A colorized postcard of the Central Christian Church in Fitzgerald, Georgia. The building is still in use today, as the Faith Baptist Church. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 colored postcard: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
Central Christian Church, Fitzgerald, Georgia
A postcard of the Lee Grant Hotel in Fitzgerald, Georgia. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Miss Louise Irwin of Irwin, Virginia. The message reads, "Spend the day at this hotel and came to [Way] cross to-night […] Are having beautiful warm weather. May go to Valdosta in the morning. Am 15 miles from Jacksonville, Fla. to-night". This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 black and white postcard: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A photograph of the St. James Hotel in Fitzgerald, Georgia. The St. James Hotel was built by Eliza Fox and was the first permanent hotel in the area. This photograph is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 black and white photograph: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A business card with a photo of the home of Capt. J. F. Chase in St. Petersburg, Florida. The card reads on the front, "Capt. J. F. Chase. Special Agent for Veteran City on the Gulf of Mexico. 5 miles from St. Petersburg by Trolley. Dealer in Real Estate of all descriptions. Orange Groves. Orange Lands". On the back of the card is a photo of J. F. Chase. and a small biography, which reads, "Capt. J. F. Chase. The founder of Veteran City. Aiide-de-Camp on Staff of Commander in Chief G.A.R., Commander of Department of Florida of the United Veterans of the Blue and Grey. Past Commander Department of Florida G.A.R. No. 1 Cannonier of the 5th Me. Battery. Received forty-eight wounds at the Battle of Gettysburg, July 2, 1863. Received a Medal of Honour from Congress for meritorious conduct at the Battle of Chancellorsville, May 3, 1863. Past Commander Kit Carson Post G.A.R. Now living at St. Petersburg, FLA." This business card is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 black and white business card: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A postcard depicting the developing town of Zephyrhills, Florida. Before the town was officially established in 1910, a man named Simon J. Temple purchased 280 acres of land in the area and named it Abbott. The land was used for farming citrus and lumber. In 1909, Captain Howard B. Jeffries, a veteran of the Civil War from Pennsylvania, purchased the land to create a settlement for Union Civil War veterans. He changed the name of the town from Abbott to Zephyrhills. The town was officially incorporated in 1914. The town continued to be a major lumbering industry into the 1920s and 1930s. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Miss Jennie [...] of Albany, NJ. At the bottom of the address section is a code of "R. F. D X 1". The message reads, "March [7]. Zephyrhills, Fla. My dear Jennie, At last I will send you a little token of life. This card shows you where I am. This is a fine day. The mocking bird has been singing all day. I am fine and hope the same for you dear. With love to all..." This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard with a picture of the home of S. R. Averill in Zephyrhills, Florida. Averill previously lived in Pennsylvania before settling in Florida. The printed text next to the photo of the home reads, "We landed here the 26th of October, 1911. Moved in our new house in January 1912
have 2 1/2 acres cleared of roots and stumps
forty rods west of city limits on a twenty acre tract
straddling a small beautiful lake. We are planting our third garden at this writing, January 1913
we are having for the table the following (Goodies): Strawberries, lettuce, onions, radishes, celery, beats, cabbage, turnips, rutabagas, tomatoes, and cucumbers. This picture was taken by a friend unbeknown to us. Excuse my shirt sleeves. House 24x24
porch 10x56 feet. We are having out after dinner chat and smoke. Member of J. A. Garfield Post No. 38, Dep't of Florida, late of Company F. 13th Pa. Vol. Cav." On the back is a handwritten message which reads, "Looks [...] different now many trees [etc.]. [...] is a snap shot we did not know it was taken until long afterwards. The [...] yard is about 125 feet-sq. [...] a few roses and many of the [...] several fruit [...] trees. [...] grape vines, bananas, tangerines, guava, kumquat, and lemon trees." This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard depicting the Francisco Building which houses a pharmacy Zephyrhills, Florida. The building was owned by innovator Waldo M. Francisco and was the first block structure in town in 1911. Francisco was also the first to have electricity in the town and developed a power plant for Zephyrhills. On the second story balcony, two women are standing posing for the photo. On the back of the postcard is a handwritten message addressed to Miss Clara Held at 329 Wood Street in Johnstown, PA. The message reads, "Zephyrhills Jan. 18, 1913. Dear Clara, We are here for the day. Will leave soon. It is a [...] 12 [mi] from San Antonio. We are well. This is drug store we shopped. Hotel across the street. Will write a little to-night. Best regards to all, G.F." This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting a group of women making up the Ladies of the G.A.R., Lynn Haven chapter, standing in front of a building. One man stands within the group on the right, while two man can be seen from inside the building through a window. On the front of the postcard, written by hand, is a caption in the center, "Lynn Haven Circle No. 7 Ladies of the G.A.R". Written on the left corner is the name "Preston". The Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) was a fraternal organization of veterans of the United States Union Army, Union Navy, Marines and the United States Cutter Service who served in the American Civil War. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
"Godspell" 30th Anniversary Reunion 1971-2001
Music--New York (State)--New York--20th century
A program for the 30th Anniversary Reunion of the cast and crew from the musical "Godspell". The program lists the curriculum, special thanks, greeting from those that could not be in attendance, photographs, a directory with contact information, and a list of those who had passed away. On the back of the program is a note that reads, "JESSE CUTLER 'Guitarist' Original New York Company." Reunited at the September funeral of David Haskell, the original John the Baptist and Judas, the first cast of the 1971 hit decided to come together again for a happier occasion: the 30th anniversary of the Off-Broadway opening. On May 12, 2001, with composer Stephen Schwartz in attendance, the original cast of Godspell plus members of the subsequent national tours and the movie version, met together in a private celebration at the Sportsmen's' Lounge in Studio City, California. Jesse Cutler has spent an illustrious career, beginning at age 12, as a musician, composer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Starting in New York City in the 1960s and then in Los Angeles from the early ‘70s through the late ‘90s, Jesse performed with his bands and in the original cast of Godspell on Broadway, made records that saw Billboard’s Top 100, formed his own companies and appeared on TV and radio and in national print.
RICHES
Sportsmen's Lodge, Studio City, California
A postcard with a photo of the Veterans' Memorial Library in St. Cloud, Florida. Located on Massachusetts Avenue between Tenth and Eleventh Street, the library was dedicated in 1925. Today the building is used for the Women's Club. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 inch black and white postcard: Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
Conn's Department Store and Pennsylvania Hotel Postcard
Postcard depicting the Pennsylvania Hotel and Conn's Department Store. A sign on the side of the store markets the sale of dry goods, shoes, and furnishings. On the bottom of the postcard is printed, "Conn's Department Store and Pennsylvania Hotel, St. Cloud, Fla." Conn's Department store was owned and operated by James K. Conn, who was born in Pennsylvania and moved to St. Cloud, Florida sometime between 1910 and 1920. In 1917, the town of St. Cloud suffered a fire which engulfed business buildings and apartments along Pennsylvania Avenue. The townspeople decided to rebuild, replacing previously wooden building with concrete and brick. Conn's Department Store was one of these rebuilt buildings. The Pennsylvania Hotel was also built just after the fire in the rebuilding process. The building is now the site of the St. Cloud Twin Theater. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard depicting a scene on New York Avenue in St. Cloud, Florida. Along either side of the avenue are buildings, likely homes as well as businesses. One building on the left includes the Seminole Pharmacy as well as a parlor. Men are seen standing in front of the buildings on the left side of the road. Horse drawn carriages can also be seen in front of the buildings. Running perpendicular to the avenue appears to be a railroad with a railroad car carrying supplies. Written along the bottom of the picture is, "New York Ave. Addis Photo. St. Cloud Fla." On the back of the postcard is a message addressed to Mr. J. E. Griffith at 74 Water St. in Keene New Hampshire. The message reads, "Sept. 15, 10. A year ago today there was not a house beside the hotel on this ave." New York Avenue is one of the first state-named streets in St. Cloud and now makes up the city's downtown area. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Postcard depicting a single dirt road in a wooded area with buildings, likely homes, on either side. Four people, including a child, can be seen standing along the side of the road. Stamped along the bottom of the front of the postcard reads "Scene near St. Cloud, Fla." On the back of the postcard is a message addressed to Dr. Ira Scott of Kent, Ohio. The message reads, "St. Cloud Fla. Apr 22, 11. Dear Dr., glad to hear you and yours all got home safe and hope you will all soon be feeling better. I will try and look after your work as soon as I can get too it and will do it the very best that I can. Thanking you for the favor. I remain yours, Geo. Clark" This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Photo depicts a man sitting at a drumset in front of an American flag. Written on the kick drum is, "J.T. Burbank of the Wonder City St. Cloud Fla. Plays five drums cymbals trup't-kazoo." On the back of the photo is a printed label that says, " J.T. Burbank -- One man band with his five drums, kazoo, cymbals and trumpet. Mr. Burbank was a member of the St. Cloud GAR." Joseph Tripp Burbank was born in 1835 in Pennsylvania. Working as a baker for most of his life, he served with the Union Army during the Civil War from May 1861 to June 1864. While in the military, Burbank picked up music and continued to play in his spare time for the St. Cloud G.A.R. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Original 5 x 3 inch black and white postcard (photo?): Private Collection of Roger Hipel.
A postcard showing the Pope family in front of their home in St. Cloud, Florida. The family includes Dr. Fenelon F.H. Pope, his wife, Laura, and their daughters, Edna and Gertrude. A note on the back of the postcard reads: "Dr. FFH Pope in front of his home in St. Cloud Fla. About 1910-1912. Dr. Pope was from Dalton, Ohio. And moved to the colony early." Dr. Fenelon F.H. Pope was originally from Dalton, Ohio and served in the Co. 169 in the Ohio Infantry during the Civil War. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A postcard depicting the completed G.A.R Memorial Hall building in St. Cloud, Florida. Handwritten on the back of the postcard is the message: "St. Cloud, Fla. August 28, 1918. Dear Frances, This is the hall where grandpa's name and regiment is carved on a brick in the entrance. Papa". The postcard is addressed to Frances Clark in Walnut, Kansas. The Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) was a fraternal organization of veterans of the United States Union Army, Union Navy, Marines and the United States Cutter Service who served in the American Civil War. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
Mitchell Post National Encampment Postcard
A postcard depicting the St. Cloud Mitchell Post at the 44th National Encampment in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The front of the postcard shows men with drums and flags before or after participating in the encampment parade. The group is standing in front of a building called Lawrence's Pharmacy. The back of the postcard features handwritten notes explaining, "ST. CLOUD'S MITCHELL POST AT NATIONAL ENCAMPMENT ATLANTIC CITY 1910". At the top is also a notation number, "88.1.157". The 44th National Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic took place September 22-23, 1910 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The total attendence of the gathering was 213,901. Mitchell Post was named after the first G.A.R. veteran soldier to die after the St. Cloud colony was established. Lucius L. Mitchell, a private of the G.A.R., moved with his wife and five of their eight children to St. Cloud, Florida in 1909. He would die later that same year, and be buried in the Rose Hill Cemetary in Kissimmee, Florida. This postcard is part of a private collection kept by Roger Hipel of St. Cloud, Florida.
A t-shirt for the band Stiff Kitten. Originally called Bulz Eye, Stiff Kitten was formed in Orlando, Florida, around 1983. The group consisted of Deryle Hughes on lead vocals, slide guitar, and harmonica
and Greg Saxonis on drums. Saxonis would be eventually be replaced by Dave Tinney and then Jeff Bonenfant. The band moved to Tampa for a brief time before returning to Orlando, eventually changing their name to Sons of Doctors, which became the name most closely associated with them. Largely a classic rock cover band during the 1980s and early 1990s, Hughes began composing music by the mid-1990s. Joe Stump joined in 1996 and contributed guitar and vocals. The group regularly performed at Orlando clubs such as Junkyard, Townsend's, Green Parrot, as well as at the Full Moon Saloon in Daytona Beach during bike weeks. They opened up the Daytona 500 on the infield on February 14, 1999. The band signed with Sony Records and recorded several original tracks, but disbanded in 1999. Deryle Hughes formed Simple Southern Boys with keyboardist Doug Bare in Orlando in 2004. He opened a recording studio called Big Shot Studios in Altamonte Springs in June 2006.
Original color digital images: Private Collection of Mick Dolan.
A t-shirt for the bar/nightclub Saint &amp
Sinners Pub. The pub is part of Bruce Rossmeyer's Destination Daytona Complex, which is an internationally recognized commercial and residential real estate complex in Ormond Beach, Florida. In addition to Saints &amp
Sinners, the complex includes Rossmeyer's Harley-Davidson showroom, several retail shops, restaurants, and a luxury hotel. The complex is a popular tourist destination, especially during Daytona's Bike Week. The Saints &amp
Sinners Pub is located at 1635 North U.S. Highway 1.
Saints & Sinners Pub, Ormond Beach, Florida
Newt Perry Announcing a Mermaid Show at Weeki Wachee Spring's Underwater Theater
Newt Perry announcing a mermaid show in the first underwater theater at Weeki Wachee Springs. There are 15 guests watching the performance, sitting on fruit crates. This image was taken sometime between 1948 and 1960. Newton "Newt" Perry was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1908, and moved with his family to Ocala, Florida in 1922. He was a member of the swimming and diving teams at the University of Florida. Perry earned the nickname "The Human Fish" for his performances of underwater stunts in advertising clips and film shorts, and acted as a swim double for actors in movies and TV shows, including Johnny Weissmuller as "Tarzan." Perry also advised filmmakers filming underwater scenes at Silver Springs, Wakulla Springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs, and developed a system for breathing underwater using an air compressor and hose, which was used in the 1948 film "Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid" and during Weeki Wachee Springs' mermaid shows. Perry worked as a lifeguard, public school principal, coach, swimming and scuba diving instructor, and Ocala city pool manager. He opened Perry's Swim School in 1955, and taught more than 120,000 individuals to swim during his career. Perry was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1981. Perry's daughter Delee Perry took over Perry's Swim School following her father's death in 1987, and it was still in operation as of 2020. Along with a group of investors, Newton Perry opened Weeki Wachee Springs to the public in October of 1947, and used his experiences working at Silver Springs and Wakulla Springs to develop the original concepts for its underwater theater and mermaid shows. Perry sold his stake in Weeki Wachee Springs in 1950. After peaking in the 1950s and 1960s, attendance began to decline as theme parks and highways changed the dynamics of Florida's tourism. The State of Florida took over the attraction as a state park in 2008. Since then, the park has focused on appealing to a modern audience while preserving its history.
Original photograph of underwater theater at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Personal Collection of Delee Perry.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Spring Hill, Florida
Newt Perry and Weeki Wachee Mermaid Performing Show
Newt Perry and a Weeki Wachee mermaid posing underwater, performing a show. The two are swimming near a prop that resembles a castle. 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.
Weeki Wachee Mermaids Sitting in a Circle
20 Weeki Wachee mermaids posing for a photograph by sitting in a large circle. The photograph was taken sometime in the 1950s. 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.
For Freedoms Town Hall on the Carceral Landscape and Art as Activism
Police brutality and mass incarceration are among the most crucial legal and social issues of our time and their study illuminates the ways in which “We the People” conceive of ourselves and our societal responsibilities. Art is an important vehicle for civic participation and this town hall initiates a dialog on art and mass incarceration between Omari Booker, an artist participating in the NEA-sponsored exhibition "Illuminating the Darkness: Our Carceral Landscape;" Gisela Carbonell, Curator at the Cornell Fine Arts Museum; and Keri Watson, Associate Professor of Art History at the University of Central Florida. Sponsored by For Freedoms, the Cornell Museum of Fine Arts, and the UCF Art Gallery and featuring Omari Booker, Gisela Carbonell, and Keri Watson.
Panel Discussion on Racism and Mass Incarceration
Mass incarceration affects millions of Americans, and even though 1 in every 4 adults has a prior conviction, returning citizens face significant discrimination. A prior conviction can make it hard to find employment, a place to live and the right to drive. People who have been incarcerated are prohibited from employment opportunities in law enforcement, the school system, and hospitals, and oftentimes employers automatically reject applicants due to a felony conviction. It can also make it hard to pursue education and to pursue a professional discipline such as nursing, medicine, teaching, real estate, insurance, transportation, financial services, and the practice of law. During this panel, speakers who have been impacted by the criminal justice system share their stories and offer suggestions for how attendees can actively practice anti-racism and support criminal justice reform. This panel is part of "Illuminating the Darkness: Our Carceral Landscape" exhibition programming and funded by the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, visit cah.ucf.edu/fpep/illuminatingdarkness/
"Illuminating the Darkness: Our Carceral Landscape" - Exhibition Walk Through
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.
Weeki Wachee Mermaid Lydia Dodson Posing Underwater
Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History;
Lydia Dodson posing underwater in June of 1970. Lydia Dodson was a Weeki Wachee Mermaid in the 1970s and more recently joined ranks of the Legendary Sirens. Weeki Wachee Springs is a state park that opened to the public in October of 1949 by Newton Perry along with a group of investors. This attraction opened as the roadside era of Florida was ramping up and consisted of an amalgamation of vendors including an orchid garden, a river boat tour, as well as the star attraction- the mermaid show that took place in an underwater theatre. The attraction grew to include The May Museum of the Tropics, an ‘abandoned Seminole village’, an show called “Birds of Prey”, and a petting zoo. As theme parks became the new norm for Florida’s tourist industry, Weeki Wachee Springs began steadily declining until the state of Florida absorbed the attraction into the state park system in 2008. The attraction now focuses on appealing to a modern audience, while still preserving its rich history.
Original photograph of Lydia Dodson: Personal Collection of Lydia Dodson.
Geanie L.W. Brooks in Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaid Uniform Operating a Caterpillar D-7 Bulldozer
Mermaids--Florida--Weeki Wachee--History
Geanie L. W. Brooks in her Weeki Wachee uniform (a swimsuit) operating a Caterpillar D-7 bulldozer. Geanie learned how to operate heavy machinery at the McCloskey Shipyard during World War II. In the 1950s, Geanie worked as a waitress at the Patio Restuarant at Weeki Wachee Springs and later became a mermaid. She left this position in 1957. After Weeki Wachee, Geanie drove bulldozers, repaired bulldozer tracks, and drove a dump trunk. Even later she worked as a bookkeeper, real estate agent, bowling instructor, and department store manager. Her last job was at Home Depot, she left the workforce upon turning eighty-years-old. 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 of Geanie Brooks on a bulldozer, c. 1950s: Private Collection of Shirley Herdge.
Geanie L. W. Brooks in her Welding Uniform at the McCloskey Shipyard in Tampa during WWII
Geanie L. W. Brooks in her welding uniform at the McCloskey Shipyard. Geanie learned how to weld and work with heavy machinery at this shipyard during World War II. McCloskey Shipyard paid welding trainees 63 cents and hour to train there and 17% of their workforce during the war were women, which was twice the national figure. In the 1950s, Geanie worked as a waitress at the Patio Restuarant at Weeki Wachee Springs and later became a mermaid. She left this position in 1957. After Weeki Wachee, Geanie drove bulldozers, repaired bulldozer tracks, and drove a dump trunk. Even later, she worked as a bookkeeper, real estate agent, bowling instructor, and department store manager. Her last job was at Home Depot. She left the workforce upon turning 80 years old. According to a two-page life story Geanie wrote, "My family thought I was 'liberated' before anyone had even heard of 'women's liberation.' I always knew men made more money than women, so I applied for men's jobs, knew what they made, asked for it, and got it. (Can't hurt to ask right?) Sometimes I even made more, if I was able to get a percentage of a dumptruck haul." 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 of Geanie L.W. Brooks, c.1940s: Private Collection of Shirley Herdge.
Florence and Charles McNabb Holding Trophies won During a Diving Competition
Photograph of Florence and Charles McNabb holding trophies they won at an amateur skin diving competition at Rainbow Springs. The couple both worked at Weeki Wachee Springs, and would often participate in swimming competitions. In this competition, the couple both won first place in their respective gender classes. 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 of Florence McNabb and family, c. 1950s: Collection of Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
Florence McNabb, Charles McNabb, and Their Two Sons, David and Michael, Leaving Church
Black and white photograph of Florence McNabb, husband Charles McNabb, and their two sons, Michael and David, leaving church. Florence is shaking their minister's hand. Florence McNabb was a Weeki Wachee Mermaid in the 1950s. Her husband also worked at Weeki Wachee. They married in 1951. In 1963, the McNabb's car was struck by a drunk driver, killing Florence and Michael and severely injuring Charles and David. Decades later in 2006, someone picking debris out of the Weeki Wachee Springs found an anklet with "Florence" engraved on one side and "Charlie" engraved on the other. Former mermaid and co-worker of Florence McNabb Vicki Smith confirmed that Florence had lost the anklet during a show. Years later, a friend of David McNabb found a large box of Weeki Wachee emphemera and family pictures when he helped to clean out David's home after David passed away. This friend passed the box on to his daughter, who donated the artifacts to Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. 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 of Florence McNabb and family, c. 1950s: Collection of Friends of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
Illuminating the Darkness: Our Carceral Landscape
Artists--Florida; Imprisonment; Incarceration
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
Pegasus Magazine, Volume 26, Issue 3, Summer 2020
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.
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.
1838 Directly East of This Highway Fort Maitland
Engagement in the Wahoo Swamp, E.F. Nov. 21, 1836
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.
Digital reproduction of original black and white photograph.
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.
Digital reproduction of original black and white photograph: Rojo Family.
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.
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
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.
May Museum of the Tropics, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Weeki Wachee, Florida
Abstract of Military Service for William Snow Taylor Jr.
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.
U.S. National Army Cantonment, Camp Devens, Ayer, Mass.
3rd Infantry Division Stained Glass Window
Troopship Nansemond Brings 5,252 Happy Men
Abstract of Military Service for Ian Brandon
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
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Records Administration, Washington, D.C.
Bureau of the Census
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