Today in Keys History – October 7, 2024
- Keys History Center
- Oct 6, 2024
- 2 min read
1862 – The yellow fever epidemic that began in August was running its course but still five members of the 90th New York Regiment at Key West, six men at the Marine Hospital Key West and four men at Fort Jefferson would die of the disease during the month.
1914 – The telephone cable between the Key West and Sand Key weather stations was broken by ships’ anchors being dropped on it. Until it could be repaired, the only means of communication between the stations was by flash signals at night.
1968 – A visitation committee from the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges began a three-day examination of the Florida Keys Junior College to assess its eligibility to become an accredited member of the Association.
1974 – The Key West City Commission passed an ordinance requiring “every person employed in any night club, any place handling liquor, beer, or wine, places of amusement, dancing schools or studios, motels, hotels, or rooming houses, delivery services, and restaurants” to be fingerprinted, photographed, and registered with the city.
1986 – The Key West City Commission changed the name of Old Island Restoration Commission (OIRC) to the Historic Architectural Review Commission (HARC). The change was requested by the Old Island Restoration Foundation because of confusion over the similar names and some controversial decisions made by OIRC.
2004 – World-renowned folk artist Mario Sanchez celebrated his 96th birthday in Key West with friends.
Information compiled by Dr. Corey Malcom, Lead Historian, Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.
Image: Florida Keys Junior College founding marker 1968. Photo by Don Pinder. Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.