified) Whitehurst, Second Lieutenant for the U.S. Air Force's 6555th Aerospace Test Group
(first name unidentified) Watson, Pa Supervisor for Pan American
Art Franklin, Complex Supervisor for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mel Honeycutt, First Lieutenant for the Air Force's 6555th
and (first name unidentified) Meatti, Foreman for the General Dynamics Complex.
Original black and white photographic print, October 8, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin "Cal" D. Fowler.
Launch Control Center and Vehicle Assembly Building at John F. Kennedy Space Center
The Launch Control Center (LCC) and the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at the John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Merritt Island, Florida. The Apollo missions and later Space Shuttle missions were launched at the LCC and the Saturn V rocket was assembled at the VAB.
Launch Control Center, John F. Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida
Vehicle Assembly Building, John F. Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida
Warren III Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Site at Warren Air Force Base
The Warren III Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch site, located at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base (Warren AFB), was built in 1960 to house the Atlas D ICBM. This "coffin" site is the current location of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and was active from 1960 to 1964.
Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Trying on a Space Suit at John F. Kennedy Space Center
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, the man who launched three of the Mercury-Atlas missions to orbit the Earth, trying on a Apollo-era space suit at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida.
Thousands of Hallmarks - One Successful Mission
To assure proper checks and approvals by all appropriate individuals, small, custom-inked stamps called "hallmarks" were used by Apollo Project. Each worker who conducted one approved of the quality or conformance of the inspected item. These hallmarks are visible on equipment and reports of that era.
George C. Marshall Space Flight Center, Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Alabama
Engineering Hallmark in Honor of Apollo 17
To assure proper checks and approvals by all appropriate individuals, small custom inked stamps called hallmarks were used by Apollo workers to ensure that checks were performed, and each worker who conducted one approved of the quality or conformance of the inspected item. These hallmarks are visible on equipment and reports of that era. This certificate was in honor of Apollo 17 and signed by the mission's astronauts: Eugene Cernan (b. 1934), Ronald Evans (1933-1990), and Harrison Schmitt (b. 1935)
Original certificate, June 7, 1972: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Applying His Engineering Hallmark
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, the man who launched the final three Mercury-Atlas missions, is photographed here, applying his hallmark stamp to what appears to be a commemorative poster during the Apollo era. To assure proper checks and approvals by all appropriate individuals, small custom inked stamps called hallmarks were used by Apollo workers to ensure that checks were performed, and each worker who conducted one approved of the quality or conformance of the inspected item. These hallmarks are visible on equipment and reports of that era.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper and Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Signing Rocket
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 launch manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler sign the Atlas rocket, which would launch Faith 7 into orbit. Dr. Fowler and Cooper were at the General Dynamics/Astronautics factory in San Diego, California, to accept the Atlas booster. Cooper was to be the final astronaut of Project Mercury, as it paved the way for Project Gemini. Dr. Fowler would manage the spacecraft preparation and ignite the Atlas launch vehicle. Cooper would become, for a short time, the space endurance record holder.
General Dynamics/Astronautics Factory, San Diego, California
An Atlas core arriving at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Skid Strip. The core was flown from the manufacturer, Convair/General Dynamics, to Cape Canaveral, where it was unloaded and prepared for launch. This particular core was used for one of the four Mercury Atlas missions.
The stainless steel skin of an Atlas booster is displayed after recovery. This debris is suspected of being part of the Atlas used to boost John Glenn (b. 1921) with his Friendship 7 spacecraft into orbit. The skin is in such a degraded condition, because it is extremely thin, as the rocket maintained rigidity by internal fuel pressure, and the booster fell from a high altitude.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper Recovered After Splashdown
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) completed his 22.5 orbit flight in the Faith 7 Mercury spacecraft by manually landing in the Pacific Ocean on May 16, 1963, closer than any other flight had landed with reference to the recovery ship. A dehydrated Cooper, still in Faith 7, is seen after the recovery aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kearsarge. Cooper not only set a record of staying in space for over 34 hours, but he would prove a trained pilot was an important ingredient in space flight.
Original black and white photographic print, May 16, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 13 Launch Tote Board
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 13 (LC-13) was the sister site of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) and was used for unmanned Atlas intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM), rocket tests, and Atlas-Agena launches. As was the tradition, a launch tote board, posted at the blockhouse, listing the launches and rocket configurations was typical for launch sites.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 13 Blockhouse, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Major General Ben Ivan Funk Presents Award Citations to T. J. Joseph O'Malley and Dr. Calvin D. Fowler
Major General Ben Ivan Funk (1913-2012), of the U.S. Air Force, presents citations noting service to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) space program to aerospace engineer T. J. Joseph O'Malley and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) Manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler. Photographed, from left to right, is O'Malley, Maj. Gen. Funk, and Dr. Fowler.
Space Systems Division Headquarters, Air Force Systems Command, United States Air Force, El Segundo, California
Time Capsule Placed at Mercury 7 Monument
The time capsule is located at the Mercury 7 Monument, which was placed at the entrance to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). Contents of the time capsule are said to include John Glenn's (b. 1921) Marine Corps pilot wings, capsule blueprints, and photographic film documentation. Standing to the head of the site is a sculpture of the emblem of Project Mercury. The "7" signifies the original 7 Mercury astronauts, known as the Original Seven and Astronaut Group 1. The astronauts were Alan Shepard (1923-1998), Gus Grissom (1926-1967), John Glenn, Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), Wally Schirra (1923-2007), Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), and Deke Slayton. The marker, which was not in place when the photograph was taken, quotes President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963): "One of the most complex tasks ever presented to man in this country...the achievement of manned flight in orbit around the Earth." President Kennedy requested that the time capsule be opened 500 years, hence in 2464.
Mercury 7 Monument, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Thor-Able Mission Being Prepared for Launch at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 17
The Thor-Able rocket sits on the pad being prepared for launch. These missions were launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 17 (LC-17).
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 17, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Apollo 8 Awaiting Liftoff at John F. Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A
Apollo 8 sitting on John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) in the time leading up to launch. This was to be the first launch at Kennedy Space Center and at LC-39A. Apollo 8 was the first manned launch of the Saturn V rocket, which produced over 7.5 million pounds of thrust. Additionally, Apollo 8 was the first manned spacecraft to leave earth orbit and successfully complete orbiting of the Moon.
Original color photographic print, December 1968: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
John F. Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A, Merritt Island, Florida
SA-500F Full-Scale Saturn V Mock Up at John F. Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A
Before rolling a functional Apollo-Saturn launch vehicle, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) used a full-scale mock up made from "boilerplate" parts to test assembly and rolling the rocket to the pad. SA-500F also was used for a propellant transfer "wet" test although the rocket was inert. The foreground of the photograph shows the propellant tank farm and water pressure systems.
Original black and white photographic print, June 28, 1966: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper and Faith 7 Capsule at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), the astronaut aboard the last flight of Project Mercury, observing capsule preparations at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14), as unidentified others look on. Cooper was to become the last American to go into space alone, while setting new endurance records for the American space program. Faith 7, the name his spacecraft was dubbed, launched successfully and circled the earth 22.5 times. While in space, Cooper was one of the early practitioners of conducting scientific observations in space.
Years after his historic Mercury-Atlas 9 mission, astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) autographed this photograph of himself for the U.S. Space Walk of Fame Museum in Titusville, Florida. During his Faith 7 flight, Cooper orbited the earth 22.5 times.
Original black and white photographic print, May 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
U.S. Space Walk of Fame Museum, Titusville, Florida
Günter F. Wendt and Astronaut Gordon Cooper at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Photographed on the left is Günter F. Wendt, who was in charge with launch pad preparations, with astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), photographed in a space suit, at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). It is not known if this photograph was taken on launch day or for a practice day. Cooper successfully launched and completed his mission.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper and Dr. Calvin D. Fowler at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) with Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14's manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, who would launch Cooper into orbit, observing the rocket delivery. In the final launch of Project Mercury, Cooper's Atlas launch vehicle sat on its side before being fully assembled and lifted vertically on the gantry. The Atlas was America's first rocket capable of lifting a man into orbit. Faith 7's Atlas booster eventually lifted it into orbit, allowing Cooper to circle the Earth 22.5 times.
Friendship 7 Lift Off at the Launch Pad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
John Glenn's (b. 1921) Mercury-Atlas vehicle (MA-6) lifting off the launch pad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) on February 20, 1962. This was the first manned flight of a Mercury-Atlas spacecraft, which occurred after a few delays. Glenn would become the first American to orbit the Earth. Glenn was later feted in parades from Cocoa Beach, Florida, to New York City, New York.
Original black and white photographic print, February 20, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Sandy Shugart became the President of Valencia College, one of the country's largest colleges, in 2000, and led them to win the prestigious Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence in 2011. As a folk artist and poet, Shugart believes these seemingly unrelated endeavors are integral aspects of his life journey. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #159: Music is Life" on January 29, 2015.
Original 8-minute and 4-second audio/video recording of Sandy Shugart, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, January 29, 2015: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
WUCF-TV
WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
One of Central Florida's most unique and talented drummers/percussionists, Enmanuel Chacin, shares his thoughts on what he considers to be the blueprint of life: music. Chacin, who is blind, grew up in Caracas, Venezuela, where he claims the culture is driven by drums and percussion. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #161: We've Got the Beat" on February 12, 2015.
Original 5-minute and 31-second audio/video recording of Enmanuel Chacin, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, February 12, 2015: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Daniel Heitz first took the stage at the Alley blues club in Sanford, Florida, when he was 11 years old. Over the next six years, he became one of the most impressive classical blues guitarists in Central Florida. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #145: The Call of Music" on October 2, 2014.
Original 5-minute and 25-second audio/video recording of Daniel Heitz, WUCF-TV, Sanford, Florida, October 2, 2014: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
After performing for years as the "Piano Man" on numerous cruise ships, Ted White grew tired of travel and built a unique musical contraption. Since then, Ted performs regularly on the beach on his bicycle/keyboard that he built to resemble a grand piano. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #130" on May 15, 2014.
Original 4-minute and 46-second audio/video recording of Song Peddler, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, May 15, 2014: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Flagler Boardwalk, New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Noble "Thin Man" Watts (1926-2004) was a blues and jazz saxophonist from DeLand, Florida, who worked with some of the biggest names in jazz, blues, and rock, including Buddy Holly (1936-1959), Dinah Washington (1924-1963), Jerry Lee Lewis (b. 1935), Lionel Hampton (1908-2002), Chuck Berry (b. 1926), Johnny Mathis (b. 1935), and the Everly Brothers. Watts moved back to DeLand in the mid-1960s, where he remained until his death in 2004. The "Thin Man" Watts Jazz Festival began earlier that year and has continued to grow in the years since. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts.
Original 5-minute and 2-second audio/video recording of Jazz Fest, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, April 21, 2014: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Mark Hodgson & the Cosmic Blues Trio
African American Museum of the Arts, DeLand, Florida
When he comes home from his job as a roofer, Joe Muni of New Smyrna Beach crafts custom guitars using recycled wood. Every guitar is unique and many contain portraits within the body. Customers can either select from wood collected by Muni or bring their own wood, often with sentimental value, to Desolation Row Guitars and he will turn it into a functioning instrument. Desolation Row Guitars is located at 507 Ball Street in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #151: Musical Masterpieces" on November 13, 2014.
Original 3-minute and 38-second audio/video recording of Joe Muni, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, November 13, 2014: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Desolation Row Guitars, New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Cassadaga Spiritualist Camp, Cassadaga, Florida
WUCF Artisodes Short: Orlando Philharmonic
The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, Central Florida's resident professional orchestra, has appeared in over 125 performances each season since it began in 1993. The orchestra has been performing 30 Young People's Concerts annually since its first year, giving thousands of elementary school students the opportunity to experience live orchestral music, many of them for the first time. The project was devised by Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) and United Arts of Central Florida. The concerts take place at the orchestra's home, the Bob Carr Theater, which is located at 401 West Livingston Street in Orlando, Florida. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #115: Students and Teachers" on January 16, 2014.
Original 4-minute and 11-second audio/video recording of Joe Muni, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, January 16, 2014: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Orlando Philharmonic
United Arts of Central Florida, Maitland, Florida
Orange County Public Schools, Downtown Orlando, Florida
Conductor, multi-instrumentalist, composer, designer, and educator Benoit Glazer, believes art and music belong to everyone. When he isn't conducting Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba, he runs Timucua, which is an in-home concert series that is free to the public. Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba is performed at the La Nouba Theater in Downtown Disney, located at 1478 Buena Vista Drive in Orlando, Florida. Timucua is located at 2000 South Summerlin Avenue in Orlando. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #157: Music, Passion & All That Jazz" on January 15, 2015.
Original 4-minute and 33-second audio/video recording of Benoit Glazer, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, January 15, 2015: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Musician and producer Matt Saunders studies Irish music and dance at the University of Limerick in Limerick, Ireland. Saunders combines traditional Celtic music with electronic dance music, playing the Irish flute and composing dance beats. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #106: Music is in the Air" on November 11, 2013.
Original 3-minute and 9-second audio/video recording of Matt Saunders, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, November 11, 2013: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
University of Limerick, Limerick, Munster, Ireland
WUCF Artisodes Short: Bach Festival Society
The Bach Festival Society, the third oldest continuously-operating Bach Festival in the United States, was founded in 1935 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the birth of Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750). In addition to the annual Bach Festival, the society includes Choral Masterworks, Visiting Artists performances, and educational and community outreach programs. The current Artistic Director and Conductor, Dr. John Sinclair, discusses a performance of Sir Michael Tippett's (1905-1998) "A Child of Our Time," in remembrance of the 75th anniversary of Kristallnacht. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #109: Get the Message" on November 28, 2013.
Original 5-minute and 30-second audio/video recording of Bach Festival Society, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, November 28, 2013: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Bach Festival Society
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Bach Festival Society, Winter Park, Florida
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Washington, DC
Members of the Orlando-based heavy metal band, ATLAS, discuss how their genre makes up for the fact that heavy metal is not mainstream with a dedicated fan base. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #139: Music Music Music" on July 31, 2014.
Original 3-minute and 38-second audio/video recording of ATLAS, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, July 31, 2014: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
The Boondocks Bar & Music Venue, Melbourne, Florida
One of 66 affiliates of National CARES Mentoring Movement, Greater Orlando CARES, or GO CARES, uses a low-cost, high-impact group-mentoring model to nurture under-resourced children, cultivate their self-esteem, increase their academic achievement, and develop their communications, problem-solving, and other life skills. GO CARES presented the first Jazz in the Hills on September 27, 2014, providing children the opportunity to display their love and talent for jazz and expose many others to the musical culture. The event took place at Greater Orlando CARES on the Well of Hope Cornerstone's 5.3-acre campus in Pine Hills, an historical African-American neighborhood in Orlando, Florida. This Artisode also explores the positive effects that music has on brain development and learning. WUCF-TV is a Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television station serving the Central Florida television market. The station, operated by the University of Central Florida, is the region's sole PBS member station, reaching an estimated population of 4.6 million people in its aerial viewing area. Arts and culture take center stage in WUCF-TV's weekly local series: "WUCF Artisodes." Each episode airs Thursdays at 8 p.m., featuring a local artist or initiative, as well as stories on the arts from across the country. Developed in partnership with 28 PBS stations nationwide, this series is part of WUCF-TV's mission to give everyone a front-row seat to the arts. This Artisodes Short originally aired as part of "WUCF Artisodes #147: Development through Diversity" on October 16, 2014.
Original 4-minute and 8-second audio/video recording of Jazz in the Hills, WUCF-TV, Orlando, Florida, October 16, 2014: WUCF-TV, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Greater Orlando CARES, Well of Hope Cornerstone, Orlando, Florida