World War II Honor List of Dead and Missing Military Personnel from Pinellas and Polk Counties
A list of U.S. Army servicemen reporter either killed or missing during World War II. This particular page shows servicemen from Pinellas and Polk Counties, Florida. A notable soldier listed in this record is Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944), who was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida. Hancock managed a Great Atlantic &amp
P) store in Haines City until he enlisted in the 45th Infantry Division's 179th Infantry Regiment. Sgt. Hancock served initially in Africa in 1943, until the 45th Infantry Division's participation in Operation Husky for the Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky. The division then went on to participate in the Allied invasion of Italy, where Sgt. Hancock was injured. He was returned to duty in February of 1944 to tour southern France. On November 1, 1944, Sgt. Hancock went Missing in Action (MIA) after serving in the Allied invasion of Southern France, codenamed Operation Dragoon. He was eventually buried in Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original record, 1946: National Archives Identifier 305285, Record Group 407, Modern Military Records LICON, Textual Archives Services Division, National Archives at College Park, College Park, Maryland.
Application for Marriage License for Solomon Callis Sturdivant and Dorothy Ann Simpson
An application for a marriage license for Solomon Callis Sturdivant (1915-1945) and Dorothy Ann Simpson. Sturdivant was born to James Sturdivant and Mary Sturdivant on April 25, 1914, in Wytheville, Virginia. Private first class Sturdivant was drafted by the U.S. Army on December 29, 1942, while he was residing in Atlantic Beach. During World War II, he served as a member of the 231st American Antiaircraft Artillery Searchlight Battalion. PFC Sturdivant was Killed in Action (KIA) in France on March 5, 1945. He is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original handwritten application, June 10, 1937: Image Number 01183, Digital Folder Number 004706872, GS Film Number 2109281, State Archives of Florida, Tallahassee, Florida.
World War II Veteran Memorial at Bull Memorial Park
The World War II Veteran Memorial at Bull Memorial Park in Atlantic Beach, Florida. This memorial commemorates soldiers from the Atlantic Beach area who were killed during World War II. One notable soldier memorialized is Private first class Solomon Callis Sturdivant (1914-1945). Sturdivant was born to James Sturdivant and Mary Sturdivant on April 25, 1914, in Wytheville, Virginia. PFC Sturdivant was drafted by the U.S. Army on December 29, 1942, while he was residing in Atlantic Beach. During World War II, he served as a member of the 231st American Antiaircraft Artillery Searchlight Battalion. PFC Sturdivant was Killed in Action (KIA) in France on March 5, 1945. He is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original color digital image.
Bull Memorial Park, Atlantic Beach, Florida
A newspaper article about the status of Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944), a U.S. Army soldier from Auburndale, Florida. Sgt. Hancock was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale. He enlisted in the 45th Infantry Division's 179th Infantry Regiment. Sgt. Hancock served initially in Africa in 1943, until the 45th Infantry Division's participation in the Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky. The division then went on to participate in the Allied invasion of Italy, where Sgt. Hancock was injured. He was returned to duty in February 1944 in southern France. On November 1, 1944, Sgt. Hancock went Missing in Action (MIA) after serving in the Allied invasion of Southern France, codenamed Operation Dragoon. He was eventually buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Photocopy of original newspaper article: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
Private First Class Solomon Callis Sturdivant
Private first class Solomon Callis Sturdivant (1914-1945). Sturdivant was born to James Sturdivant and Mary Sturdivant on April 25, 1914, in Wytheville, Virginia. PFC Sturdivant was drafted by the U.S. Army on December 29, 1942, while he was residing in Atlantic Beach, Florida. During World War II, he served as a member of the 231st American Antiaircraft Artillery Searchlight Battalion. PFC Sturdivant was Killed in Action (KIA) in France on March 5, 1945. He is now buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&amp
GRid=56375799">black and white photograph.
Memorial Services Program for Sergeant John B. Hancock
The program for memorial services for Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944) held at the First Baptist Church of Auburndale in Auburndale, Florida. Hancock was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida, on September 2, 1945. Hancock managed a Great Atlantic &amp
P) store in Haines City until he enlisted in the 45th Infantry Division's 179th Infantry Regiment. Sgt. Hancock served initially in Africa in 1943, until the 45th Infantry Division's participation in the Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky. The division then went on to participate in the Allied invasion of Italy, where Sgt. Hancock was injured. He was returned to duty in February 1944 in southern France. On November 1, 1944, Sgt. Hancock went Missing in Action (MIA) after serving in the Allied invasion of Southern France, codenamed Operation Dragoon. He was eventually buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Photocopy of original 2-page program, 1945: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
First Baptist Church of Auburndale, Auburndale, Florida
World War II Honor List of Dead and Missing Military Personnel from Duval and Escambia Counties
A list of U.S. Army servicemen reported either killed or missing during World War II. This particular page shows servicemen from Duval and Escambia Counties, Florida. A notable soldier listed in this record is Captain William H. Smith (1920-1945). Smith was born on November 28, 1920, as the youngest of three children to John Seward Smith and Eva Wilds Smith. The Smiths lived at 419 Smith Street in Jacksonville, Florida. Three days before his 20th birthday, Smith enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve during World War II. He became a member of the combat infantry of the 63rd Infantry Division's 255th Infantry Regiment. Capt. Smith was Killed in Action (KIA) on January 3, 1945, in the Ardennes region, repelling German forces during Operation Nordwind, the last German offensive of the war. After his death, Capt. Smith was awarded the Combat Infantrymen Badge, effective January 2, 1945, as well as a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his sacrifice. He is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
World War II Highlight of: The "Blood and Fire" Route
A battle map of major battles fought by the 63rd Infantry Division, nicknamed "Blood and Fire," during World War II. One notable member of this regiment was Captain William H. Smith (1920-1945). Smith was born on November 28, 1920, as the youngest of three children to John Seward Smith and Eva Wilds Smith. The Smiths lived at 419 Smith Street in Jacksonville, Florida. Three days before his 20th birthday, Smith enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve during World War II. He became a member of the combat infantry of the 63rd Infantry Division's 255th Infantry Regiment. Capt. Smith was Killed in Action (KIA) on January 3, 1945, in the Ardennes region, repelling German forces during Operation Nordwind, the last German offensive of the war. After his death, Capt. Smith was awarded the Combat Infantrymen Badge, effective January 2, 1945, as well as a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his sacrifice. He is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original map.
Private Willis H. Hawkins (ca. 1919-1944), a resident of Istachatta, Florida. Pvt. Hawkins lived in Istachatta for much of his life and was educated up through grammar school. He worked as a semi-skilled driver or chauffeur until he enlisted in the U.S. Army on October 20, 1943. Private Hawkins served in the 3rd Infantry Division's 3rd Reconnaissance Troop. The 3rd Division participated in Operation Dragoon, in which the Allies invaded southern France, and then traveled North towards the Rhineland. Pvt. Hawkins was Killed in Action on November 2, 1944. He was awarded a Purple Heart for his service and was buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original <a href="http://findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&amp
GRid=56372895">black and white photograph.
Sixteenth Census Population Schedule for Istachatta
The census population schedule for Istachatta, 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 is Willis H. Hawkins (ca. 1919-1944). Hawkins lived in Istachatta for much of his life and was educated up through grammar school. He worked as a semi-skilled driver or chauffeur until he enlisted in the U.S. Army on October 20, 1943. Private Hawkins served in the 3rd Infantry Division's 3rd Reconnaissance Troop. The 3rd Division participated in Operation Dragoon, in which the Allies invaded southern France, and then traveled North towards the Rhineland. Pvt. Hawkins was Killed in Action on November 2, 1944. He was awarded a Purple Heart for his service and was buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original handwritten census record, May 2, 1940: Image Number 00654, Digital Folder Number 005449580, Affiliate Film Number 589, Affiliate Publication Number T627, National Archives &amp
Records Administration, Washington, D.C.
Bureau of the Census
Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944) was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida. Hancock managed a Great Atlantic &amp
P) store in Haines City until he enlisted in the 45th Infantry Division's 179th Infantry Regiment. Sgt. Hancock served initially in Africa in 1943, until the 45th Infantry Division's participation in Operation Husky for the Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky. The division then went on to participate in the Allied invasion of Italy, where Sgt. Hancock was injured. He was returned to duty in February of 1944 to tour southern France. On November 1, 1944, Sgt. Hancock went Missing in Action (MIA) after serving in the Allied invasion of Southern France, codenamed Operation Dragoon. He was eventually buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Photocopy of original newspaper article, 1944: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
Private J. B. (Jack) Hancock was Slightly Injured in Action
A newspaper article announcing that Edna P. Hancock, the wife of then-Private John B. Hancock (1913-1944) , that her husband had been injured in action on February 12, 1944. Hancock was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida. He enlisted in the 45th Infantry Division's 179th Infantry Regiment. Sergeant Hancock served initially in Africa in 1944, until the 45th Infantry Division's participation in Operation Husky for the Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky. The division then went on to participate in the Allied invasion of Italy, where Sgt. Hancock was injured. He was returned to duty in February of 1944 to tour southern France. On November 1, 1944, Sgt. Hancock went Missing in Action (MIA) after serving in the Allied invasion of Southern France, codenamed Operation Dragoon. He was eventually buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Photocopy of original newspaper article, March 1944: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
Private Francis D. Jordan (ca. 1918- 1945), likely before his deployment to Europe during World War II. Jordan was born in New York on September 15, 1918, but he migrated to Florida sometime after 1930, where he married his wife, Elise Barfield. Francis enlisted in the U.S. Army on July 11, 1944, at Camp Blanding. He was apart of the 274th infantry Regiment of the 70th Infantry Division. Pvt. Francis was Killed in Action (KIA) on February 14, 1945, during his service in France, and is currently buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France. After his death, Pvt. Francis was awarded the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.
GRid=56373345">black and white photograph.
Sixteenth Census Population Schedule for Jacksonville
The census population schedule for Jacksonville, 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 is Captain William H. Smith (1920-1945), who was born on November 28, 1920, as the youngest of three children to John Seward Smith and Eva Wilds Smith. The Smiths lived at 419 Smith Street in Jacksonville. Three days before his 20th birthday, Smith enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve during World War II. He became a member of the combat infantry of the 63rd Infantry Division's 255th Infantry Regiment. Capt. Smith was Killed in Action (KIA) on January 3, 1945, in the Ardennes region, repelling German forces during Operation Nordwind, the last German offensive of the war. After his death, Capt. Smith was awarded the Combat Infantrymen Badge, effective January 2, 1945, as well as a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his sacrifice. He is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original handwritten census record, April 29, 1940: Image Number 00654, Digital Folder Number 005449580, Affiliate Film Number 589, Affiliate Publication Number T627, National Archives &amp
Wayne County, Michigan Marriages, September 25-28, 1922
Marriage records for the Wayne County, Michigan, from September 25 September 28, 1922. A notable couple listed in this record is Claude Haskell Maddox, Sr. (b. 1895) and Nita P. Lowe (b. 1900). After marrying in Detroit, the couple had three children together: James Robert Maddox (1924-1944), William Maddox, and Claude Haskell Maddox, Jr. The Maddox family had migrated to Columbia, South Carolina, by 1930 and then to Tallahassee, Florida by 1940. The oldest son, James Maddox, enlisted into the U.S. Army's 15th Infantry Regiment of the 3rd Infantry Division during World War II. Private Maddox was Killed in Action (KIA) on October 9, 1944, and is buried at the Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original marriage record, September 1922: Division of Vital Records, Michigan Department of Human and Health Services, Lansing, Michigan.
World War I Draft Registration Card for Claude Haskell Maddox
The draft registration card for Claude Haskell Maddox, Sr. (b. 1895), who enlisted in the U.S. military during World War I. According to the registration card, Maddox was born on May 29, 1895, and was residing in Munson, Florida. Maddox later married Nita P. Maddox and had three children: Private James Robert Maddox (1924-1944), William Maddox, and Claude Haskell Maddox, Jr. I 1930, the Maddox family was residing in Columbia, South Carolina, but migrated to Tallahassee sometime before 1940. Maddox's oldest son, Pvt. James Maddox served in the U.S. Army's 15th Infantry Regiment of the 3rd Infantry Division during World War II and was Killed in Action (KIA) on October 9, 1944 and subsequently buried at the Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original handwritten draft registration card: Image Number 03943, Digital Folder Number 005150538, GS Film Number 1556927, Affiliate Publication Number M1509, National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, D.C.
World War II Honor List of Dead and Missing Military Personnel from Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, and Hillsborough Counties
A list of U.S. Army servicemen reported either killed or missing during World War II. This particular page shows servicemen from Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, and Hillsborough Counties, Florida. A notable soldier listed in this record is Willis H. Hawkins (ca. 1919-1944). Hawkins lived in Istachatta for much of his life and was educated up through grammar school. He worked as a semi-skilled driver or chauffeur until he enlisted in the U.S. Army on October 20, 1943. Private Hawkins served in the 3rd Infantry Division's 3rd Reconnaissance Troop. The 3rd Division participated in Operation Dragoon, in which the Allies invaded southern France, and then traveled North towards the Rhineland. Pvt. Hawkins was Killed in Action on November 2, 1944. He was awarded a Purple Heart for his service and was buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
World War II Honor List of Dead and Missing Military Personnel from Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, and Brevard Counties
A list of U.S. Army servicemen reporter either killed or missing during World War II. This particular page shows servicemen from Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford and Brevard Counties, Florida. A notable soldier listed in this record is Private Van Buren Porcher (d. 1944), who was born in Alachua County, Florida. Porcher was married twice in Gainesville: first to Taresa May Aldridge in 1933 and then to Hattie Smith in 1939. After enlistment, Pvt. Porcher was assigned to the U.S. Army's 448th Quartermaster Troop Transport Company on May 28, 1943. While serving in World War II, Pvt. Porcher was Killed in Action (KIA) on September, 2, 1944. He is currently buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Pensacola High School's Senior Class, 1939
A page from Pensacola High School's yearbook, Tiger's Tale for the 1938-1939 school year. In 1870, the first public school for boys in Pensacola, Florida, was organized. In 1875, a two-story building was constructed on Wright Street and the school was named the Pensacola Academy. A new building was erected on Lee Square in 1886 and the name was changed to Public School No. 1. In 1905, the school changed its name to Pensacola Senior High School. The school again moved to a new building at 500 West Maxwell Street in 1952. A notable student pictured in this yearbook is Doyle Fleming Nee (1921-1944), who attended 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. First Lieutenant 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 yearbook page: <a href="http://search.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/sse.dll?_phsrc=ctH41&amp
ml_rpos=2" target="_blank">Tiger's Tale (Pensacola, FL: 1939).
Pensacola High School, Pensacola, Florida
Marriage License and Certificate of Marriage for Van Buren Porcher and Hattie Smith
The marriage license and certificate of marriage for Van Buren Porcher (d. 1944) and Hattie Smith, who were married in Gainesville, Florida, on October 24, 1939. Porcher had previously married Taresa May Aldridge in Gainesville in 1933. Porcher was born in and enlisted from Alachua County, Private Porcher was assigned to the U.S. Army's 448th Quartermaster Troop Transport Company on May 28, 1943. While serving in World War II, Pvt. Porcher was Killed in Action (KIA) on September, 2, 1944. He is currently buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original marriage license and certificate of marriage, March 26, 1933: Image Number 01982, Digital Folder Number 004707028, GS Film Number 2115735, Florida Department of Health, Jacksonville, Florida.
Marriage License and Certificate of Marriage for Van Buren Porcher and Taresa May Alridge
The marriage license and certificate of marriage for Van Buren Porcher (d. 1944) and Taresa May Alridge, who were married in Gainesville, Florida, on March 26, 1933. In 1939, presumably after the end of the couple's marriage, Porcher remarried Hattie Smith in Gainesville. Porcher was born in and enlisted from Alachua County, Private Porcher was assigned to the U.S. Army's 448th Quartermaster Troop Transport Company on May 28, 1943. While serving in World War II, Pvt. Porcher was Killed in Action (KIA) on September, 2, 1944. He is currently buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original marriage license and certificate of marriage, March 26, 1933: Image Number 01490, Digital Folder Number 004706994, GS Film Number 2115701, Florida Department of Health, Jacksonville, Florida.
A Pocket Reference Guide: Army, Navy, Marine Corps Insignia
A pocket reference guide for insignias of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps during World War II. This reference guide was owned by Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944). Sgt. Hancock was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida. Hancock managed a Great Atlantic &amp
P) store in Haines City until he enlisted in the 45th Infantry Division's 179th Infantry Regiment. Sgt. Hancock served initially in Africa in 1943, until the 45th Infantry Division's participation in the Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky. The division then went on to participate in the Allied invasion of Italy, where Sgt. Hancock was injured. He was returned to duty in February of 1944in southern France. On November 1, 1944, Sgt. Hancock went Missing in Action (MIA) after serving in the Allied invasion of Southern France, codenamed Operation Dragoon. He was eventually buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Photocopy of original 6-page guide: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
Postcards from Sergeant John B. Hancock to Edna P. Hancock (July 1944)
A series of photographic postcards and an envelope sent from Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944) to his wife, Edna P. Hancock in July of 1944. The photographs feature various scenes in Rome, Italy. Sgt. Hancock was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida. Hancock managed a Great Atlantic &amp
P) store in Haines City until he enlisted in the 45th Infantry Division's 179th Infantry Regiment. Sgt. Hancock served initially in Africa in 1943, until the 45th Infantry Division's participation in the Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky. The division then went on to participate in the Allied invasion of Italy, where Sgt. Hancock was injured. He was returned to duty in February of 1944 in southern France. On November 1, 1944, Sgt. Hancock went Missing in Action (MIA) after serving in the Allied invasion of Southern France, codenamed Operation Dragoon. He was eventually buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Photocopy of original photographic postcards: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
Canova Galleria d'Arte Moderna, Rome, Italy
The insignia for the U.S. Army's 45th Infantry Division. The original insignia was approved in August of 1924 and featured a swastika, which was a symbol commonly used by Native Americans from the Mississippian culture. With the rise of Germany's Nazi Party, which also used a swastika, the 45th Division retired its original insignia and replaced it in 1939 with another Native American symbol called the Thunderbird. A notable member of the 45th Infantry Division during World War II. Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944) was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida. Hancock managed a Great Atlantic &amp
Photocopy of original insignia: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
A newspaper obituary announcing that Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944) had been Killed in Action (KIA) while serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. Hancock was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida. Hancock managed a Great Atlantic &amp
Photocopy of original newspaper obituary, May 1945: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
A patch for the U.S. Army's 70th Infantry Division, which was nicknamed the Trailblazers. The division was activated at Camp Adair in Oregon in 1943, and served in Europe during World War II. The 70th Division participated in the Ardennes Counteroffensive (also called the Battle of the Bulge), the Rhineland Campaign, and the Central Europe Campaign. A notable soldier in the 70th Infantry Division was Second Lieutenant Richard Lee McClintock (1921-1944), who served in the 276th Infantry Regiment. 2nd Lt. McClintock was born in South Carolina in 1914. He married Jewel McClintock before enlisting in the U.S. Army at Camp Blanding near Starke, Florida, in 1942. 2nd Lt. McClintock served in advanced party within the division called Task Force Herren, whose mission was to take defensive positions along the west bank of the Rhine to stall what would be the final German offensive in the west, Operation Nordwind. He was awarded a Purple Heart and Silver Star for "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy." 2nd Lt. McClintock was Killed in Action (KIA) on January 5, 1945, and is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of <a href="http://www.wartimepress.com/archives.asp?TID=039%2070th%20Infantry%20Division&amp
Headstone Inscription and Interment Record for First Lieutenant Frank Black Morgan
The headstone inscription and interment record for First Lieutenant Frank Black Morgan (1920-1944). 1st Lt. Morgan was born 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 Grace 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 the 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 France. A second memorial was organized by his family is at Parker Presbyterian Cemetery in Parker, Pennsylvania.
Digital reproduction of original typewritten headstone inscription and interment record.
Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial, Dinozé, France
Italian currency issued during World War II. The Italian lira (₤) was the currency used in Italy and its colonies until the Euro was adopted in 2002. This particular bill was likely used by Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944), an American soldier. Sgt. Hancock was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida. Hancock managed a Great Atlantic &amp
Photocopy of original bill: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
A typical K-ration menu during World War II. This menu was owned by Sergeant John B. Hancock (1913-1944), who served in the U.S. Army during the war. Hancock was born in Thomasville, Georgia, in 1913, but later migrated to Auburndale, Florida. He managed a Great Atlantic &amp
Photocopy of original 1-page menu: Private Collection of Linda Hughes.
Headstone Inscription and Interment Record for Private Ralph Brantley
The headstone inscription and interment record for Private Ralph Brantley (1922-1944). Pvt. Brantley was born in Georgia in 1923, but had migrated to Spartanburg, South Carolina, by 1930. By 1940, he was residing in Jacksonville, Florida. Pvt. Brantley served in the 180th Infantry Regiment of the 45th Infantry Division during World War II. He was Killed in Action (KIA) and is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Fifteenth Census Population Schedule for Spartanburg, South Carolina
The census population schedule for Spartanburg, South Carolina, 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 included in this record is Private Ralph Brantley (1922-1944). Pvt. Brantley was born in Georgia in 1923, but had migrated to Spartanburg, South Carolina, by 1930. By 1940, he was residing in Jacksonville, Florida. Pvt. Brantley served in the 180th Infantry Regiment of the 45th Infantry Division during World War II. He was Killed in Action (KIA) and is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original handwritten census record by William F. Smith, April 16, 1930: Image Number 00551, Digital Folder Number 004953480, GS Film Number 2341947, Affiliate Film Number 2213, Affiliate Publication Number T626, National Archives &amp
The census population schedule for Jacksonville, 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 included in this record is Private Ralph Brantley (1922-1944). Pvt. Brantley was born in Georgia in 1923, but had migrated to Jacksonville, Florida, by 1940. By 1940, he was residing in Jacksonville, Florida. Pvt. Brantley served in the 180th Infantry Regiment of the 45th Infantry Division during World War II. He was Killed in Action (KIA) and is buried at Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in Dinozé, France.
Digital reproduction of original handwritten census record by Irene Register, April 11, 1940: Image Number 01030, Digital Folder Number 005449614, Affiliate Film Number 623, Affiliate Publication Number T627, National Archives &amp
Draft Registration Card for First Lieutenant Frank Black Morgan
A draft registration card for 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 draft registration card, July 1, 1941.
Fifteenth Census Population Schedule for Greensburg, Pennsylvania
The census population schedule for Greensburg, Pennsylvania, 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 included in this record is First Lieutenant Frank Black Morgan (1920-1944). 1st Lt. Morgan was born in Greensburg 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 Grace 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 handwritten census record, April 16, 1930: Image Number 00023, Digital Folder Number 004953423, GS Film Number 2341890, Affiliate Film Number 2156, Affiliate Publication Number T626, National Archives &amp
Sixteenth Census Population Schedule for Greensburg, Pennsylvania
The census population schedule for Greensburg, Pennsylvania, 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 included in this record is First Lieutenant Frank Black Morgan (1920-1944). 1st Lt. Morgan was born in Greensburg 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 Grace 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 handwritten census record, April 15, 1940: Image Number 00188, Digital Folder Number 005456760, Affiliate Film Number 3630, Affiliate Publication Number T627, National Archives &amp
World War II Honor List of Dead and Missing Military Personnel from Polk, Putnam, St. Johns, and St. Lucie Counties
A list of U.S. Army servicemen reporter either killed or missing during World War II. This particular page shows servicemen from Polk, Putnam, St. Johns, and St. Lucie Counties, Florida. A notable soldier listed in this record is 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.
Certificate of Marriage for Merrill Hart McGlamery and Julia Jane Galloway
Certificate of marriage for Merrill Hart McGlamery and Julia Jane Galloway in Williamsburg, Virginia on December 24, 1944. McGlamery was living at the United States Naval Hospital at Fort Eustis, Virginia. The marriage certificate includes information about the bride and groom's age, race, number of times previously married, occupation, industry or business, birthplace, parents' full names, mailing address, and date and place of proposed marriage. Merrill Hart McGlamery was born in 1924 in Tampa, Florida. He spent his childhood in Tampa and grew up in a large family. In January of 1943, he enlisted in the United States Army and then also served in the United States Marines. McGlamery served in a signal battalion, through which he took courses in radio operation. After his World War II-era service, McGlamery attended Davidson College and graduated Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa in 1948. He then re-enlisted in the military and served from 1949-1973. He had a long career as an engineer, including work for General Electric as an electronics engineer. McGlamery was also involved in the space program. He later returned to his home state of Florida and was living in Dunnellon when he passed away in 2000. McGlamery is memorialized 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 marriage certificate recorded by the Clerk of the Circuit Court, December 22, 1944.
Black and white photograph of the USS MacDounough (DD-351). The USS Macdonough (DD-351) was a Farragut-class destroyer in the United States Navy during World War II. The MacDounough downed a Japanese attack plane during the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. Raymond D. Nelson served on the ship for part of his tenure in the United States Navy. 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 black and white photograph.
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, 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.
Auxiliary Remount Depot no. 333 at Camp Joseph E. Johnston in Jacksonville, Florida, in April 1918. The 305, 306, 307 and 308 Field Remount Squadrons are in formation on the parade grounds. A notable soldier in this segregated unit is Archie Hawkins (1902 – 1989). Hawkins was born in Lloyd, Florida, to Doc and Lilly Hawkins, on February 12, 1902. He registered for the draft twice. Both times, Hawkins claimed that he was older than he actually was. On his second attempt, he was accepted and drafted into the United States Army on September 26, 1918. He served domestically at Camp Joseph E. Johnson in Jacksonville, Florida, as a part of the Auxiliary Remount Depot no. 333. After Hawkins’s service ended on December 14, 1918, he returned home to Lloyd. He moved to St. Petersburg, Florida, in 1929. Archie Hawkins died on February 27, 1989, in Pinellas County, Florida. He is buried in 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.
Camp Joseph E. Johnston, Jacksonville, Florida
Born in Savannah, Georgia, on March 12, 1927, Bagby served in the United States Army from November 8, 1950, to November 7, 1952, during the Korean War. In addition to being scholars, much of the Bagby family served in the military. Bagby completed his service as a corporal, concluding his service on November 7, 1952. He spent most of his life in Miami, Florida. He died on April 10, 1996, 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 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.
Stephen Edward Cousens wearing his United States Navy uniform. Born in New York City in 1948, Cousens served as a Communications Yeomen during the Vietnam War from January 1966 to March 1969. He later settled in Long Beach, California. Cousens passed away in February of 1997, and a memorial marker at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida, commemorates his life and service. His father, Robert Douglass Cousens, who served in World War II, is also buried at the cemetery with his wife and Steven's mother. 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 color photograph.
Ten uniformed soldier of the 484th Bombardment Group pose in front of a plane around 1943. A cartoon drawing of a man wearing a top hat and tuxedo appears on the side of the plane along with the caption, "Stew Bum". A notable solider who appears in the photograph is Sidney J. Malatsky (1924-1944). Born in 1924 in Chelsea, Massachusetts, Malatsky's parents were Russian Jewish immigrants who had came to the United States around the turn of the century. Malatsky attended Chelsea High School, where he made the honor roll and was active in band, orchestra, the school yearbook, and debating club. In 1942, he enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps Reserves and entered the service in January of 1943. He served in the 827th Bombardment Squadron, 484th Bombardment Group, Heavy, and rose to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. His plane was hit during a mission in November 1944, and the crew crash-landed the plane in the Adriatic Sea. The plane broke in half and Malatsky was killed in the crash at the age of twenty. He was awarded the Air Medal and Purple Heart, and is recognized on the Tablets of the Missing at Florence American Cemetery and Memorial in Italy, as well as 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 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 copy of original black and white photograph
Dressed in his United States Marine uniform, Luther Wade Pilcher (1898-1918) poses on a chair in front of a backdrop of the United States Capitol. On his left breast is a rifle expert marksmanship badge. His rank at the time of the photo, corporal, is denoted by the three faint lines on his right arm. He would later be promoted to sergeant. Pilcher was born in Dothan, Alabama, on January 1, 1898, to Richard and Della Pilcher. The second of five children, the family moved to Noma, Florida, in 1910. Luther's last known residence was in Chipley, Florida. Pilcher enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on May 4, 1915, and served in Haiti and Cuba from 1915-1917. After the United States entered World War I, the 5th Marine Regiment was activated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Pilcher and his regiment left for France in August of 1917, arriving on the 22nd. The 5th was among the first of the American Expeditionary Forces to arrive in Europe. Pilcher and his regiment took part in the Battle of Belleau Wood in June of 1918. On June 6th, the bloodiest day of the battle, Pilcher was killed in action. He posthumously received the Distinguished Service Cross, the Navy Cross, and the French Fourragere for his service and sacrifice. He is buried in the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery at Plot B Row 10 Grave 68 in Belleau, France. 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 continues, engaging a team of scholars to make the life stories of veterans buried in national cemeteries 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 headstones at four national cemeteries, two in Florida (Florida National Cemetery and St. Augustine National Cemetery) and two in France (American Battle Monuments Commission cemeteries at Aisne-Marne and the Meuse-Argonne), where they can access the UCF student-authored biographies of veterans.
Digital reproduction of original sepia photograph.
Marine Corps Base Quantico, Quantico, Virginia
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.
Abstract of Military Service for Ian Brandon
Troopship Nansemond Brings 5,252 Happy Men
3rd Infantry Division Stained Glass Window
U.S. National Army Cantonment, Camp Devens, Ayer, Mass.
Abstract of Military Service for William Snow Taylor Jr.
John May Building the May Museum of the Tropics
John May at the foundation of the May Museum of the Tropics at Weeki Wachee Springs, Florida. The date written on the photograph is November 20th, 1953. The May Natural History Museum of the Tropics is a non-profit organization that displays the world’s largest private insect collection. James May acquired the thousands of insects and arthropods that make up the collection from the late 1800s until his death in 1956. John May continued his father’s legacy, building a museum in Weeki Wachee, Florida, that lasted from 1954-1964, and a museum in Colorado that opened in the 1950s and is still open today. John May also took parts of the collection across the United States and Canada to display at fairs and exhibitions. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947. At the time, roadside attractions were becoming popular stops along Florida roadways. The attraction consisted of an amalgamation of vendors, an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction: a mermaid show that took place in an underwater theater. Eventually, the May Museum of the Tropics, an "abandoned Seminole village", a show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo were added. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original black and white photograph: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
RICHES
May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visits Orlando
On March 6th, 1964, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. came to Orlando and gave a speech at Tinker Field. Appearing in the photograph at the steps of the Shiloh Baptist Church in Orlando from left to right is John Truesdell, Frank O’Neill, Mabel Richardson, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Sandra Poston Johnson, Rev. Jim Perry and Rosemary Budley. Located in the Parramore/Lorna Doone neighborhood of downtown Orlando, Jones High School was the first area public school for African-Americans. The original building was located on the corner of Garland Avenue and Church Street, but the school was renamed the Johnson Academy and moved to a new building on the corner of Chatham Avenue and West Jefferson Street. In 1921, the school was renamed in honor Principal L. C. Jones and a brick colonial revival building was constructed on the corner of Parramore Avenue and Washington Street. The school was finally moved to its current location at 801 South Rio Grande Avenue in 1952.
Original black and white photograph: Jones High School Historical Museum, Orlando, Florida.
Jones High School
Estevan Rojo dressed in his military uniform sits in between his standing children. A first generation American, Rojo joined the United States Army during the First World War. He served as a wagoner in the 119th Field Artillery. During the war, the 119th supported the 32nd and 79th Divisions, as well as others when needed. While deployed to France, he fought in the battles of Chateau-Thierry and the Meuse-Argonne. After the war, Rojo returned home and worked as a builder and a painter. He died on April 25, 1961, and was buried at Bay Pines National Cemetery Section 36, Row 3, Site 9. 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 black and white photograph: Rojo Family.
Estevan Rojo placing a wooden panel while building a house. An unidentified man stands behind him, holding the end of the piece of wood. A first generation American, Rojo joined the United States Army during the First World War. He served as a wagoner in the 119th Field Artillery. During the war, the 119th supported the 32nd and 79th Divisions, as well as others when needed. While deployed to France, he fought in the battles of Chateau-Thierry and the Meuse-Argonne. After the war, Rojo returned home and worked as a builder and a painter. He died on April 25, 1961, and was buried at Bay Pines National Cemetery Section 36, Row 3, Site 9. 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 second USS Harding (DD-625) was launched on June 28, 1942, by the Seattle-Tacoma Shipbuilding Corporation and commissioned by the United States Navy on May 25, 1943. The Harding served as a ship destroyer responsible for antisubmarine patrolling and escorting battleships in the Atlantic earlier during World War II before transitioning to the Pacific in the later part of the war. The Navy decommissioned the ship on November 2, 1945, and was sold for scrap on April 16, 1947, by the Luia Brothers Co., Inc. of Philadelphia. Harding received three battle stars for World War II service. A notable crewmember was George Downings Jr. (1925-1946). Downings was born and raised in St. Johns County, Florida. Before joining the military, he lived in Saint Augustine, Florida. On March 4, 1943, Downings enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve in Jacksonville, Florida. Downings served as a Navy Messman, later called a Steward. In his duty, Downings was responsible for feeding and cleaning up after Navy officers. He eventually reached the rank of Steward’s Mate First Class. Downings served on various vessels, including the U.S.S. Harding, the U.S.S. O’Brien, and the U.S.S. Moale. Downings continued to serve in the Navy until December 25, 1945. He passed away on July 5, 1946, at the age of 21. He is buried in Saint Augustine National Cemetery in Section D, Plot 57. 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.
Engagement in the Wahoo Swamp, E.F. Nov. 21, 1836
1838 Directly East of This Highway Fort Maitland
Descriptive and Historical Register of Enlisted Soldiers of the Army
The Descriptive and Historical Register of Enlisted Soldiers of the Army is a record of all the individuals who enlisted in the United States Army between 1798-1914. The register includes information about the individual’s age at time of enlistment, birthplace, occupation, physical description, rank, and date and cause of discharge. This page of the Register of Enlistments has an entry for Bryan McDonough. Bryan McDonough was born in Sligo, Ireland, in 1814. McDonough emigrated to the United States sometime prior to 1837, when he enlisted in the United States Army out of Frederick, Maryland. Prior to his enlistment, McDonough worked as a laborer. McDonough joined Company F of the 6th Infantry Regiment, which the US Government sent to Florida during the Second Seminole War (1835-1842.) Swift died during the Battle of Okeechobee, on December 25, 1837. He is memorialized at St. Augustine National Cemetery in 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 United States Army Register of Enlistments, 1798-1914.
An engraved image of Second Lieutenant Robert Rich Mudge from an 1868 family history book entitled "Memorials: Being a Biograpbical and Historical Account of the Name of Mudge in America". He is estimated to be about twenty-five years old in this image. Robert Rich Mudge was born in Lynn, Massachusetts, in 1810. He applied to the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point, New York, three times before he was accepted in 1829. He graduated as a brevet second lieutenant four years later. In September of 1835, as a full second lieutenant, he deployed to Florida to serve in the Second Seminole War (1835-1842). Mudge served with Company B of the 2nd Artillery Regiment and fell during Dade’s Massacre on December 28, 1835. 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.
Pegasus Magazine, Volume 26, Issue 3, Summer 2020
A small poster for Weeki Wachee Springs. The background of the poster is black, featuring a cartoon mermaid and three fish. The text reads, "Weeki Wachee Live Mermaids. U.S. 19 and Florida 50." Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original color poster: May Natural History Museum Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida
Illuminating the Darkness: Our Carceral Landscape
Artists--Florida; Imprisonment; Incarceration
Over 2 million people are incarcerated in the United States today, yet the prison system remains largely invisible to the majority of Americans. Illuminating the Darkness: Our Carceral Landscape presents the work of twenty-five artists whose practice is informed by their experiences with the criminal justice system to shine a light on the ways in which mass incarceration affects us all. The culmination of a two-year project sponsored by the Florida Prison Education Project, National Endowment for the Arts, and Laughing Gull Foundation, the collected pieces—in sculpture and installation, drawing and painting, video and photography, and printmaking and book arts—explore racism, oppression, and the immutability of the human spirit.