1909 – Leo DeVera of Key West was killed while hunting at the east end of the island. The 17-year-old was creeping up on a flock of birds when he fell, causing his gun to discharge into his abdomen.
1944 – Three days after a disputed election, the Monroe County Board of Canvassers declared that Willard M. Albury had been elected Superintendent Public of Instruction.
1950 – Residents of Monroe County overwhelmingly voted for an Anti-Mosquito District. The vote was 1,781 to 170 for the special tax.
1974 – A group of Duval Street merchants called the “Action 76 Committee” announced plans to beautify and relight Duval Street for the coming 1976 Bicentennial celebrations. Initial ideas included a narrow median planted with trees, shade trees along the sidewalks, and underground lighting.
1978 – George Dolezal was elected to the Monroe County Commission, the first Republican elected to a county office in 90 years.
1989 – Captain Tony Tarracino was elected Mayor of Key West and Sally Lewis was re-elected to the City Commission.
Information compiled by Dr. Corey Malcom, Lead Historian, Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.
Image: The 500 block of Duval Street on December 8, 1974. DeWolfe and Wood Collection. Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.