Robert, Author at Robert Redd Historian & Author

Posted on April 1, 2024August 27, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Little(r) Museums of Paris Book Review

Jacobs, Emma. Little(r) Museums of Paris An Illustrated Guide to the City’s Hidden Gems. New York: Running Press. 2019. ISBN 9780762466399. $20. 192 pages. Index, bibliography, drawings.

Planning a trip to Paris can prove to be an overwhelming task. How much time do I need? How to get there? Where to stay? Where to eat? Should I rent a car? What are the must see destinations?

While she can’t answer those questions for you, author Emma Jacobs can provide you with some off the beaten path alternatives that most visitors to Paris will never even know about. If you crave the unknown, less crowded, local flavor type of destinations, this is a book you have to read before visiting Paris.

What to Expect

In a book that is whimsical, yet serious; travel guide, yet travel writing; and brief, yet thorough, Emma Jacobs holds our hand through some locations that Rick Steves will not guide you to. With that in mind, this guide (if you want to call it that) is ideal for travelers who have visited Paris and seen the major sites. Maybe you are one of those travelers who doesn’t care to see the Eiffel Tower (gasp and shame on you). Or maybe you want to see Paris like a local might. If this sounds like how you travel, step on in.

First, a couple of things that differentiate this book from a standard travel guide. The book is in hardcover format. It’s not a traditional hardcover size but it’s hardcover none the less and a bit more difficult to take with you during a days excursion. Second are the illustrations. This is not your standard travel guide that is packed with color photos. Rather, these are Jacobs own watercolor illustrations. I might have like to have some color photos included but the illustrations are charming and well thought out.

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What is Included

The book is divided into nine chapters, listed below

Marvels & Machines
History
Architecture & Design
Around the World
Time Capsules
Artists & Ateliers
Stage & Page
Science & Medicine
On the Outskirts

Each chapter contains multiple listings. All listings contain some basic information. This includes the museum name in both French and English. The address, phone number, and website are listed as are the hours of operation and admission fees.

Perhaps the most useful piece of information however is that Jacobs provides readers with the nearest Metro location. This information is crucial in trying to actually visit each location. Remember above when I asked about renting a car. Having been to Paris, here’s my advice, DON’T. Public transportation is readily available. The Metro is more reliable than buses, which are often well off schedule. Traffic in Paris can be a nightmare. If you aren’t familiar with the city and don’t have a good handle on the language, do not rent a car.

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Examples

Musee Curie — The **Curie Museum** is located in the third and last laboratory used by Marie Curie, the Curie pavilion of the Paris Radium Institute, built between 1912 and 1915. Consisting of a permanent exhibition space and a resource center historical, it offers the public the opportunity to discover the history of the Curie family, radioactivity and its first applications.

So, one issue I did have with this book is trying to determine just what is meant by “little(r).” Jacobs doesn’t supply a true definition of the term. She kind of punts on a definition in her introduction. Here she states, “luckily, a city with a museum the size of the Louvre left me a lot of flexibility in defining small.” I worked at a true small museum. A small museum does not have millions of artifacts or the budgets many of these facilities would appear to have. Potato, potahto.

Museums such as Musee des Arts Forains (Museum of Fairground Arts) focus on the whimsical such as carousels, arcade games, wax figures, and the like.

If you are interested in fashion, a visit to the Musee Yves Saint Laurent (Yves Saint Laurent Museum) has to be on your list.

Paris is known for its art and art lovers will find plenty to enjoy in this book. A visit to the Musee Rodin (Rodin Museum) will satisfy any fan. You can see the famous Liberty Leading the People during a visit to the Louvre, or you can visit the Musee National Eugene Delacroix, and learn much more about the artist.

I could go on, but I think you are getting the picture here. There are museums for every style and taste in Paris. And while the author admits this book is no where near comprehensive, you could live for a year in Paris and not cover all the museums she has provided.

Some Cautionary Notes

As with any travel guide there are some cautions to be aware of. Travel guides can age poorly. This one is probably no exception.

Jacobs lists open hours and admission prices. Please remember, this book was published BEFORE the COVID-19 pandemic. Much of that information could have changed in the ensuing years. It’s best to check the official website for each museum to confirm. I spot checked about a dozen of the sites from the book and with only 2 exceptions, all translated automatically to English. The others showed the option to do so with a click of the mouse.

An issue with the set up of the book by topic becomes the difficulty in planning to see several museums in a single day. It takes some work to determine museums that are within reasonable proximity to each other. Jacobs does provide several brief itineraries to close out the book. You have to reference these back to the text. It might have been nice to have these nearby destinations referenced in the individual listings as well.

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Takeaways

Overall, I found this to be a worthwhile read. The book can be read cover to cover, as I did, or piecemeal based upon your interests.

This book is ideal for someone planning an extended stay in Paris, or for experienced visitors who are seeking adventure outside of the standard sites recommended everywhere else.

The price of the book is very reasonable at $20. The format makes it good for keeping on your shelf but maybe not for day to day wandering throughout the city. As with any travel guide, some information can become outdated, but you all know how to use Google to verify the information provided.

Recommended.

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This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence the views and opinions shared in this blog.

Visit the Musee Yves Saint Laurent in ParisLittle(r) Museums of Paris — Reserve your tickets to tour the Musee Yves Saint Laurent in Paris. Take a guided tour before the museum opens to the public. Click the image or **THIS LINK** for information and to book your tour.

Posted on March 25, 2024August 12, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Roy Nelson New Smyrna Beach Police Officer: In Memory

In Memory Officer Roy L. Nelson New Smyrna Beach Police Department

This post is in memory of officer Roy L. Nelson of the New Smyrna Beach, FL Police Department. Officer Nelson and his police K-9 Caesar perished in an automobile accident while on duty, August 13, 2005.

I invite you to read my other blog posts for law enforcement officers from Volusia and Flagler counties in Florida, who have died in the line of duty. You may find the master list and links to individual posts using THIS LINK. Research is ongoing for this project. If you have information or photos you would like to share, please drop me a line. I would love to be able to give you credit for your contribution.

Officer Roy Nelson New Smyrna Beach Police

According to NSBPD Sergeant Mike Brouillette, Officer Roy L. Nelson, K-9 handler and officer on the New Smyrna Beach police department was described as having a “heart of gold” and that “he loved his job and loved being a k-9 handler.” Volusia County Sheriff’s K-9 officer Jeff Harting added, “He was a good guy. He was good-hearted and very dedicated to K-9.”

Nelson’s death shook fellow officers deeply. He was the first New Smyrna Beach police officer to die in the line of duty. Not only did Nelson perish, his faithful K-9, Caesar, a companion of two years on the force, also perished in a terrifying, high-speed, single car automobile accident. The circumstances surrounding the accident, were slow in coming, and were often contradictory.

Roy L. Nelson grew up in Lakeland, FL where his father served as a corrections officer. According to family, Nelson became interested in law enforcement after stopping to assist an injured motorcyclist. After serving as a volunteer firefighter, he would later spend five years as a Polk County firefighter before realizing his career dream of law enforcement with the New Smyrna Beach Police Department. His mother recalled him as “a wonderful son, always the first to learn everything.”

Community support in the days after Nelson’s death was overwhelming. Residents and law enforcement throughout the state provided food, emotional support, and even patrol support in order to help the family and police force cope and recover. “People want to help in whatever way they can” said Commander Bill Schulz of the Port Orange police department. The Volusia County Sheriffs office also provided deputies to help cover shifts. The City of Edgewater provided patrol officers for the night of Nelson’s accident, allowing fellow officers to grieve.

Coronado Community United Methodist Church served as host for Officer Nelson’s funeral service. More than 600 law enforcement officers were in attendance. None left the services with a dry eye. More than 250 law enforcement vehicles served as an escort for the coffin containing the body of Nelson and the ashes of Caeasar. Sea Pines Memorial Gardens is where Nelson and Caesar were laid to rest. The service featured a 21 gun salute, taps, and a four-helicopter flyover in the missing man formation.

The service ended with a traditional call over the police radio, “RCC to Kilo-2000, RCC to Kilo-2000, RCC to Kilo-2000. RCC to all listening units. RCC to all listening stations. This is to inform you that K-9 officer Roy Nelson and his faithful partner, Caesar, have reached their final resting place and will forever be 10-7.”

The Fatal Accident

Officer Nelson and K-9 Caesar died in a violent automobile accident. The details surrounding the accident were at best sketchy and often times reported before all information was fully clear.

Officer Roy L. Nelson was on duty the evening of Saturday, August 13, 2005. He was beachside at the time when he took off at a high rate of speed crossing the south causeway bridge. Officer Nelson was not wearing his seatbelt. Officer Nelson was not flashing his emergency lights and did not have his siren on when he seemingly lost control of his vehicle, hitting a guardrail, before his cruiser flipped. Shortly after 11:45 p.m., Nelson and Caesar were pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.

In the immediate aftermath of the accident, the New Smyrna Beach police would state that Nelson was responding to a burglary call. The Florida Highway Patrol began to investigate the accident. An unnamed witness provided information that a white, late model pickup had been seen turning east on the South Causeway, before Nelson’s crash. There was no indication that Nelson’s patrol car made contact with this vehicle.

In the preliminary FHP report, they stated that Nelson was responding to a “law enforcement call.” He was travelling in excess of 70mph in a 50mph zone. He was not wearing his seat belt and his flashers and siren were not activated. The report references a white pick up which pulled into Nelson’s path. Nelson swerved to avoid the truck, swerved back when he hit a guardrail, spun clockwise, flipped, and hit another guardrail, before coming to a stop.

The New Smyrna Beach Police Department provided contradictory information in the same newspaper article referenced above. A police representative states, “We are speculating as to what happened. There was no radio traffic.” No radio traffic threw into question the FHP report stating Nelson was responding to a “law enforcement call.” The NSBPD proposed several hypotheticals as to what Nelson was doing.

In the weeks following, 71-year-old Gordon Camp came forward as a person of interest. According Camp’s attorney at the time, he and his wife were returning from a party and were in the median turning east on the Causeway when Ms. Camp saw a police car “shoot” behind them at a high rate of speed with no lights or siren. They continued home, not realizing that Nelson had crashed his patrol car.

In early November, 2005, the Florida Highway Patrol recommended felony charges be filed against the Camps for leaving the scene of an accident involving death. The state attorney’s office responded, “Our review of the report requires that additional investigation is needed before we make any decision whether or not to file charges.” It is important to remember, the state attorney did not have a final report from the Florida Highway Patrol at that time and that the vehicles of Nelson and Camp did not collide.

Nearly a year and a half later, the state attorney’s office declined to pursue charges against Camp. Reasons included that “based upon physical evidence, eyewitness interviews, and accident reconstruction experts, investigators with the State Attorney’s Office determined Gordon Camp did not cause the accident that killed Officer Roy Nelson.” The state attorney’s office added that according to the final FHP report, Nelson was travelling in excess of 115 mph without his emergency lights or sirens activated.

Roy Nelson’s widow, Angie, filed a wrongful death lawsuit in the amount of $3 million against Gordon and Bonni Camp in May 2006. After the state attorney declined to press charges, the Camp’s attorney, Michael Lambert, stated, “It will become very expensive for Miss Nelson to bring the Camps in any greater than their policy limit. Its very unusual where you have a case of no contact. And if you look at the terrain down there, it would be very difficult for (Nelson) to maneuver at that speed.”

Volusia County Courts dismissed the case of Angelique R. Nelson vs. Gordon Camp and Bonni Davis Camp on January 7, 2009. The parties reached an out of court settlement.

The Aftermath

Officer Roy L. Nelson has not been forgotten.

Visit an online memorial to Nelson HERE.

The Law Enforcement Memorial to Volusia and Flagler Counties features Nelson’s name. This impressive monument is located outside the Indiana Avenue entrance to the Historic Volusia County Courthouse in DeLand, FL.

A small marker dedicated to Nelson and Caesar is located on the South Causeway Bridge near the location where both officers lost their lives. This marker can only be accessed safely on foot while crossing the bridge.

The memory of Roy Nelson New Smyrna Beach Police officer is never far from officers hearts and minds. Located at the NSB Police headquarters is an impressive memorial to Officer Nelson.

This beautiful memorial to Roy Nelson New Smyrna Beach Police Officer is located outside the NSBPD station. It serves as a fitting and lasting memorial to the beloved officer who gave his life on duty. The police station is located at 246 Industrial Park Boulevard, near the airport.

Sources

Daytona Beach News Journal–Numerous articles provide the basis for this post. I generously acknowledge their contribution.

The Ledger–This is the local newspaper in Lakeland. I discovered Nelson’s early interest in law enforcement from this newspaper.

Volusia County Clerk of Court

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence the views and opinions shared in this blog.

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Posted on March 20, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

The Best Events and Festivals in Florida in April 2024

Are you searching for the best events and festivals in Florida in April 2024? Thanks for visiting. Please use the links below to find fun events for all ages.

Florida hosts some amazing events and festivals. Each month I hope to take a look at a dozen or so of these in hopes of bringing you fun, exciting, and unexpected ways to enjoy our state.

If you have an event or know of one coming up that you feel should be highlighted, please drop me a line with as much information as you can, including a website. I’ll be glad to include your suggestions in future posts.

I have listed events in date order.

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Antique Tractor and Engine Show

April 4th through 6th White Springs

Compete in the tractor pulls and watch demonstrations of shingle milling, corn grinding, home canning and more. Unusual engines for everyday purposes with exhibits and collections of flywheels, hit and miss engines, water pumps, vintage pedal tractors, antique cars, and farm equipment.

On Saturday morning, an antique tractor parade will feature everything from customized lawn tractors to restored farm machinery. Try your luck at our raffle prizes, shop and eat with our vendors. We have tons of family fun activities and a kid’s area on Saturday!

$5 per vehicle up to 8 people included.

Old Florida Celebration of the Arts

April 6 and 7 Cedar Key

Established in 1964 and formerly known as the Cedar Key Sidewalk Arts Festival, the Old Florida Celebration of the Arts returned to a juried fine art fair format in 2006. Over the past 15 years, the festival’s reputation has grown and it is now recognized as one of the top Small-Town Art Fairs in the nation. Welcoming only 100 high-quality artists and about 15-18,000 visitors annually, the event radiates a relaxed and friendly atmosphere often missing in larger venues.

The event is free.

6th Annual Sebring Soda Festival

April 6-7 Sebring

This niche event has gained local, state, and national media attention thanks to its unique concept and the local Soda Shop that sparked the idea. It’s no wonder people flock to the festival each year to enjoy two days of old-fashioned fun in historic downtown Sebring.

Indulge in a wide array of traditional and unique sodas, including flavors like caramel apple, prickly pear, espresso, and candied bacon. Discover vintage favorites like Cheerwine, Moxie, and RC Cola, along with small-batch creations made with real sugar or honey from renowned companies across the US.

Festival admission is free. Soda tasting punch cards of varying value will be available for purchase on the website. This is a leashed dog friendly event!

St. Augustine Poetfest

April 11-13 St. Augustine

For the third year in a row, Flagler College, Ancient City Poets, and the St. Johns Cultural Council present a three-day poetry festival to celebrate literary heritage and to connect the creative community.

St. Augustine PoetFest 2024 takes place throughout the city at various cultural venues and includes events ranging from poetry readings to improv showcases.

All Poetfest 2024 events are free and open to the public. Click the link for details on locations, dates, and times.

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Tampa Bay Blues Festival

April 12-14 St. Petersburg

America’s finest waterfront blues festival, with great food vendors, full liquor bars, craft beers and wines. Please order tickets and VIP passes now for three great days of blues by the bay!

Single day, general admission tickets start at $70. Packages are available.

Delray Affair

April 12th through 14th Delray Beach

This isn’t just an ordinary art event—it’s an immersive experience that invites you to explore the extraordinary. Lose yourself in the diverse range of artistic expressions, from mesmerizing paintings to intricate sculptures, captivating photography, and beyond. Each step unveils a new discovery, a new opportunity to connect with the artists and their captivating stories.

As you stroll through the Delray Affair, you’ll be captivated by the infectious energy that permeates the air. Feel the pulse of creativity as the streets come alive with live demonstrations, engaging workshops, and interactive experiences that invite you to unleash your own artistic spirit.

The event is free but there may be charges to park in certain locations.

Pinellas Pepper Fest April 13 and 14 Pinellas Park

Featuring all things related to spicy foods. Enjoy sauces, bbq, spices, peppers, and delicious food everywhere. Spicy music, food trucks, and more. This is a pet and family friendly event.

Admission is free.

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Sharks Tooth Festival

April 13 and 14 Venice

This unique events has something for everyone. Vendors, music, food, adult beverages, educational speakers, the Manasota Fossil Club. a kids zone, and more.

Venice is billed as the shark tooth capital of the world. This event looks like it is going to be huge. Review the website for all the activities and vendors.

This event is free to attend. Some parking facilities may have a charge. Free parking is available and a trolley service will be operating in the downtown area.

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New Smyrna Beach Food Festival April 18 New Smyrna Beach

The New Smyrna Beach Food Festival is from 5-9 p.m., Thursday, April 18th 2024, along Flagler Avenue. Multiple eateries may sample taste-sized portions of Volusia County restaurants’ best dishes priced from $5 to $8. Enjoy live entertainment along the Avenue, shopping with the Merchants on Flagler Avenue and various vendors who sell their handmade items! Restaurants will be competing for the “Best on the Beach” award this year

Miami-Dade Countryfest

April 20-21 Miami

The Miami-Dade CountryFest, formerly known as the Miami Agriculture, Horse and Cattle Show, has been a staple event since 2015. This FREE annual festival offers a weekend of entertainment for all ages and attracts cattle enthusiasts from around the globe.

Experience two days of non-stop fun with rodeos, vendors, live music, food trucks, kids zones, and other enjoyable activities. This year’s event will feature a thrilling professional rodeo show, adding to the excitement. Although the festival has a new name, it still retains many of its beloved traditions, making it an event you don’t want to miss.

General admission is free. Bleacher and VIP seating options are available for purchase.

Pompano Beach Seafood Festival

April 20-21 Pompano Beach

The Festival, a non profit event, was founded in 1984 by the Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Pompano Beach Fishing Rodeo to support local charities in the Pompano Beach Area. Featuring some of the greatest musicians and artists in South Florida, the annual event has become a staple in the community. The proceeds of the annual festival stay in the community benefiting 12 great local charities.

Featuring seafood and other foods, more than 100 vendor booths, and music.

This event is looks to be geared more toward adults with tickets running $15 per day or a two day ticket of $20. Kids under 12 are admitted free. Only 1 sealed bottle of water may brought into the event. No outside drinks, coolers, or large bags. As you would guess no dogs allowed. The wording on their website isn’t very friendly about these demands either.

Pensacola Crawfish Festival

April 26-28 Pensacola

The Pensacola Crawfish Festival features thousands of pounds of boiled crawfish, fresh from Louisiana, brought to you by Pensacola locals, Cordova Crawfish Company. Cajun fare features include: boudin, jambalaya, etouffee, fresh and fried seafood, gumbo, and much more!

Plenty of seafood, non-seafood, music, and vendors will be on hand. Budweiser and Coca-Cola products will be available for purchase.

Adult admission is $5, kids ages 6-12 are $2, under 6 admitted free.

Floridiana Fest

April 27 Gulfport

The Floridania Fest is the ultimate marketplace for vintage Florida souvenirs, cool kitsch, advertising, art and ephemera. No matter what your vintage Florida interest is, you’ll probably find it at this show! All the leading dealers of vintage Florida items will be there, plus several leading Florida authors.

Admission is $5. Children under 14, free.

If the Floridiana Fest is of interest to you, you might consider reading my review of the book Florida Roadside Attractions History. This is a step back to the days when the landscape wasn’t dotted with Disney, Universal, and massive cookie cutter housing developments.

Sweet Corn Fiesta April 28 West Palm Beach

Enjoy delicious sweet corn, foods, games, craft and other vendors, contests including corn eating and corn shucking, and more. This event has been called the kid friendliest event of the year.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12, under 6 are free.

To conclude, I want to thank you for reading my listing of the best events and festivals in Florida in April 2024. Check back every month otherwise you might miss out on a great event you did not know about. If you are sponsoring or hosting an upcoming event, drop me a line so I can include it. Maybe we can work together on a blog post and social media posts to promote the event. Let’s hear your ideas.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence my views and opinions

Posted on March 15, 2024March 15, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Historic Florida Churches Book Release Arcadia Publishing

Arcadia Publishing New Release

Arcadia Publishing continues it’s role of releasing geographically focused works of history with their new book release, Historic Florida Churches, written by Joy Sheffield Harris.

Harris is the author of several prior Arcadia releases including A Culinary History of Florida: Prickly Pears, Datil Peppers, & Key Limes; The Florida Cracker Cookbook: Recipes and Stories from Cabin to Condo; and Florida Sweets: Key Lime Pie, Kumquats, & Citrus Candy. All of these titles sound delicious don’t they?

Harris, Joy Sheffield. Historic Florida Churches. Charleston: Arcadia Publishing. 2024. ISBN 9781467155724, 24.99. 127 pages, 122 pages of text. Bibliography, b/w photos, color photos.

From the publisher:

Over 200 years have passed since the first Florida church was established and today the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine has been restored to capture its original beauty. Pioneer Village Church at Shingle Creek is home to a replica of one the first churches built in the Kissimmee, the St. John’s Episcopal Church. The former St. Paul’s By-The-Sea is now the deconsecrated Beaches Chapel at The Beaches Museum and History Park in Jacksonville Beach. Travel throughout the state or enjoy the beauty of these and many more churches without leaving home.

Thank you to Arcadia Publishing for providing a complimentary review copy of this book. A review will be forthcoming.

Thank you for reading my post announcing Historic Florida Churches, a new book release from Arcadia Publishing. Read my reviews of other Arcadia Publishing titles using THIS LINK.

This post may contain affiliate links including Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence views and opinions provided in my blog.

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Posted on March 12, 2024July 26, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Florida Prohibition Book Release from Arcadia Publishing

Arcadia Publishing New Release

Arcadia Publishing continues it’s role of releasing geographically focused works with their new book release, Florida Prohibition: Corruption, Defiance, & Tragedy, written by Randy Jaye.

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Jaye, Randy. Florida Prohibition: Corruption, Defiance, & Tragedy. Charleston: Arcadia Publishing. 2024. ISBN 9781467155823, $24.99. 171 pages, 164 pages of text. Bibliography, b/w images.

From the publisher:

Prohibition is recognized as the most unpopular law in US history. It was so unpopular at the time that some Floridians weren’t all too keen on obeying it. Learn how it was instigated by small town Protestants who believed that newer immigrants living in big cities were immoral because of their emphatic use of alcohol. Prohibition bred corruption, defiance of the law, and hypocrisy as illegal bootlegging, moonshining and rum running replaced legitimate taxpaying industries.

Florida actually voted state-wide Prohibition into law before the dreaded 18th amendment and was the only state to elect a governor from the Prohibition Party. Florida’s Bill McCoy “The Real McCoy” founded Rum Row and became an international celebrity as he made a mockery of the U.S. Coast Guard’s inability to squelch his innovative rum running operations. Al Capone, the infamous gangster, vacationed in Florida while his henchmen perpetrated the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. Many virtually unknown stories of tragic killings in Florida during Prohibition are also recounted.

Visit Chicago, the city best known for it’s lawlessness during the Prohibition era. You’ll never run out of things to do in the Windy City. Click the link above for great ideas and money saving offers.

Thank you to Arcadia Publishing for providing a complimentary review copy of this book. A review will be forthcoming.

This post may contain affiliate links including Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence views and opinions provided in my blog.

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Posted on March 8, 2024August 27, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Turnbull Grand Canal Florida Historic Marker

New Smyrna Beach is where you will find the Turnbull Grand Canal Florida Historic Marker. The City of New Smyrna Beach and the Florida Department of State are the marker sponsors. In 2018 sponsors placed the monument for public viewing.

If you would like to read other posts on my blog about Florida historic markers, please CLICK HERE.

The National Register of Historic Places includes the Turnbull Canal System. You may see the National Park Service NRHP file using THIS LINK.

To learn more about the Turnbull Settlement, please visit the New Smyrna Museum of History.

TEXT

The Turnbull Grand Canal, also known as the Grand Canal, was built by indentured servants brought to the area by Scottish physician Dr. Andrew Turnbull in 1768. As part of the largest single attempt at British colonization in North America, Smyrnea Settlement, Turnbull attracted more than 1,400 Minorcans, Corsicans, Greeks, and Italians, who sought the promise of new opportunities in Florida. Turnbull was impressed by the Egyptian canal system and wanted to replicate it in Smyrnea. Three canals ran east-west and were linked with a fourth longer canal known as the Grand Canal that ran north-south and connected to Turnbull Bay. These hand-dug canals provided irrigation and drainage for rice, hemp, cotton, and indigo crops, and served as a mode of transportation within the colony. After nine years of harsh treatment under Turnbull, drought, and crop failures, the colony’s population fell to about 600 people. In 1777 a group of Smyrnea colonists walked 70 miles to St. Augustine to petition British East Florida Governor Patrick Tonyn for release from their indentures. After hearing the case, Governor Tonyn gave them their freedom and granted them land north of St. Augustine.

F-1025

A Florida Heritage Site

Sponsored by the City of New Smyrna Beach, the Historic New Smyrna Beach Preservation Commission, Mayor James Hathaway, Vice Mayor Jason McGuirk, Commissioner Judy Reiker, Commissioner Jake Sachs, Commissioner Randy Hartman, and the Florida Department of State.

2018

Turnbull Grand Canal Florida Historic Marker is located at the corner of SR 44 and Walker Drive in New Smyrna Beach. It is located across Walker Drive from Auto Zone. — The Turnbull Grand Canal marker is located at the corner of SR 44 and Walker Drive in New Smyrna Beach. It is on the south side of SR 44 across Walker from **Auto Zone**.

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Use Tiqets.com to find the best attractions at the best prices all over the world. Visit their site and enter your destination.

Posted on March 3, 2024September 20, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

The Best Events and Festivals in Florida in March 2024

Are you searching for the best events and festivals in Florida in March 2024? Thanks for visiting. Please use the links below to find fun events for all ages.

Florida hosts some amazing events and festivals. Each month I hope to take a look at a dozen or so of these in hopes of bringing you fun, exciting, and unexpected ways to enjoy our state.

I have listed events in date order.

Plant City Florida Strawberry Festival

February 29 through March 10

Strawberries and more strawberries are the theme of this amazing annual festival. Enjoy agriculture, industry, livestock, commerce, fine arts, horticulture, arts & crafts, and strawberries. Live music from groups such as the Oak Ridge Boys, the Beach Boys, Black Eyed Peas (though it doesn’t look like Fergie is with them), ZZ Top, Foreigner, Flo Rida, and many, many more. Enjoy over 80 games, attractions, and rides at the Belle City Midway.

Family fun, a date night, or an evening with friends, the Plant City Strawberry Festival has something for everyone. Click the image to check the website for ticket prices.

Pigapalooza

March 8 & 9 in Mulberry

The City of Mulberry is pleased to announce the return of Pigapalooza!, an FBA sanctioned BBQ competition. But this isn’t just BBQ, it’s Pigapalooza! We will host vendors, a kid zone, live music, and of course the opportunity to purchase award winning barbecue. This year we are launching Pigapalooza’s first Kids-Que!

Will McLean Music Festival

March 8 through 10 in Brooksville

A premier event that will entertain you with 80 folk music groups performing on 3 covered stages. Music styles include original and traditional songs, in Americana, Blues, Celtic, Bluegrass, Country, and Modern Folk. Besides performances, there are workshops, several jam areas, a young musician’s program, a children’s area and a performance of the winners of The Best New Florida Song contest. Food and craft vendors supply all your cravings.

South Florida Food Fest and Craft Fair

March 9 & 10 in Boca Raton

Two days of delicious foods priced from $1-$5 so sample everything. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be available. Music from popular local musicians, artisans, and a craft fair round out this amazing weekend in Boca Raton. Click the link or the image to buy your tickets in advance. Only $15 for a 2-day pass.

Tarpon Springs Fine Arts Festival

March 9 & 10

49 years strong, the Tarpon Springs Fine Arts Festival is one of the leading arts events in Florida.

More than 150 artists will have their work on exhibit. Works will be judged but also will be for sale. Music, craft beer, and foods will be available.

THIS EVENT IS NOT PET FRIENDLY!!! They are using the old tired excuse of “insurance.”

Clewiston Sugar Festival

March 16

Over the years our festival has grown into a multi-day event, beginning with sports tournaments and a Miss Sugar Pageant leading up to the main festival day, followed by a Friday Night Kickoff concert with food trucks on festival weekend.

The event, including the concert lineup are free, making this a great family event.

On Saturday, the main festival day, attendees can enjoy free live music concerts, an antique tractor display, a car show, a free kids play park, visit a local baking contest and a professional baking display, plus enjoy the offerings of various food and crafts vendors present.

Marco Island Seafood & Music Festival

March 22-24

Enjoy stone crab, shrimp, and more, along with your favorite adult beverages. Live music will be performed throughout the event. Join more than 60 arts and craft vendors and let the kids play in the Kids Zone. Fun for the entire family. Tickets are $10 for adults, under age 12 are free.

Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival

March 22 & 23

This is a unique event, featuring writing and publishing workshops, and a special day when local and national authors sell and sign books at a festival market in a beautiful downtown park.

About 35 authors and not for profit organizations are currently signed up to attend. Be sure to support your local authors.

Pints n’ Paws Craft Beer Festival

March 23 in Sanford

Pints n’ Paws Craft Beer Festival is annual fundraiser you bring your dog to featuring over 100 breweries, food trucks, vendors, live entertainment and community in beautiful Historic Downtown Sanford, Florida. Each year one of the activities that everyone looks forward to is our Annual Poster Dog Contest to see who’s furry friend will shine on next year’s poster and event marketing.

Now in its 12th year, it has raised over $600,000 to date for local pet rescues!

It is hosted by the Sanfording Event Production Group of West End Trading Co., Celery City Craft and Historic Downtown Sanford® and is one of the premier events in Sanford, Florida!

The event is free to attend. Beer tasting tickets are available online in advance and I imagine can be purchased the afternoon of the event.

Florida Wildflower and Garden Festival

March 23 in DeLand

A forum to promote environmentally-friendly and sustainable gardening practices featuring an array of vendors and presentations by wildflower and gardening experts. Vendors and speakers will be on hand. Free admission and free parking is available throughout DeLand.

Islamorada Island Fest

March 23 and 24

Island Fest returns to Islamorada on March 23 & 24, 2024 featuring a juried art show, live music, great food, classic cars and much more. The annual Islamorada Chamber of Commerce fundraiser, now in its 32nd year, will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside.

Around 100 artists will be taking part in the show. Delicious food can be found everywhere, including the smoked fish dip contest on Saturday. Try your hand at the homemade boat race with multiple categories for prizes. Musical guests and a large car show make this an event with something for every member of the family.

Free admission and on-site parking is $5.

Panacea Beer and Oyster Festival

March 30

The Panacea Beer and Oyster Festival is held along Dickerson Bay at Woolley Park in Panacea, Florida. The festival features unlimited samplings of local and national craft beers in the beer garden and will host local oyster farmers who will have their delicious oysters available for purchase!

The festival will also feature food & craft vendors, live music, and a beautiful view for sipping and shucking!

All proceeds benefit the Panacea Waterfronts Florida Partnership. Tickets are $25 and are only necessary if you would like to participate in the beer tastings held in the BEER GARDEN, or would like to accompany someone in. The rest of the event is open to the public to enjoy.

To conclude, I want to thank you for reading my listing of the best events and festivals in Florida in March 2024. Check back every month otherwise you might miss out on a great event you did not know about. If you are sponsoring or hosting an upcoming event, drop me a line so I can include it. Maybe we can work together on a blog post to promote the event. Let’s hear your ideas.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence my views and opinions

Posted on March 1, 2024August 12, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Haunted America New Releases from Arcadia Publishing

Arcadia Publishing continues their Haunted America series with two new releases for your consideration. Both books are Florida based and should be of interest to readers interested in ghosts, haunted history, and Florida history.

After you enjoy this post about two new releases in the Haunted America series, read more of my posts related to Arcadia Publishing titles, using THIS LINK.

Arcadia Publishing has generously supplied complimentary review copies of two new releases in their Haunted America series of books. I will be providing book reviews for these books in the near future. Both books are now available for pre-release purchase through your local bookstore or online outlets.

Haunted Florida Ghost Towns

Leigh, Heather. Haunted Florida Ghost Towns. Charleston: History Press, 2024. 128 pages, ISBN 9781467156479, $21.99.

The term “ghost towns” brings to mind communities from the Old West where there were once bustling Boom Towns but today are abandoned and lonely pieces to the puzzles of the past. With this image ingrained into a person’s mind, it is challenging to visualize ghost towns with sandy beaches and palm trees swaying in the wind. A little-known fact about Florida is it is home to more than 250 ghost towns, many of which remain the home for the spirits of former inhabitants, civil war deserters, pirates, and more. Haunted Florida Ghost Towns covers the many abandoned locations in the Sunshine State where paranormal entities are known to roam. Take a journey into the world of the supernatural and learn the history behind why Florida has so many ghost towns and the energy that remains to fuel paranormal activity.

Haunted America New Releases from Arcadia Publishing.Take a ghost bus tour in beautiful York, England. — Enjoy 75 spooky minutes of sightseeing in York, England on board the Ghost Bus! Your creepy conductor will show you the city’s top sights and give you bone-chilling and humorous insights into some of the more gruesome events in York, England’s past. Click the image or **THIS LINK** for information and to book your ghost bus tour.

Haunted Indian River County

Lawson, Lawrence. Haunted Indian River County. Charleston, History Press, 2024. 139 pages, ISBN 978467155748, $21.99

Indian River County is an idyllic vacation spot on Florida’s east coast, not far south of Cape Canaveral. Known as part of the state’s famed “Treasure Coast,” many are unaware of the deep and fascinating history this area played in the development of the Sunshine State. Also lost among its visitors and residents are the chilling stories of the hauntings that accompany this rich history. It is here that a man named Waldo still looks after his family and properties, six decades after his death. Or a retired preacher is seen digging up his hidden treasure, days after he died .

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Posted on February 16, 2024July 14, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Sites in Bowman Georgia Worth Visiting

Bowman, Georgia

Bowman, Georgia is a small town located in Elbert County in the northeast portion of the state. The town boasts a population of around 900. Bowman is located between the towns of Elberton and Royston along Georgia State Route 17. Elberton is known by the nickname of the “Granite Capital of the World.” Royston is famous for it’s association with Hall of Fame baseball player Ty Cobb. If you are driving State Road 17 in Georgia do not miss these sites in Bowman Georgia that are worth visiting.

To read my review of the book Ty Cobb: A Terrible Beauty, click HERE.

Thomas Jefferson Bowman and the growth of the Elberton Air Line Railroad in the 1870s led for the formation of the city of Bowman. The Georgia General Assembly incorporated the city in 1907. John Judson Brown, was elected the first mayor of Bowman in 1910. Brown would later serve as the Commissioner of Agriculture in Georgia and founded the Georgia Farm Market Bulletin.

After the turn of the twentieth century, four trains made daily service to Bowman. The then thriving community was home to two blacksmith shops, two barber shops, a harness store, livery stable, hotel, and several mills. Baptist and Methodist churches provided for the spiritual needs of residents.

Much of the history of Bowman, GA can be found through this interesting 1938 footage. This is on the University of Georgia Brown Media Archives page.

In 2009 the Building at 6 and 7 Public Square was added to the National Register of Historic Places for its significance in architecture as an excellent representation of commercial buildings in small towns during the early 20th century. The building is also deemed important in the field of commerce as it served as home to numerous business from its construction date in 1908 through the middle of the 20th century. Business types included a brickyard, gin, shoe and harness shop, blacksmith, lumber yard, bank, drug store, grocery, and telephone company.

The National Register of Historic Places added the Bowman Commercial District to its listings in 2016. The completed nomination form does not appear to be available online yet.

Today, Bowman plays host to two large, yearly festivals, the Big Iron Crank Up, held in the spring and the Bowman Fall Festival held in October.

My wife and I have driven through Bowman on several occasions on our way a bit further north. The last time through my wife was driving and I had her stop so I could take a few photos.

Stop at the corner of SR17 and SR172 to view interesting sites you will only find in Bowman, Georgia.

Little Police Station

The first place to visit is the City of Bowman’s Famous “Little Police Station.” Bowman doesn’t make claim to having the world’s smallest police station, but this would probably give most a serious run for the money.

Measuring only several feet square with a single door, the station is located adjacent to the railroad tracks.

If you are interested in finding the world’s smallest police station, you’ll have to drive south, to Carabelle, Florida. Located at the corner of US 98 and CR 67 is the world’s smallest. Read more about the Carrabelle police station/phone booth using THIS LINK.

Small police station claims are also made by

Ridgeway, South Carolina

Britain’s Smallest Police Station

Mecole Hardman, Jr.

Every small town seems to have the high school athlete that is just better than everyone around them. For Bowman, that young man is Mecole Hardman, Jr. A rather prominent sign proclaiming his ties to the town is located a very short distance from the little police station.

Hardman had a standout college career at the University of Georgia, where in addition to playing wide receiver, he also returned kicks. Hardman opted out of his senior year of college eligibility. He was drafted in the second round of the 2019 draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. Playing alongside superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Hardman made 151 catches in less than four years (due to injury) and ultimately was part of two Super Bowl winning teams.

After the 2022 season Hardman became a free agent and in March 2023, signed with the New York Jets. In October 2023, Hardman was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs, reuniting him with the team where he had his greatest success. In February 2024, Mecole Hardman caught the Super Bowl winning touchdown pass from Patrick Mahomes.

Super Bowl hero Mecole Hardman talks about playing in the Super Bowl, starting the season with the Jets and ending the season with the Chiefs, who was the craziest at the after party, Post Malone performing, blacking out when he scored the game winning touchdown, the play that they called, growing up in Bowman, Georgia, and the parade.

Bowman Area Veterans Memorial

This unique monument with W for World War I and II, a K for the Korean Conflict, and V for Vietnam is;

Dedicated to the glory of God and all veterans of the Bowman Community, more especially to these who have given their lives for our nation’s cause.

Listed are the names of seventeen men from the Bowman area who gave their lives while in service. I am currently working on a more detailed post/s for these men and will link from here once complete.

Listed below, are the names on the monument. If known, I have referred as to the war these men perished in. When possible, I have linked names to online memorials.

Jimmy Lee Almond Korea (his correct name is Jimmie)

Joe Robert Burton World War II

Lloyd George Burton World War II (killed in a flight training accident at Cecil Field)

Ouitman Bone Drake World War II (his correct name is Quitman)

Robert Edward Echols Vietnam

Edison H. Lunsford post World War II

Samuel T. Martin currently unknown

Benjamin M. Maxwell World War II (see HERE also)

Hugh Hall Maxwell World War II (see HERE also)

Charles C. Mayfield Vietnam

Dorsey A. Pulliam World War II (killed in airplane accident at Smyrna Army Air Field in Tennessee)

Julian Pulliam World War II

Charles Stakley Roberts, Jr. World War II (see HERE also)

George Henry Rousey 1960 (killed in a single car accident in Hampton, Virginia)

Clifford Farris Rucker World War II (see HERE also)

Thomas Gary Sikes Vietnam

James Fletcher Webb World War II (see HERE also)

To the side of the main memorial is a flat stone dedicated to World War II veteran Samuel Johnson Verner who passed away at the age of 76 in 1989. Verner is buried at Lavonia-Burgess City Cemetery in Franklin County, GA.

Dorsey Alexander Pulliam and Julian Pulliam were brothers.

Lloyd George Burton and Joe Robert Burton were brothers.

I have not confirmed the relationship Hugh Hall Maxwell and Benjamin Martin Maxwell. They may or may not have been related.

Please share any information on any of these service members, especially photos or memories. As I put together individual posts about these men, I will include your histories. You will receive full credit for any materials shared.

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What to Expect

What is Included

Examples

Some Cautionary Notes

Takeaways

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In Memory Officer Roy L. Nelson New Smyrna Beach Police Department

Officer Roy Nelson New Smyrna Beach Police

The Fatal Accident

The Aftermath

Sources

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April 4th through 6th White Springs

April 6 and 7 Cedar Key

April 6-7 Sebring

April 11-13 St. Augustine

April 12-14 St. Petersburg

April 12th through 14th Delray Beach

Pinellas Pepper Fest April 13 and 14 Pinellas Park

April 13 and 14 Venice

New Smyrna Beach Food Festival April 18 New Smyrna Beach

April 20-21 Miami

April 20-21 Pompano Beach

April 26-28 Pensacola

April 27 Gulfport

Sweet Corn Fiesta April 28 West Palm Beach

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence my views and opinions

Arcadia Publishing New Release

From the publisher:

Thank you to Arcadia Publishing for providing a complimentary review copy of this book. A review will be forthcoming.

Arcadia Publishing New Release

From the publisher:

Thank you to Arcadia Publishing for providing a complimentary review copy of this book. A review will be forthcoming.

TEXT

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence my views and opinions

Arcadia Publishing continues their Haunted America series with two new releases for your consideration. Both books are Florida based and should be of interest to readers interested in ghosts, haunted history, and Florida history.

Haunted Florida Ghost Towns

Haunted Indian River County

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence the views expressed in this post

Bowman, Georgia

To read my review of the book Ty Cobb: A Terrible Beauty, click HERE.

Little Police Station

Bowman Area Veterans Memorial

Please share any information on any of these service members, especially photos or memories. As I put together individual posts about these men, I will include your histories. You will receive full credit for any materials shared.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This commission does not affect any price that you pay. Affiliate programs or sponsors providing products do not influence the views and opinions shared on this blog.

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