1915 – The 52nd anniversary of emancipation was observed by Key West residents, under the auspices of the Emancipation Committee, James N. English, president. A parade of floats, schoolchildren carrying American flags, and members of the Grand Army of the Republic, went through the streets. The procession concluded at Samaritan Hall on Whitehead Street, for a program of speeches and song.
1921 – The Casa Marina Hotel, manager L.P. Schutt, was formally opened for its first season which would run until April 1st.
1925 – For the second year, a seasonal visitor information bureau was opened at the Key West railroad terminal to tell Havana-bound passengers of the island’s attractions. It was effective, with some tourists opting to spend a few days in Key West after learning what the place had to offer.
1954 – The first Florida Keys baby of 1954, Mark Lawrence Miller, was born at 12:01 a.m. at the clinic of Dr. Aubrey Hamilton, 622 Eaton Street. Proud parents were Marilyn and Harvey Miller of Big Pine Key.
1969 – Charles W. Aguero and Raymond Wells were out fishing when a cold front crossed the Keys. They failed to return, and no trace was found of them or their boat.
1975 – A tourist visiting Key West was shot in the head by a .45-caliber slug that fell from the sky after being fired by an unknown New Year’s reveler. The bullet hit the top of the young woman’s head and lodged near her spinal cord. Doctors said it was “pure luck” she was not killed or paralyzed.
2010 – Monroe County’s gasoline tax increased by four cents to 13 cents per gallon. The increase was expected to generate over $1 million annually for the repair of county-owned bridges and roads.
Information compiled by Dr. Corey Malcom, Lead Historian, Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.
Image: Florida East Coast Railway Extension, Key West Terminal, 1935. Caption: "Havana Special discharges its passengers from North. A marimba band always plays." Gift of Pat Parks. Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.