Posted on May 1, 2023April 26, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Volusia County History: A Bibliography with links

Volusia County History A Bibliography with Links

Volusia County is located on the east coast of Florida and is home to more than 550,000 residents and growing daily. The county is currently a prime retirement area for transplants. Read further to discover my Volusia County History bibliography with links. It will help guide you to relevant source material, much of it easily obtainable.

County management is handled by an elected County Council consisting of two at-large members and five district elected members. The Chair position is one of the at-large members.

In 2021, nearly ten million visitors came to Volusia County. Many came to enjoy the “World’s Most Famous Beach,” while others arrived for NASCAR and other racing events, while Bike Week and Biketoberfest continue to draw strong crowds. Events such as the November Turkey Run, spring break, and the multi-day Welcome To Rockville concerts bring short-term visitors to the county. The Ocean Center draws sporting events, conventions, and the occasional concert which help put “heads in beds.”

While tourism is a main draw, the county has a wide and varied history consisting of colorful characters and events. This bibliography is my attempt to bring together a listing of material for readers related to Volusia County history. The term “history” is open to interpretation. I will try to be lenient in my use of the term.

I am providing links when I can so that you can purchase, or if possible, download or read online, for yourself. Materials may be available through the Volusia County Library system. Please check there. Even if it is not in your local branch, books can be sent to your preferred branch. Some books may be non-circulating such as those in genealogy collections and you will need to visit a particular location.

A couple of things about this bibliography. It is not meant to be all inclusive. This is an ongoing project and I invite your input with works I have not included. Also, new material is being published consistently. I try to keep up but this is a one person operation. Updates will be made to the list as required.

I will not be linking items such as newspaper articles. Mainstream magazine articles are fair game if they appear to have value. Peer reviewed academic journal articles will be included though availability of these may be quite limited. There have been, and continue to be, many local, “freebie,” magazine and entertainment guides. Keeping up with them is nearly impossible and finding older issues is the same. Unless something truly strikes me, I am avoiding these.

I am not including links to social media pages. Most of these pages/groups are not very good and the egalitarian nature of social media means anybody with a keyboard can make a statement and way too many take them as fact. Rather than be accused of playing favorites, I am avoiding these pages altogether.

Websites and blogs that show good solid research and writing will be included. Many good historians/writers are sharing their work in these formats. YouTube channels? Maybe.

Works of fiction are not generally included in this bibliography.

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I have chosen to set this listing up by city and a general county history section. My thought is that if you are looking for materials on Oak Hill you can find that heading rather than reviewing the entire list.

At the end of the list, you will find a listings of Volusia County based historical societies and museums. Be sure to reach out to these organizations if you have specific questions. There is also a section titled “people.” This is for those individuals who have made an impact on Volusia County for the better or the worse.

I make no guarantees as to the historical accuracy of the materials listed. I have not read and do not own copies of all of the sources lists. While I can certainly vouch for research standards many of the listed authors use, I recommend you draw your own conclusions. Works with foot/end notes and bibliographies are probably more reliable than those without. Notes and bibliographies allow readers to follow up on sources and verify statements.

I want this listing to be a joint project with you, the reader. If you know of sources I have not listed, please drop me a line or add a comment. Please provide as much information as possible and links if the material is digital. I will update the list with your suggestions.

I invite you to provide your thoughts on the resources listed below. If you feel a book or article is a must read, please let readers know and why you feel this way. If you think something is poor, that is acceptable. Please make sure your remarks are respectful and explain your reasoning. Is the research bad? Why do you think a work is not good? Personal attacks on authors or subject matter will not be approved for posting.

General County Histories

Dreggors, William J. and John Stephen Hess. A Century of West Volusia County 1860-1960. DeLand: West Volusia Historical Society, 1993.

Dreggors, William J., and John Stephen Hess. A Pictorial History of West Volusia County 1870-1940. DeLand: West Volusia Historical Society, 1989.

Fitzgerald, T.E. Volusia County Past and Present. Daytona Beach: The Observer Press, 1937.

Francke, Arthur E. Jr., Alyce Hockaday Gillingham, and Maxine Carey Turner. Volusia The West Side. DeLand: West Volusia Historical Society, 1986.

French, Larry. Grand Hotels of West Volusia County (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2018.

Friend, Lani. “Volusia and Vibilia: Companion Plantations on the St. Johns River in Spanish and Territorial East Florida,” Florida Historical Quarterly. Volume 97, No. 4 (2019): 379-406.

Gaby, Donald C. “Volusia; The Origin of a Name.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 76, No. 1.

Gold, Daniel Pleasant. History of Volusia County Florida. DeLand: E.O. Painter Printing Co., 1927.

Hebel, Ianthe Bond. Centennial History of Volusia County, Florida, 1854-1954. DeLand: Volusia County Historical Commission, 1955.

Langlotz, Patricia Callan. The Odyssey of an American School System: Volusia County Schools 1854-2000. DeLand: Volusia County Schools, 2000.

Minshew, Paul and Jack Towle. “The 1998 Wildfires in Central Florida: Volusia County’s Own Armageddon.” Journal of Environmental Health. Vol. 61, No. 7 (1999): p. 22-26.

Schene, Michael G. Hopes, Dreams & Promises: A History of Volusia County, Florida. Daytona Beach: News-Journal Corporation, 1976.

Williamson, Ronald. Volusia County’s West Side: Steamboats & Sandhills (American Chronicles). Charleston: History Press, 2008.

Barberville

Brotemarkle, Benjamin D. Barberville (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2005.

Cassadaga

Guthrie, John J. Jr., Phillip Charles Lucas, and Gary Monroe, editors. Cassadaga: The South’s Oldest Spiritualist Community. Gainesville: University Press of Florida, 2000.

Guthrie, John J. Jr., “Seeking the Sweet Spirit of Harmony: Establishing a Spiritualist Community at Cassadaga, Florida, 1893-1933.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 77, No. 1.

Along the Beach Looking Toward Seabreeze Courtesy Florida MemoryVolusia County History Bibliography with links — Along the Beach Looking Toward Seabreeze
Courtesy Florida Memory

Daytona Beach

Atwell, Cheryl, and Vincent Clarida. Daytona Beach and the Halifax River Area (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 1998.

Cambre, Dale. Daytona Beach, Florida: A Postcard Tour (Postcard History Series). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 1998.

Cardwell, Harold D. Daytona Beach 100 Years of Racing (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing 2002.

Cardwell, Harold D. Historic Photos of Daytona Beach. Nashville: Turner Publishing Company, 2007.

Cardwll, Harold D., Sr., and Patricia D. Cardwell. Historic Daytona Beach (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2004.

Halifax Herald. This journal is published by the Halifax Historical Society and is a trove of information relating to the east side of Volusia County. Individual articles are not generally referenced in this listing. To the best of my knowledge there is no easy to use index for this journal.

Lamb, Chris. Blackout: The Untold Story of Jackie Robinson’s First Spring Training. Lincoln: Bison Books, 2006.

Lane, Mark. Legendary Locals of Daytona Beach. Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2015.

Lempel, Leonard R. “The Mayor’s ‘Henchmen and Henchwomen, Both White and Colored,’ Edward H. Armstrong and the Politics of Race in Daytona Beach, 1900-1940.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 79, No. 3.

Light, Patti. Daytona Beach Lifeguards (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2010.

Punnett, Dick. Beach Racers: Daytona Before NASCAR. Gainesville: University Press of Florida, 2008.

Punnett, Dick, and Yvonne Punnett. Racing on the Rim: A History of the Annual Automobile Racing Tournaments Held on the Sands of the Ormond-Daytona Beach, Florida 1903-1910. Self Published, 1997.

Punnett, Dick, and Yvonne Punnett. Thrills, Chills and Spills: A Photographic History of Early Aviation on the World’s Most Bizarre Airport, Daytona Beach, Florida, 1906-1929. Self Published, 1990.

Smith, Dusty. Haunted Daytona Beach (Haunted America). Charleston: History Press, 2007.

Snyder, Robert E. “Daytona Beach: A Closed Society.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 81, No. 2.

Spencer, Donald. Greetings from Daytona Beach. Atglen: Schiffer Publishing, 2008.

Strickland, Alice. “Florida’s Golden Age of Racing.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 45 No. 3 (1967): 253-269.

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DeBary

Brooks, Edith G. Saga of Frederick de Bary and de Bary Hall, Florida. Convention Press, 1968.

Allen Hall, Stetson University Courtesy Florida MemoryVolusia County History Bibliography with link — Allen Hall, Stetson University
Courtesy Florida Memory

DeLand

Blake, Jason. “The Integration of Stetson University.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 82, No. 4.

Caccamise, Louise Ball. Echoes of Yesterday: A History of the DeLand Area Public Library, 1912-1995. New Smyrna Beach: Luther’s Publishing Co.

Caccamise, Louise Ball. Memory Lane: A History of the Street Names of DeLand. DeLand: West Volusia Historical Society, 2013.

DeLand, Helen. Story of DeLand and Lake Helen. Norwich: Louis W. Walden. 1928.

Hall, Maggi Smith, Michael Justin Holder, and West Volusia Historical Society. DeLand (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2003.

Hall, Maggi Smith. Stetson University (Campus History). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2005.

Johnston, Sidney. “The Historic Stetson University Campus in DeLand, 1884-1934” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 70, No. 3.

Lycan, Gilbert L. Stetson University: The First 100 Years. DeLand: Stetson University Press, 1983.

Roberts, L. Thomas, and West Volusia Historical Society. DeLand (Postcard History Series). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2014.

Smith, Dusty. Haunted DeLand and the Ghosts of West Volusia County (Haunted America). Charleston: History Press, 2008.

Stetson University Department of History

DeLeon Springs

Deltona

Edgewater

Sammons, Sandra Wallus, and Joanne Sikes. Edgewater (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2005.

Enterprise

Hartsfield, Stephen T. Under the Sheltering Tree: A Brief History of the Florida United Methodist Children’s Home, 1908-2008. N.P., N.D.

Holly Hill

Wiggins, Dean, and Adele Fredenberg. Gnomes of Holly Hill. Self Published, 2020.

Lake Helen

Schneider, Dorothy, and Ed L. Blackman. Lake Helen: The Gem of Florida The First 100 Years. Self Published, 2016.

New Smyrna Beach

Bockelman, Charles. Six Columns and Fort New Smyrna. DeLand: E.O. Painter Printing, Co., 1985.

Coe, Charles. Debunking the So Called Spanish Mission Near New Smyrna Beach. Washington D.C. 1941.

Cook-Wilson, Ethel. Isn’t That God’s Water? The Advent and Demise of Bethune-Volusia Beach Incorporated. Self Published, 2015.

Cumiskey, Kate. Surfing in New Smyrna Beach (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2010.

Detwiler, John Y. “Antiquities at and near New Smyrna, Florida.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 1, No. 3.

Doggett, Carita. Dr. Andrew Turnbull and the New Smyrna Colony of Florida.

Grange, Roger and Dorothy Moore. Smyrnea Settlement: Archaeology & History of an 18th Century British Plantation in East Florida. New Smyrna Beach: Southeast Volusia Historical Society, 2016.

Griffin, John W. and Robert H. Steinbach. Old Fort Park and Turnbull Canal System Archaeological Survey Project New Smyrna Beach, Florida. St. Augustine: Historic Property Associates, 1990.

Hudson, Fannie Minson. History of New Smyrna Black Businesses (with Present Area Businesses). Self Published, 2006.

Knighton, Annie Meeks. Bethune Beach Memoirs: A Pictorial History. Self published, 2014

Luther, Gary. History of New Smyrna: East Florida with Illustrations. New Smyrna Beach: Luther’s Publishing, 2009.

Panagopoulus, Epaminondes P. New Smyrna: An 18th Century Greek Odyssey. 1966.

Poertner, Bo. Old Town By the Sea: A Pictorial History of New Smyrna Beach. Overland Park: Walsworth Publishing. 2002.

Redd, Robert. Historic Sites and Landmarks of New Smyrna Beach. Charleston: History Press, 2015.

Redd, Robert. New Smyrna Beach (Postcard History). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2016.

Sheldon, Jane Murray. “Seminole Attacks Near New Smyrna, 1835-1856.” Florida Historical Quarterly, Vol. 8 No. 4 (1930): 188-196.

Sweett, Lawrence J. New Smyrna Beach (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2006.

Sweett, Zelia V. New Smyrna Beach (Then and Now.) Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2018.

Sweett, Zelia Wilson. New Smyrna, Florida in the Civil War. DeLand: West Volusia Historical Commission, 1963.

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Oak Hill

Dewees, Mary Redding. History and Memories of Oak Hill, Florida. Self Published, 1984.

Thompson, Dana. Oak Hill (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2009.

Orange City

Our Story of Orange City, Florida. Orange City: Village Improvement Association: Orange City Woman’s Club. 2020.

Hotel OrmondVolusia County History Bibliography with links — Hotel Ormond
Courtesy Florida Memory

Ormond Beach

Griffin, John W. “The Addison Blockhouse.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 30, No. 3.

Howell, Ronald L., and Alice R. Howell. The Grand Hotel Ormond on the Halifax River, Ormond, Florida. Self Published.

Ormond Beach Historical Trust. Ormond Beach (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 1999.

Spencer, Donald. Greetings from Ormond Beach, Florida. Atglen: Schiffer Publishing, 2007.

Strickland, Alice. Ormond on the Halifax: A Centennial History of Ormond Beach, FL. Ormond Beach, Ormond Beach Historical Society, 1980.

Strickland, Alice. “James Ormond, Merchant and Soldier.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 41, No. 3.

Strickland, Alice. The Valiant Pioneers: A History of Ormond Beach, Volusia County, Florida. Ormond Beach: Ormond Beach Historical Society, 1974.

Pierson

Ponce Inlet

Henry, Ellen. A Beacon for Mosquito: The Story of the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. Ponce Inlet: Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse Preservation Association.

Henry, Ellen. The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse: An Illustrated History. Ponce Inlet: Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse Preservation Association, 2018.

Strickland, Alice. “Ponce De Leon Inlet.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 43, No. 3.

Taylor, Thomas W. The Beacon of Mosquito Inlet: A History of the Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse. Self published, 1993.

Port Orange

Cardwell, Harold D. Sr. and Priscilla D. Cardwell. Port Orange (Images of America). Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2000.

Cardwell, Harold D. Sr. and Priscilla D. Cardwell. Port Orange: A Great Community, Volume 1. Port Orange: City of Port Orange, 2001.

Samsula

Seville

Historical Museums and Societies

DeLand Naval Air Station Museum

Enterprise Preservation Society

Halifax Historical Society

Holly Hill Historic Society

Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum

New Smyrna Museum of History YouTube

Ormond Beach Historical Society

Ormond Beach Historical Society YouTube

Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and Museum

Port Orange Historical Trust

Southeast Volusia Historical Society

Veterans Museum and Education Center

West Volusia Historical Society

West Volusia Historical Society YouTube

People

Akin, Edward N. Flagler: Rockefeller Partner and Florida Baron. Kent: Kent State University Press, 1988.

Carpenter, Jack. Beyond an Architect’s Legacy: Paintings of Wm. J. Carpenter. Self Published, 2020.

Cox, Merlin G. “David Sholtz: New Deal Governor of Florida.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Vol. 42, No 2.

Howell, Alice R., and Ronald L. Howell. John Anderson: His Life and Times in Ormond, Florida. Self Published, 2011.

Howell, Alice R., and Ronald L. Howell. Ruth Law, Daytona’s Pioneer Aviator, Her Place in Aviation History. Self Published, 2010.

Johnston, Sidney. “Bert Fish: From Volusia County Courthouse to American Embassy.” Florida Historical Quarterly. Volume 78, No 4 (2000), p. 430-450.

Long, Nancy Ann Zrinyi. Mary McLeod Bethune: Her Life and Legacy. Cocoa: Florida Historical Society Press, 2019.

Lucas, Harold V. and Ashley N. Robertson. A Tree that Grew in Midway: An Autobiography of Mr. Harold V. Lucas, Jr. Self Published, 2016.

McCluskey, Audrey Thomas. “Mary McLeod Bethune’s Impact on Daytona.” Florida Historical Quarterly (October 1994).

Preston, Ashley Robertson. Mary McLeod Bethune the Pan-Africanist. Gainesville: University Press of Florida, 2023.

Robertson, Ashley N. Mary McLeod Bethune in Florida: Bringing Social Justice to the Sunshine State. Charleston: Arcadia Publishing, 2015.

Schwartz, Gerald, editor. A Woman Doctor’s Civil War: The Diary of Esther Hill Hawks. Columbia: University of South Carolina Press, 1989.

Vogle, Bob. Fighting to Win. Nashville, Turner Publishing, 2001.

Wournos, Aileen. Monster: My True Story. London: John Blake Publishing, 2004.

Websites and Blogs

DeBary Hall Historic Site

Volusia County History

Volusia History

Volusia Remembers

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. All views and opinions provided are my own and are never influenced by affiliate programs or sponsors providing products.

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Posted on March 21, 2023April 15, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Exhibit by Candace Knapp in New Smyrna Beach

Flower, wood, 24 x 14 x 10 — The sculpture Flower is in wood and measures 26 x 14 x 10 Candace Knapp exhibit in New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Make your plans to visit Arts on Douglas in downtown New Smyrna Beach between April 1 and May 27, 2023 for a new exhibit, Rites of Spring: Painting & Sculptures by Candace Knapp.

On April 1, there will be an opening reception from 4p-7p featuring live jazz music from TRio.

On Friday, May 12 at 11 a.m. there will be an artist talk you won’t want to miss.

Arts on Douglas
1213 Douglas Street
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
386-428-1133

Gallery Hours:
Tuesday through Friday 10a-5p
Saturday 10-4p
Sunday and Monday CLOSED

To learn more about Candace Knapp, I recommend visiting her website (where I have taken this biography and resume from.)

BIOGRAPHY

Candace Knapp portrait photo courtesy the Dabbert GalleryCandace Knapp exhibit New Smyrna Beach Florida — Candace Knapp, courtesy the Dabbert Gallery

My father was a toy designer, and I was encouraged to indulge my imagination. I earned a BFA in sculpture from the Cleveland Institute of Art and an MFA from the University of Illinois. I have had many teachers. I have learned about clarity from the Buddhists, fierce joy from the Sufis, magical holiness from Christian Mystics and life energy from Taoist TaiChi. The main influence in my life and work, however, is my ongoing relationship with nature, with birds, animals, insects, clouds, stars, microbes and especially trees. I have spent most of my life carving wood and feel a strong kinship with trees.

I have enjoyed traveling in Europe, Africa and Asia and lived in Sweden for a year with my husband, Bjorn. In Florida we had a company called Andren & Knapp in which we designed and produced furniture and statues for churches. We also worked together on Public Art commissions. All the pictures on this site were taken by Bjorn Andren. He is a gifted photographer.

I have done installations at the Brevard Art Museum (later named Foosner Art Museum), Florida
Museum for Women Artists, Florida Craftsmen Gallery in St Petersburg, the Morean Art Center,
and Mt Dora Center for the Arts and sometimes included composed background sounds as part
of the work. My work is in the permanent collection of the Miaoli Wood Sculpture Museum in
Sanyi, Taiwan (where I was invited to have a show in 2007) and in the Memphis Brooks
Museum of Art in Memphis TN. Lately I have been painting.

RESUME:
COLLECTIONS

Miaoli Wood Sculpture Museum, Sanyi, Taiwan ( 5 sculptures in the permanent collection)
TungHai University, TaiChung, Taiwan (“Flight of Mother Theresa”)
Tampa General Hospital (“Collected Memory”)
Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Memphis, TN, (“Tango Solo”)
The Ameriway Bank, Houston, TX, (“The Enfoldment”)
The Mobile Oil Corporation, Stockholm, Sweden, (“Three Sisters”)
The Northwood Institute.Collection, West Palm Beach, FL (“Wind in the Trees”)
HageGården Music Center, Edane, Sweden, (“Nyutsprungen”)
City of Tampa, FL (“Underwater Ballet” and “Sunlight on the Lake”)
Tampa Water Dept., Tampa, FL “The Waterbearers” (bronze fountain )
All Children’s Hospital, St Petersburg FL ( “Daydreamers” 12 mobiles for the emergency room)

PUBLIC ART COMMISSIONS

City of St. Petersburg, FL, “The Enchanted Mangrove Forest”, (Central Avenue) 1995
Hillsborough County, FL (Pavilion Floor and History Walk , Courthouse Square, downtown Tampa)
Hillsborough County, FL (“Litigation” sculpture, County Courthouse)
City of St Petersburg, FL (“The Happy Town Players” nine large sculptures at the Main Library)

EDUCATION

Master of Fine Arts Degree in Sculpture, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL, 1974,
Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Sculpture ,The Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, OH, 1971 ,
Awarded “Helen Green Perry Traveling Scholarship” , traveled through Europe and West Africa
(across the Sahara) looking at art and people.
Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, Skowhegan, Maine. Summer, 1969, Full Scholarship.

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. All views and opinions provided are my own and are
never influenced by affiliate programs or sponsors providing products.

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Posted on March 4, 2023February 18, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Frank Fanovich Major League Baseball Player New York City Police Officer: In Memory

Frank Fanovich

Frank Fanovich lived a life many boys have dreamed of. Frank Fanovich became a major league baseball player and then served as an officer with the New York City police department.

On January 11, 1923, in the Bronx, NY, Frank and Mary Fanovich welcomed the birth of their son, Frank Joseph. The eleventh was a beautiful, winter New York day with the high temperature reaching 34 degrees Fahrenheit. Overnight temperatures fell to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. No snow fell on the city that day. It was without doubt a blessed day in the Bronx.

RMS PannoniaFrank Fanovich Major League Baseball Player — RMS Pannonia

Frank, Sr. was born in Pesino, Italy on November 27, 1892. He was five feet, eight inches tall, and weighed 161 pounds. His hair was brown, he had gray eyes, and a fair complexion. He worked as a chauffeur. On August 24, 1912 he arrived at the Port of New York aboard the RMS Pannonia, set to start a new life in a new country, one full of opportunity. On March 8, 1927, married and with a young son, his Naturalization papers were submitted.

As a boy, Frank, Jr. played sandlot baseball and grew to love, and become good at, the game. Later in life he was to play professional baseball, reaching the pinnacle, the Major League, if only for a short period of time.

While it appears, Frank did not complete high school, his World War II Draft Card and his enlistment records show him working for Phelps Dodge as a skilled lineman and serviceman. Frank was a tall and lanky young man, standing six feet tall and weighing 160 pounds. He had brown hair and eyes with a ruddy complexion and a scar on his right cheek.

As a member of the “Greatest Generation,” Frank proudly served his country during World War II. He enlisted in the United States Army on November 25, 1942, in New York City as a private in the Signal Corps. His enlistment was “for the duration of the War or other emergency, plus six months, subject to the discretion of the President or otherwise according to law.” Frank provided his service stationed in England. Private Fanovich returned to the United States aboard the Queen Mary, docking in New York City on July 11, 1945.

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Shortly after arriving home, Frank, Jr. married his childhood sweetheart, Yolanda Franco, who often went by the name Gloria, on February 2, 1946, in Kingsbridge, Bronx. The happy couple were married for 65 years before Frank’s passing on August 27, 2011. Yolanda and Frank do not appear to have had any children, as none were mentioned in Franks obituary.

Shortly after exchanging their nuptials, “Lefty,” as Frank was nicknamed, was signed by the New York Giants as an amateur free agent. The young copule hitched their immediate futures to the whims of the baseball gods; i.e. managers, general managers, owners, and the talent in Frank’s left arm. He played for three different teams during the 1946 season, bouncing between the B and C minor league levels.

In 1947, Fanovich was sent/traded to the unaffiliated Watertown Athletics of the Border League; a team on the C level. Pitching in twenty-three games Fanovich compiled a 16-3 record and recorded a 2.85 earned run average. Playing in multiple positions as required, he played in a cumulative 59 games that season, In 99 at bats he legged out 32 hits for an impressive .323 batting average. Fanovich showed no power as a hitter with only three extra base hits, all doubles.

Frank Fanovich major league baseball player and later an officer with the New York City police department — Frank Fanovich major league baseball player with the Cincinnati Reds organization. Photo courtesy Baseball Reference

The Cincinnati Reds saw something they liked in the young pitcher and purchased his contract from Watertown, assigning him in 1948 to their AAA affiliate in Syracuse. For the Chiefs, he produced mixed results, compiling a 9-13 win/loss record for a team with an overall record of 77-73. While Fanovich struck out 120 batters, he struggled with control, walking 110. In a different era of baseball, the young pitcher threw thirteen complete games. With the stronger level of pitching, Franks batting numbers plunged. He hit only .219 in 64 at bats.

Things were looking up for the twenty-six-year-old pitcher as the 1949 season began. He made the roster for the Cincinnati Reds pitching out of the bullpen. He had been a starter during his minor league career but a chance in the majors was too good to overlook.

The season was not what the Reds and Fanovich might have hoped. Fanovich appeared in 29 games, compiling an 0-2 record with no saves, and a 5.40 earned run average. In only 43 innings pitched he logged 27 strikeouts and 28 base on balls. In his defense, the 1949 Reds were a poor team, finishing the season with a dismal 62-92-2 record. Fan support is what might be imagined for a team with a record like this. They finished with the lowest home attendance in the National League at just under 708,000 at Crosley Field.

With a not so grand start to his Major League career, Fanovich found himself back in the minors for the 1950 season, playing for the New York Giants AAA team, the Minneapolis Millers. Despite Fanovich providing an underwhelming 7-12 record, the Millers finished a league best 90-64. An amazing 24 players from the team spent some time in the Majors including Baseball Hall of Fame member Hoyt Wilhelm who led the team with fifteen wins.

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Frank Fanovich major league baseball player and New York City police officer — Frank Fanovich major league baseball player courtesy Findagrave

Fanovich led a journeyman’s lifestyle for the next couple of years, bouncing around the minors, playing for four different teams before landing back in the Majors in 1953 with the Philadelphia Athletics. For Fanovich the results were much the same as in 1949. In his first game pitching for the A’s, he faced three batters, walking all of them. Pitching in only 26 games he compiled an 0-3 record and an earned run average of 5.55. His control had still not come around, issuing 37 bases on balls to go with only 37 strikeouts. The Athletics were to remain in Philadelphia for only one more season before moving to Kansas City.

The final two years of Frank Fanovich’s baseball career were spent in Richmond and San Antonio in the minor leagues. His stint in San Antonio at the AA level may have been the best of his career. He put up a 14-11 record, a 3.47 earned run average, while striking out 118 and walking only 97. His 210 innings pitched were a career high. He pitched eleven complete games including four shutouts. At age 32 it was a great way to leave the game that he had given so much to.

Fanovich posted a career MLB record of zero wins and five losses in 55 career games. His earned run average was 5.49. Fanovich was to fare better in the minors, compiling a 73-74 career win/loss record including 52 complete games. As might be expected, some minor league statistics from the period are incomplete or unavailable so it is not possible to make a full assessment of his success.

After retiring from baseball, Fanovich went on to a successful career with the New York City Police Department, eventually joining the Manhattan North Narcotics Division. He would work for NYPD for 27 years before he and Yolanda would retire to New Smyrna Beach in 1987.

In his retirement years, Frank enjoyed a good game of golf, often on the Hidden Lakes course near where he and Yolanda lived. He also retained his love of baseball, keeping up with his beloved New York Yankees.

After having led a full life, Fanovich passed away on August 27, 2011 at the age of 88. His remains are interred at Sea Pines Memorial Gardens in Edgewater, FL, in the All-Faiths Mausoleum.

Frank Fanovich was a major league baseball player and later officer with the New York City police department. Frank and his wife Yolanda are interred at Sea Pines Cemetery in Edgewater, FL in the All Faiths Mausoleum. — Frank & Yolanda Fanovich are interred in the All Faiths Mausoleum at Sea Pines Memorial Gardens in Edgewater, FL

An online memorial to Frank Fanovich may be found HERE. A memorial for Yolanda Fanovich may be found HERE.

Frank Fanovich was as major league baseball player and New York City police officer, living the dream of millions of boys and young men.

To read the stories of other Major League Baseball players associated with Volusia County, click HERE.

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. All views and opinions provided are my own and are never influenced by affiliate programs or sponsors providing products.

Posted on February 28, 2023March 6, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Great Floridians 2000 William Amory Underhill DeLand, FL

Great Floridians 2000

Individuals were recognized by the Great Floridians 2000 program who distinguished themselves through their philanthropy,
public service or personal or professional service, and who have
enhanced the lives of Florida’s citizens.

Anyone could nominate an individual to be designated a Great Floridian
2000 by submitting a Great Floridians 2000 application. The appointed Great
Floridians 2000 Committee, a group of seven distinguished historians
from throughout Florida, periodically reviewed applications.

The program, begun in 1998, was completed in 2000.

The distinctive blue plaques honoring the men and women in the
program are attached to buildings or structures in the cities where the
designee left their mark. The plaques do not contain biographical information.

William Amory Underhill

William Amory Underhill was born in 1910, received his law degree
from Stetson University and served from 1940 to 1942 as a Volusia
County prosecuting attorney. During World War II, he was a special
attorney for the U.S. Justice Department in Washington. He was an
Assistant U.S. Attorney General during the administration of President
Harry Truman and a special Washington counsel to the Florida
Comptroller. He was a Stetson University Trustee from 1977 to 1986
and a member of the College of Law Board of Overseers from more than
20 years. He was a member of the Bert Fish Foundation and treasurer of
Florida House, the first state house in the nation’s capital. He was the
founding president and a life member of the DeLand Jaycees and a life
member of the DeLand Area Chamber of Commerce.

William Amory Underhill died in 1999.

Underhill’s Great Floridians plaque is located at the Volusia County Historic
Courthouse, 120 W. Indiana Avenue, DeLand.

A brief biographical summary of Underhill’s career can be found HERE.

An online memorial for William Amory Underhill may be found HERE.

As mentioned, Underhill served as a member of the Bert Fish
Foundation. You may find the Bert Fish Great Floridians 2000 post HERE.

The remains of WIlliam Amory Underhill are interred in the Mausoleum at Oakdale Cemetery. — The remains of William Amory Underhill are interred in the Mausoleum at Oakdale Cemetery.

To read all my Great Floridians 2000 posts click HERE.

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Get this incredibly haunting image of the Volusia County Historic Courthouse, shrouded with fog, in puzzle form. Order your 252 or 520 piece jigsaw puzzle HERE.

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A haunting image of the Volusia County Historic Courthouse in DeLand, FL — Fog shrouds the Volusia County Historic Courthouse in downtown DeLand, FL

Posted on February 10, 2023March 8, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Great Floridians 2000 John Anderson Ormond Beach

Great Floridians 2000

The Great Floridians 2000 program was designed to recognize individuals who distinguished themselves through their philanthropy, public service or personal or professional service, and who have enhanced the lives of Florida’s citizens. John Anderson, of Ormond Beach, is included in this group of important contributors to Florida history.

Anyone could nominate an individual to be designated a Great Floridians 2000 by submitting a Great Floridians 2000 application. These applications were periodically reviewed by the appointed Great Floridians 2000 Committee, a group of seven distinguished historians from throughout Florida.

The program, begun in 1998, was completed in 2000.

The distinctive blue plaques honoring the men and women in the program are attached to buildings or structures in the cities where the designee left their mark. No biographical information is included on the plaques.

John Anderson

Born in Portland, Maine on August 6, 1853, to parents Samuel J. and Jane W. Anderson, John Anderson is considered Ormond Beach’s greatest promoter. He came to the city, then called New Britain, in 1876 from New York City. From 1876 to 1878 and 1881 to 1882 he was the Volusia County Tax Assessor. He built the Santa Lucia Plantation and, in 1888, the Hotel Ormond. Anderson also built Volusia County’s first golf course. His friendship with James Ormond III led to the proposal to name the community after the Ormond family, rather than to use the name New Britain. In 1902, along with Joseph Price, he organized the first auto-racing tournament on the beach. He later promoted a professional baseball team in Ormond Beach. John Anderson died February 17, 1911. An online memorial for Anderson may be found HERE.

The John Anderson Great Floridians 2000 marker as displayed at the Hotel Ormond Cupola

His Great Floridian plaque is located at the Hotel Ormond Cupola, Fortunato Park, 2 John Anderson Drive, Ormond Beach.

To learn more about the history of Ormond Beach, please visit the Ormond Beach Historical Society.

The John Anderson Papers, which focus on the development of the Hotel Ormond, are available at the George A. Smathers Libraries at the University of Florida.

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. All views and opinions provided are my own and are never influenced by affiliate programs or sponsors providing products.

The only biography of John Anderson that I am aware of has been written by Ormond Beach transplant Ronald Howell. You may order a copy of John Anderson: His Life and Times in Ormond, Florida through Amazon by clicking the link or the photo.

Posted on January 27, 2023March 17, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

In Memory: Officer Thomas M. Coulter Daytona Beach Police Department

Thomas M. Coulter

In Memory Officer Thomas Coulter of the Daytona Beach Police Department. Having only graduated from the police academy at Daytona State College in 2017, Thomas M. Coulter was beginning to live out his dream of being a police officer when hired by the Daytona Beach Police Department in 2018.

Thomas M. Coulter was born January 29, 1993 in New Jersey to parents Ann and Michael Coulter. He later earned his high school diploma and A.A. degree in 2011, finishing early with the assistance of dual enrollment credits. Later, he attend would attend the University of Central Florida.

Coulter began his recruit training on May 14, 2018 after passing a preemployment physical with the Daytona Beach Police Department. On the morning of Friday, May 18, Coulter, along with twenty-three other recruits and three trainers, were participating in what police chief Craig Capri said was a team building exercise. This was was jogging and walking exercise that included stops for pushups and stretching. The group was moving at the speed of the slowest participant.

Around 8:00 a.m. Coulter collapsed during training. Doctors at Halifax Health Medical Center initially believed the young officer would recover. His condition began to decline on Saturday the 19th and he passed away at 4:30 a.m. on Monday, May 21. Autopsy reports would in fact later show the Coulter died of a heart attack.

Fellow recruits were allowed that Monday off training before being required to return on Tuesday morning. DBPD provided counseling for those in need.

According to Chief Capri, Coulter had made neither a complaint of discomfort nor did he complain of feeling ill before collapsing and as noted prior, had passed the required physical. Capri stated that Coulter was in “average shape” for a 25 year old.

The local newspaper quoted Chief Capri, “This young man, all he wanted to do was be a police officer. Talking with the family he wanted to be a police officer. That was his life’s dream, since he was a little kid. That was his goal and he did meet his goal.”

The News-Journal Center in downtown Daytona Beach was the site of Coulter’s memorial service. Law enforcement officers from numerous agencies along with then Florida governor Rick Scott attended the memorial service. Capri stated, “I’m just very proud of the community, the support of the community. And we had police officers from all over.”

Thomas Coulter left behind a wife of only six months, Jazmin, his parents, a brother, Mikey, and sisters Sandy and Bridgette, along with extended family members.

Officer Coulter is buried at Daytona Memorial Pak in the Hero’s Garden of Glory section. His marker includes the words, Have a Great Day Officer Coulter.

Officer Coulter is memorialized on the Law Enforcement Memorial Volusia and Flagler Counties located adjacent to the Historic Courthouse in DeLand, FL.

An online memorial for Officer Coulter may be found HERE.

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Posted on November 26, 2022February 18, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Play Golf in Volusia County Florida on Your Vacation

Where to Plan your Golf Vacation in Volusia County, Florida

Are you planning your vacation to Volusia County? Maybe you will be visiting for one of the NASCAR races or motorcycle event. You or your children might be attending a convention at the Ocean Center. Perhaps you or a family member attend Stetson University or Bethune Cookman University. Maybe you are looking for the opportunity to drive on the “World’s Most Famous Beach.” Find the best spot for your game and make time to play golf in Volusia County, Florida.

Whatever your reason for being in Volusia County we welcome you. Now, what do you do if you are a golfer. If you have a few hours there are multiple options available for you to consider so be sure to pack your clubs!

Below is a listing of golf courses located in Volusia County. I have chosen to make this list alphabetical by city and then by course. Here you’ll find an address, website information, and a brief bit on the course/s.

This list should help you find the right course and help you get the most out of your golf game in Volusia County.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Golf Club North 600 Wilder Boulevard https://www.daytonabeachgc.com/

The North course was designed be Slim Deathridge in 1946. Mr. Deathridge served as Head Professional at the time. The course was rebuilt in 1997. This is a par 72 course with the longest tees being 6,413 yards. This is considered to be the tougher of the two Daytona Beach Golf Club courses.

Book your tee time online, take advantage of the putting green and driving range, sign up for individual instruction, or shop at the pro shop for all your golfing needs or for club repair. Grab a meal at the Sand Trap Bar and Grill.

Daytona Beach Golf Club South 600 Wilder Boulevard https://www.daytonabeachgc.com/

The South course was designed by Donald Ross and measures in at 6,229 yards with a par of 71.

Donald Ross Courses Everyone Can Play — Donald Ross Golf Courses Everyone Can Play

Ever wonder what it would be like to play the same golf courses as celebrities such as Tiger Woods, Gary Player, Mark O’Meara, and even Babe Ruth? A celebrity in his own right, Donald Ross created many of the best golf courses ever designed. Here is the definitive collection of golf courses in the United States created by Ross, the most prolific and renowned golf course designer of all time. Paul and B. J. Dunn have collected all the information you need in order to find and play the more than one-hundred public, semi-private, and resort golf courses in the United States, all designed by Ross.

Get your own copy of this beautiful book HERE!

LPGA Hills Course Hole 8, one of the premier locations to play golf in Volusia County, Florida. — The Eighth hole on the LPGA Hills course

LPGA International Hills Course 1000 Champions Drive https://lpgainternational.com/

Playing just under 7,000 yards, the Arthur Hills designed course is a par 72 that has been rated 4 stars by Golf Digest. Hills designed this course around nature. As such it features wetlands, pine trees, and water hazards.

Memberships are available at multiple levels. Practice with ten target pins or on the six putting greens, several with sand bunkers allowing for additional practice opportunities. Book your tee time online and enjoy a delicious meal at Malcolm’s Bar and Grill.

LPGA International Jones Course 1000 Champions Drive https://lpgainternational.com/

The Rees Jones designed course is considered a favorite among touring professionals. This 7,100-yard, par 72 course is challenging enough to have earned a 4 star distinction from Golf Digest who also named it number six in its 2010 listing of top 50 American courses for women.

Pelican Bay Golf Club 350 Pelican Bay Drive https://golfatpelicanbay.com/

Bill Amick designed this 6,800-yard, par 72 course. This course has served as host to two Senior PGA Tour events.

Book tee times online. The practice facility includes target greens, a pitching complex, a practice bunker, driving range and two putting/chipping greens. After a round of golf enjoy lunch at The Pub.

Daytona Beach Shores

Oceans Golf Club 2 Oceans West Boulevard http://www.oceansgolfclub.com/

This public course is a 13-hole, par 3 course that measures about 1,150 yards. This might be an option if you are pressed for time.

This is a walking course only. Club and bag rental are available.

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DeBary

DeBary Golf & Country Club 300 Plantation Club Drive https://www.debarycc.com/

This semi–private course has been rated 4 stars by Golf Digest. At almost 6,800 yards at its longest, this par 72 features water on the 9th and 18th holes. The course is a past US Open qualifying site.

Book your tee time online or sign up for private instructions. A restaurant with an extensive menu is available. You can make restaurant reservations online if you wish.

DeLand

Victoria Hills Golf Club 300 Spalding Way http://www.victoriahillsgolf.com/

This 7,150-yard course was designed by Ron Garl is located on over 200 acres. The course features both water and sand hazards. Golfweek has called this course among Florida’s top 15 public courses.

Book your tee time online or over the phone. Lessons and personalized instruction are available. Do you have a big event coming up? Consider hosting it onsite. Multiple locations with scenic views are available. Be sure to grab a bite to eat at the Sparrow’s Grille Restaurant.

Deltona

The Deltona Club 1120 Elkcam Boulevard https://thedeltonaclub.com/

Reserve your tee time online. Golf lessons are available from club pros. After your round drop into the Deltona Club Café for a meal.

New Smyrna Beach

Hidden Lakes Golf Club 35 Fairgreen Avenue http://www.hiddenlakesgolfclub.com/

Playing at almost 5,900 yards at its longest, this par 69 is a favorite of the many snowbirds who arrive each winter in New Smyrna Beach. Despite the somewhat short distance the course features three, par five holes.

Book your tee time online, lessons are available for golfers of all ages and abilities, and when you are finished stop in to the 19th Hole Restaurant for a full assortment of foods that will leave you satisfied.

Play golf in Volusia County at the New Smyrna Golf Club. — Play golf in Volusia County at the New Smyrna Golf Club

New Smyrna Golf Club 1000 Wayne Avenue http://newsmyrnagolfclub.com/

This public course was designed by Donald Ross and opened to the public in 1953. The course was renovated in 2016. This is a par 72 course with a distance of slightly over 6,500 yards. Reasonable rates and large numbers of snowbirds make early tee times difficult during the winter months. Be sure to grab lunch and a beer at Tiano’s.

Book your tee time online (this course gets very busy in the winter) and be sure to stop in to the pro shop for all your equipment needs. Amenities include a driving range, putting green, practice bunker, chipping green, and professional lessons. Stop in at Tianos for delicious Italian themed food after your round.

Are you in New Smyrna Beach and looking for pizza? Tiano’s is a great option. Take a look at my NSB pizza recommendations and find the perfect dinner for your family! You won’t find any of the big chains on this list. Be sure to support your local restaurant owner.

The Preserve at Turnbull Bay 2600 Turnbull Estates Drive https://www.thepreserveatturnbull.com/

This 6,600-yard, par 72 course, designed by Gary Wintz, runs through the Turnbull Bay nature preserve. Water is to be found throughout the course.

Book your tee time online for this beautiful course. Stop in to the Pro Shop for all your last minute needs: clothes, balls, bags, shoes, gloves, and any other golf supply you can think of. The club features a snack bar with a basic lineup of quick foods. Beer and wine are available.

Play golf in Volusia County at Venetian Bay Golf Course in New Smyrna Beach. — Venetian Bay, one of the premier places to play golf in Volusia County, FL.

Venetian Bay 63 North Airport Road https://venetianbaygolf.com/

Designed by CEC Design, Venetian Bay, considered by many the premiere course in New Smyrna Beach, Venetian Bay measures almost 7,100 yards from the back tees and shoots a par 72. You start right out of the gate with an incredible 500+ yard par 5.

Book your tee time online then show up to the well stocked Pro Shop. Here you will find all the top names in golf equipment and apparel. They can even regrip your clubs for you. Private lessons are available at varying price points. Dining is available in the Champions Grille Restaurant. Members have access to the swim club and other amenities.

Ormond Beach

Halifax Plantation Golf Club 3400 Clubhouse Drive https://www.halifaxplantationgc.com/

This Bill Amick designed course plays at 7,100 yards at its longest with a par of 72. The course is noted for its picturesque views and rolling terrain. New grass in 2021 has increased the quality of play.

Reserve your tee time online. A PGA certified instructor is on staff to help you improve your game with private lessons. The Tavern Restaurant offers golfers and excellent meal option. The restaurant has varied hours by day.

Riviera Country Club 500 Calle Grande Street https://www.rivcc.com/

Expanded to 18-holes in 1954, this course has been updated several times by golf architects including Mark Mahana, Dave Wallace, and Lloyd Clifton. The course measures 6,250 yards and is a par 71. This family owned course is part of the Florida Historic Golf Trail.

Call to reserve your tee time. Once there, get a bucket of range balls and warm up on the driving range. Most greens fees include cart rental. Stop in at the Pro Shop for all your golfing needs from top manufacturers. Breakfast and lunch year round, and it appears there is a dinner buffet during the winter months.

Port Orange

Crane Lakes Golf & Country Club 1850 Crane Lakes Boulevard https://www.cranelakesgolf.com/

This is a semi-private 18-hole course designed to challenge any skill level. Rates depend upon season and time of day. Par 66 course that measures 5,186 yards from the furthest tees.

Reserve a tee time online then head over to the Golf Shop for any items you may need for your bag: clubs, balls, gloves, you name it. Practice facilities include a driving range, chipping green, and a putting green. Crane’s Roost Bar & Grill offer golfers a place to rest and unwind after playing 18.

Cypress Head Golf Club 6231 Palm Vista Street https://www.cypressheadgolf.com/

Designed by architects Arthur Hills and Mike Dasher in 1992 this is a public course owned by the City of Port Orange. This course measures in at just under 6,800 yards from the longest tees with a par of 72.

Book your tee time online. Improve your game by signing up for one of the many clinics offered onsite. After shooting 18, finish your day at Flagsticks at Cypress Head.

Spruce Creek Country Club 1900 Country Club Drive https://www.sprucecreekclub.com/

This semi-private course was designed by Bill Amick. The back tees are slightly over 6,800 yards with a par of 72. You may encounter arriving or departing planes as the course is adjacent to the fly-in. Trees and water hazards highlight the course.

Reserve your tee time online. Call to reserve you table at the Prop n’ Fore Bar and Grille with salads, sandwiches, and full entrees. After playing and eating, you may want to look into a membership which is available at different levels and perks.

Thank you for reading my round up of golf courses in Volusia County. Now you should be able to find the best course to match your skills and be ready to play golf in Volusia County during your next vacation.

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. All views and opinions provided are my own and are never influenced by affiliate programs or sponsors providing products.

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Posted on November 20, 2022April 15, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Daytona Cubs Intern Ejected Over “Three Blind Mice”

Every professional baseball player is going to have a run in with an umpire at some point. Umpires are human and are going to make bad calls. Calling balls and strikes at 95+ miles per hour is subjective no matter what the official baseball rule book might say. Bang-bang plays at a base can be just as difficult as an umpire may be partially shielded and at times, they just make a bad call. Modern replay and the challenge system are helping to lessen the impact of these calls but in years past, player or manager confrontations with umpires were more commonplace. In 2012, a sensitive umpire ejected a Daytona Cubs intern for playing the song Three Blind Mice.

Usually not a lot comes of it. The player may argue for a bit while walking away. When a call appears to be particularly egregious the manager may come bolting out of the dugout. Usually, he already knows he is going to get tossed but these actions are not meant to change calls but to support and fire up his team and their fans.

Some managers have been known for their tantrums. Bobby Cox holds the all-time record for most ejections with a whopping 162, equal to the number of games played in a complete season. Others well known for arguing calls and being ejected are Tony La Russa, Lou Pinella, and Bruce Bochy.

You can review career ejection numbers on this page.

Watch as Pirates manager Lloyd McClendon gets ejected in this classic clip.

For players, coaches, and umpires, life in the minor leagues can be a drag with long bus rides, low pay, and the reality that very few of them will ever make it to the majors. Umpires have an approximately three percent chance of making it to the “show.” It’s a dream though that dozens chase every year. In fact, Daytona Beach is home to one of the most famous umpiring schools; the Wendelstedt Umpire School.

Want to know more about what it is like to be a Major League umpire? Read **Called Out but Safe: A Baseball Umpire’s Journey.**

For fans, these minor league games can be quite entertaining. Teams run fun promotions, there’s a chance to see legitimate major leaguers on a rehab assignment, and prices are usually very reasonable, especially in comparison to major league prices.

Late Innings August 1, 2012

Fans at Jackie Robinson Ballpark were treated to some unexpected entertainment on August 1, 2012. That night during a close game between the home team Daytona Cubs and visiting Fort Myers Miracle in a Florida State League game, fans witnessed an ejection that could not have been predicted.

To learn more about historic Jackie Robinson Ballpark, click HERE.

With the game hanging in the balance during the top of the eighth inning, Miracle batter Andy Leer grounded a pitch to Cubs shortstop Tim Saunders, who threw low to first base. Field umpire Ramon Hernandez ruled that first baseman Taylor Davis bobbled the throw and called Leer safe.

Brian Harper was the Daytona Cubs manager when an intern was ejected for playing Three Blind Mice — Brian Harper of the Chicago Cubs poses during Photo Day on Monday, February 27, 2012 at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Ron Vesely/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Daytona Beach Cubs manager, and former major leaguer, Brian Harper came out to argue the call with Hernandez while home plate umpire Mario Seneca stood by taking stock of the situation.

The Daytona Cubs Intern is Ejected

Seated in the press box was twenty-one-year-old intern Derek Dye, who attempted to poke some home-team humor at the umpires and over the public address system played the children’s song “Three Blind Mice.”

Seneca was in no mood for humor and turned to the press box, picked out the culprit, and yelled out, “You’re gone,” motioning the ejection. Seneca took his ire even further, silencing the sound system for the remainder of the game. That’s right. No announcing of batters, no music, no between innings sound system. Nothing but silence.

At first there was a bit of confusion. Those in the press box through that Harper had been ejected despite not vociferously arguing. They quickly realized it was University of Illinois senior, intern, Dye that had been given the boot.

The small crowd of less than 1,000 reacted as would be expected, showering the umpiring crew (all two of them) with boos. Cubs staff was quick to improvise however and a staffer in the grandstand took to shouting the names of each batter in turn. The tired crowd played along clapping and stomping their feet, showing support for their beloved Cubs.

When the final batter struck out in the top of the ninth inning, the Cubs were 2-1 winners over the Miracle and fans left Jackie Robinson Ballpark with a story that almost had to be seen to be believed. Want to see it? Watch below!

The Cubs and Miracle took to the field the next evening with the same umpiring crew. Intern Derek Dye was not in the press box however. Feeling lighter in the wallet thanks to a $25 fine from the Florida State League, Dye was handing out wristbands, helping identify fans as being 21 years or older in order to participate in the “Thirsty Thursday” promotion that evening.

Dye, and some fans in attendance, questioned the authority of Seneca to eject a non-participant in the game. Dye was quoted afterward, “I couldn’t believe it. I didn’t think the umpire had that sort of jurisdiction. I haven’t seen the flow chart of who has what power.”

While Dye may have questioned Seneca’s judgement, it appears that the umpire was well within his authority, and was not the first to do such. In an article in Bleacher Report they cited three rules Seneca invoked.

Paraphrased:

Rule 4.06(a)—participants should not incite or try to incite a demonstration by spectators

Rule 9.01 (b)—umpires have the duty to order a player, and others, to do or refrain from doing anything that impacts the administration of these rules and to enforce penalties

Rule 9.01(c)—umpires have authority to rule on any point not specifically covered in these rules

So, while Seneca may have seemed thin-skinned and quick on the trigger, Dye’s actions were considered worthy of ejection by the league who handed down the token fine. For Dye, he received an immediate, if short lived, burst of fame. It was reported that interview requests were submitted by ESPN and the “Good Morning America” show and the young intern signed several autographs for knowing fans.

Neither Mario Seneca or Ramon Hernandez was able to beat the odds. Neither umpired in the major leagues. Their having ejected Daytona Cubs intern Derek Dye for a game is the reason they are remembered in baseball today.

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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. All views and opinions provided are my own and are never influenced by affiliate programs or sponsors providing products.

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Posted on October 24, 2022March 24, 2024 by Robert — Leave a comment

Ormond Indian Burial Mound Historic Marker

Ormond Indian Burial Mound

In May 1982, when Dixon H. Reeves, and his wife Harriett, paid contractors to break ground on a house site at the corner of south Beach Street and Mound Avenue in Ormond Beach, they did not fully comprehend the damage they were going to do to an irreplaceable cultural artifact. In fact, once the city manager issued a stop work order, the Reeves sued the city for damages. The property ownership reverted to Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Barron, who the Reeves purchased the property from, and the Reeves eventually received a $4,000 settlement from the city.

Where the Reeves wish to build their home was the site of a Timucuan Burial Mound. Timucuan society did not bury the dead. Instead the Timucuans placed bodies on top of the ground and piled dirt on top. In some instances, the flesh was allowed to decay, and the bones were bundled and placed at the mound site. Items owned by the deceased were broken and included in the interment.

Despite the mound having received considerable damage through the years, including digging by “pot hunters” and construction of adjacent roadways, archaeologists believe as many as 125 Timucuans had been buried on the site. For anybody caught digging on this, or similar sites, you will more likely than not be charged with a third-degree felony. See this link for additional information.

With a lack of consensus among city leaders, a fund was started to help purchase and preserve this sacred site. The Barron’s agreed to sell the property to the city for $55,000. Despite confirmation on the importance of the site from professional anthropologists and archaeologists, it took an anonymous donation of $30,000, along with the fundraising drive, to help secure the sale as shortsighted elected city officials balked at the price and potential ongoing costs.

Today, the City of Ormond Beach owns this site and is a park in a residential area. Visitors can see the mound from all sides, surrounded by roads and houses. Parking is available across the street at Ames Park so please do not park on park lands or in the yards or drives of nearby property owners. Please do not climb on the mound as it is a fragile archaeological site.

Sign Text

Prehistoric people of this area constructed the Ormond Burial Mound sometime after A.D. 800. The skeletal remains of more than 125 early native (sic) Americans are buried in this sand burial mound. Interring bodies in earthen mounds was a common burial practice in the late pre-historic period. The bones of most of the deceased were “bundled” and buried during special ceremonies. As more bodies were buried and covered with layers of sand, the mound grew over time. The Mound is preserved as one of the finest and most intact burial mounds in Florida through the efforts of the community that worked to save this site in 1982.

City of Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach Historical Trust

The City of Ormond Beach placed this marker and is not a part of the Florida Department of State marker program.

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If you wish to learn more about Timucuan culture there is an excellent book I can recommend.

Perhaps the definitive book on the subject is written by Dr. Jerald Milanich, The Timucua.

This is the story of the Timucua, an American Indian people who thrived for centuries in the southeast portion of what is now the United States of America.

Timucua groups lived in Northern Florida and Southern Georgia, a region occupied by native people for thirteen millennia. They were among the first of the American Indians to come in contact with Europeans, when the Spaniard Juan Ponce de Leon landed on the Florida coast in 1513. Thousands of archaeological sites, village middens and sand and shell mounds still dot the landscape, offering mute testimony to the former presence of the Timucua and their ancestors.

Two hundred and fifty years after Ponce de Leon’s voyage the Timucua had disappeared, extinguished by the ravages of colonialism. Who were the Timucua? Where did they come from? How did they live? What caused their extinction? These are questions this book attempts to answer, using information gathered from archaeological excavations and from the interpretation of historical documents left behind by the European powers, mainly Spain and France, who sought to colonize Florida and to place the Timucua under their sway.

I also recommend taking a look at this page from the National Park Service.

Timucua Mode of Drying Fish, Wild Animals, and other Provisions Courtesy Florida Memory — Bry, Theodor de, 1528-1598. XXIV. Mode of Drying Fish, Wild Animals, and other Provisions. 1591. State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory. Accessed 22 October 2022.

The State Library and Archives of Florida (Florida Memory), has an excellent page of Theodor de Bry’s Engravings of the Timucua. These incredible works of art date from before the year 1600. The 42 pieces are all available for viewing and low resolution copies are available for download. A sample de Bry image is seen at the left.

Sources:

Daytona Beach News Journal

Florida Master Site File VO00240

Ormond Beach Historical Trust, Inc. “The Story of the Timucua Indian Burial Mound in Ormond Beach, Florida.” Pamphlet published April 2000.

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Volusia County History A Bibliography with Links

General County Histories

Barberville

Cassadaga

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Shores

DeBary

DeLand

DeLeon Springs

Deltona

Edgewater

Enterprise

Holly Hill

Lake Helen

New Smyrna Beach

Oak Hill

Orange City

Ormond Beach

Pierson

Ponce Inlet

Port Orange

Samsula

Seville

Historical Museums and Societies

People

Websites and Blogs

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BIOGRAPHY

RESUME: COLLECTIONS

PUBLIC ART COMMISSIONS

EDUCATION

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Frank Fanovich

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Great Floridians 2000

William Amory Underhill

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Get this incredibly haunting image of the Volusia County Historic Courthouse, shrouded with fog, in puzzle form. Order your 252 or 520 piece jigsaw puzzle HERE.

Great Floridians 2000

John Anderson

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Thomas M. Coulter

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Where to Plan your Golf Vacation in Volusia County, Florida

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Shores

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DeBary

DeLand

Deltona

New Smyrna Beach

Ormond Beach

Port Orange

Thank you for reading my round up of golf courses in Volusia County. Now you should be able to find the best course to match your skills and be ready to play golf in Volusia County during your next vacation.

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Late Innings August 1, 2012

The Daytona Cubs Intern is Ejected

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