$4.95

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LONGBOAT Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow

Including St. Armands & Lido

First Edition

Lindsay Curtis Publishing Company Sarasota, Florida

YESTERDAY

Key Was A Vacation Spot To Prehlstoric Indians

So much of Longboat Key's population and archi­tecture is so recent, that there is a notion civiliza­tion on the Key is a 20th-century item. In actuality, there was a people here, probably several thousand years ago: an Indian society which left behind no written, pictorial or architectural history, and whose Spanish-given names cannot even be found in most dictionaries today.

Except for extinct prehistoric creatures, these Indians were the first to inhabit and enjoy the luxury of life on Longboat Key. Their remains, for the most part, have been lost, ground away or under, by time and the 20th-century development of the Sarasota and Bradenton areas . What pieces of their life here that have been saved - privately and in museums across the country - paint a pic­ture which is open to much question and verifica­tion.

What is known is that the earliest Indians of Florida and Longboat Key vanished from the face of the earth, sometime between 1600 and the mid-1800s. European explorers brought with them

disease, weapons and fierce dogs , a desire for the gold which had been rumored and a zeal to Christianize others . The first Longboaters just did not survive.

Tbe Alaska ConnecUon As recently as 1946, in his authoritative book

"The Story of Sarasota," Karl H . Grismer present­ed three theories as to where the Indians came from . He suggested that either the Indians migrated here from Mexico to escape the Aztecs. they came from the West Indies or they were orig­inally from Siberia, by way of the Aleutian Islands and Alaska, finally landing in Florida after cen­turies of wandering.

But 30 years later, theory has become fact. John McCarthy, Sarasota County historian, and history professor Charlton W . Tebeau, in his 1971 book . "A History of Florida, " agree: The Indians were a part of the great migration from Northeastern Asia, across the land bridge from Siberia to Alaska. when the oceans were lower. The Indians wandered the continent for thousands of years . Tebeau says that the earliest migrations into Florida occurred some 10,000 years ago, when extinct prehistoric creatures still lived here.

Shell mounds such as this one dot Sarasota and neighboring keys and serve as reminders of the Indians who inhabited the area. A burial mound excavated on Longboat Key contained one 7-foot-long skeleton and one which was nearly 8 feet long. Kitchen middens, or mounds, contain refuse from the Indians' diet of clams, oysters, conches and other shellfish.

Bay Isles B.C. In 1979, Marion M . Almy and George M. Luer

published an article in the June Florida Anthro· pologist titled "Three Aborlginal Shell Middens on Longboat Key, Florida: Manasota Period Sites of Barrier Island Exploitation." The article describes three shell middens, or refuse mounds, found during the dredging and development of Bay Isles on the Key during the late 1970s. Shells and pottery fragments led the authors to conclude that most of the remains dated from the Manasota Period, from about 500 B C . to 800 A .D . However, the authors also said that some may be from 1,000 B .C . In addition, the article says, "The smaller size and barrier island location of these sites in compar­ison with larger mainland sites probably reflects a less intense occupation of the Longboat Key sites."

Mrs. Almy and Luer also report that human bone fragments were found at one of the Bay Isles sites and that food remains included two tiger verte­brae, hanunerhead shark vertebrae, grouper bones, bird bones and deer bones. Shells of most of the specles of edible mollusks found in the shallow waters of the area were found at all three sites.

Evidence led the writers to conclude that the Longboat Indians' economy was based on fishing, hunting and shellfish gathering. Evidence of tools made from shells was discovered and other evidence indicates that burial practices involved cemeteries or burial in middens, often without arti­facts to take to the next life.

It is theorized that the Indians vacationed on the Key intermittently or seasonally because of the distance to the mainland villages. They came by

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canoe to explore for food and resources, collecting shellfish which they shucked and ate, leaving behind piles of shells . They also ate fish, deer and other animals which were hunted and bagged on the Key. Because the bones of green sea turtles were found nearby, the authors suggest that in the summer the Indians ate them for variety Fresh water to swig with the feasts was found in the interior of southern Longboat Key, in lowlands between beach ridges

LlnklngCuJts Starting around 500 AD, Tebeau says there

began a cultural sameness along the Gulf coastal plain from Charlotte Harbor to New Orleans, with commonly held religious beliefs as the unifying factor, and the influence of the Indians from the lower Mississippi Valley was eVIdent. The dJ.fferent tribes probably got along, McCarthy suggests, because there was ample food and thus no reason to war.

Longboat In Two Terrttortes? But which tribe might have resided on Longboat

Key remains a mystery. Tebeau maps the probable territories of SlX tribes in Florida in 1500, with a total population of 25,000. They are the Apalachee, the TimuCSUl, the Ais , the Calusa, the Tequesta and the Jeaga. The line between the Timucan territory and the Calusa is drawn somewhere in the vicinity of Sarasota Bay, with the Timucans headquartered on Tampa Bay and stretching northeast from there, and the Calusa centered around Charlotte Harbor, heading south along the coast. McCarthy says evidence to date still does not indicate which tribe might have lived on our island.

The Last Stands In his 1942 book, "The Mangrove Coast," Karl

Bickel, who was well-known to Longboaters of that time, wrote that after the Spaniards came to the area in the early 1500s, the Timucans seem to have withdrawn from Sarasota and Tampa northward. By 1612, Bickel says, when Spanish Lt. Rodriguez de Cartayo visited, all the Tampa and Sarasota bay areas were Calusa territory, with the headquarters still at Charlotte Harbor.

McCarthy believes that disease wiped out the Indians around 1600. Bickel reports that a plague of chicken pox swept over the whole Gulf country in the late-1600s and that the Indians were as helpless as they had been against smallpox. Bickel further states that in 1763, when the Spanish temporarily ceded Florida to the British, many of the Calusa emigrated to Cuba and the rest hid in the country south and east of Fort Myers_ Also according to Bickel, Calusa have been implicated with the Seminoles in a trading-post attack in Fort Myers in 1839 and in a massacre at a plantation there in 1840.

Tebeau says that the last of the Indians, then nUIJlberinJ;l: less than 200, left Florida with the Spanish in 1763_ Says Bickel, "In the smoke and flames of the (massacred) plantation, the Calusas slip from the pages of history. Today, unless perhaps in the veins of some vagrant Seminole, there is not a drop of Calusa or Timucan blood in all Florida_" •

De Soto At Longboat Much has been Written about Hernando de Soto's

famed exploration of our area 10 1539. Less has been said of De Soto, the man. Karl Grismer, in "The Story of Sarasota," does not mince words: "De Soto's record literally drips with Indian blood ." That is, of course, one opinion .

Anaseo Was Here FIrst There is a street on the north end of the Key

called Juan Anasco Drive . Anasco was De Soto's comptroller and chief scout. He was sent to explore the Gulf Coast for his boss 10 the fall of 1538 Anasco spent at least two months in and around Tampa Bay and was probably the first European to explore the upper waters of Sarasota Bay, the Manatee Ri ver and Boca Ciega Bay.

Some say that Anasco was wrecked somewhere upon the keys and while repairs werE' being made, the scouting party lived off the pelicans, gulls and fish they caught. Parts of a wrecked vessel found by Longboat resident Gordon Whitney in 1941 may be proof that Anasco and his men found shelter here on the Key . The material was dated by the American Museum of Natural History in New York as being "not less than 200 years old, but 400 years is more nearly correct." The parts are generally believed to belong to a ship in Anasco's expedition Anasco's, and perhaps others', prior explorations may have something to do with the fear of the local Indians when De Soto's fleet was sighted the next year

Smoke Signals Along The Coast As that fleet cruised north along the Gulf Coast,

one week out of Havana, columns of smoke rose from Indian fires up and down the shore. Indian fish10g canoes marked the fleet's progress and sent warnings to their northern neighbors.

Off the shore of Longboat, De Soto's pilots were unable to find the port previously chosen by Anas· co. De Soto lowered a pinnace, a small boat, took Anasco and his head pilot with him and made for the beach, reports Karl Bickel 10 "The Mangrove Coast." They came ashore De So to for the first llme on North American soil - approximately where the Longboat Arms stands today. Had the condominium been in eXlstence then, De Soto and his men might have rented a suite for the night .

Finding no fresh water at the Longboat landing spot, De Soto and his two men sailed the pinnace north and most likely crossed to the inside channel at the north end, proceeding into Tampa Bay through the Upper Sarasota Bay. Unable to return to the fleet because of darkness, the three men spent the night at Palma Sola Point, in a just· deserted Indian camp.

The next day De So to led the fleet toward Shaw Point, and by May 30 the bulk of the fleet was anchored there. All of the soldiers and animals were left to march from there and the lightened ships turned to the northeast, edging toward the Indian encampment of Ucita De Soto had spied on Terra Ceia Island. The next day, De Soto and his men took possession of the also-deserted camp. Joined by the rest of the men, who walked overland in less than 48 hours, the expedition rested at Ucita for almost six weeks. Some say that much of the village was destroyed before the explorers departed.

Tom Mayers of Land's End found this anchor while diving in Longboat Pass about ten years ago. Authorities aren't sure what type of ship it came from, but it could very well be from Juan Anasco's scout ship. (LK HS)

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Permanent Settlers ArrIve By Boat And Covered Wagon

According to Karl Bickel in "The Mangrove Coast," wandering Spanish and Cuban fishermen claimed Longboat Key as their own for centuries before 1842. A fishing camp and Indian trading station had been set up where the Village is today . Old charts, says Bickel, ' show the camp as "Saraxola."

When young William Whitaker, age 21, sailed into Sarasota Bay with his cousin, Ham Snell, in 1843, he headed for Saraxola. According to some reports, Whitaker found a lone Spaniard there -Elzwarthy or Alzartie - who advised Whitaker to settle where Whitaker Bayou is today, across the bay in Sarasota from Country Club Shores . The Spaniard told the white settlers that fish and game were abundant and that a man settling in the area would want for nothing. Cuban fishermen, also squatting on Longboat, told Whitaker and Snell that this section was by far better than anywhere else on the West Coast .

Whitaker made his first money by selling dried salt mullet and roe to Cuban traders who sailed up and down the coast. The supplies were indeed

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abundant. And when he went into partnership with his first American neighbor, Joseph Woodruff , in 1844, the output of dried fish more than quad· rupled .

'Granddaddy or All Hurricanes' Following too quickly the October hurricane of

1846, what the pioneers described as the "grand· daddy of all hurricanes" struck the coast on Sept. 22, 1848. With winds from the southwest, the keys along the coast were inundated. Ships were smashed to bits and the newly lit lighthouse on Egmont Key was blown down . Whitaker told his children some years later : "1 didn't believe 1 would live through the night . The logs ... groaned as though they were in agony ... But the cabin stood .....

New Pass Formed Whitaker's fishing business suffered great

losses . When he looked out across the bay the next morning to see whether his many nets on a beach on Longboat Key were still there, he couldn't see a trace of them - nor of the beach . Open water flowed where the beach had been . A new pass had been formed and that is the name Whitaker gave the opening - New Pass. •

Thomas Mann was born in Indiana in 1824, and served with Co. I, 7th Regiment of the Minnesota Infantry in the Civil War. Mann orig­inally came to Bradenton with his five children: sons Martin, James and Ira, and daughters Mary and Eliza. His wife, Mary , died giving birth to Ira. From left to right are: Mary Isabelle, Thomas Mann, Ira, Martin, and Eliza Ann. James is missing from this late 1800s photograph. (LK HS)

In 1888, Thomas Mann fled the yeJJow fever epidemic in Bradenton and moved to Longboat Key, filing a homestead claim. About 1891, he was granted 140 acres near mid-Key. He is shown in this photo with his son Martin in front of one of the earliest shelters on Longboat Key. (KC)

James Mann and his wife, Elizabeth, were among the first landholders on Longboat Key. In 1892, Elizabeth Mann received a federal land grant for "two scenic homesteads," issued during the presidency of Benjamin Harrison. (LO)

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Key's First Development Reported In 1913·14

Under the authorization of the River and Harbor Acts of 1890. 1892 and 1894. two channels were cut in our area in 1895. one at Palma Sola Pass in Upper Sarasota Bay and another southeast of Longboat Pass in Sarasota Bay. With the dredging completed. steamers could travel the inland water· way from Tampa Bay directly to Sarasota. stopping at fishermen 's wharves along the way.

The first steamer to make the run was the Mistletoe owned by John Savarese of Tampa. great-uncle to Fran Mayers of Longboat Key . Accordmg to Karl Grismer in "The Story of Sara­sota." "The coming of the Mistletoe meant more to Sarasota ... than anything in the region's history." Longboat Key may definitely be included in that statement.

Soon afte r. Sarasota's first newspaper. The Sara­sota Times . rolled off the press for the first lime on June 1. 1899 Excerpts from that paper. in the years IBl1 -1915. offer a picture of Longboat Key early in this ce ntury It appears that a majority of the reside nts w e re homestead rs . and mostly fruit farmers . Many excerpts suggest that speculative JOvpstors IdentifICd the Key's pote ntial well before World War I. Some of those excerpts l tllow

Pleasure Resorts Aug. 17. 1911: "Longboat Key is among Island

property on the Florida coast that is rapidly coming into prominence as a superb location for

pleasure resorts. winter homes. truck farms. and especially for the raising of tropical fruits . . . No more beautiful or favored spot exists on the Florida coast for picturesque scenery. tropical surround­ings and fertile soil .. . The trucking facilities of the Key are unexcelled for tomatoes. peppers. egg­plant. etc .... Rubber trees grow wild in large quan­tities and the Key is the natural home of the lime. the guava and the avocado pear .. .

"About 18 families live on the Key. the majority of these having homesteads. Mr. Corey was the original settler. having spent 15 years there .. . Those who have homesteads. among whom are Messrs. Corey. Eason. Gibbs and Olive. have truck gardens and guava groves which are bringing them handsome returns."

Aug. 17. 1911: "Sarasota patrolman G .W . White ... will have a hotel building of 16 rooms construct­ed . . on the Gulfside of the Key within a short distance of the landing of the Sarasota boats .. . The site of the hotel is on the north end ... within sight of the south extremity of Anna Maria Key. close to the Pass ... It is the intention of the hotel manage­ment to cater to the trade of fishing parties ... · ·

'Thousands' For 65 Acres Feb. 18. 1915: "Another important real estate

deal has just been closed in Sarasota. involving the sale of 65 acres of land located on Longboat Key. to Mrs. L .A. Edmundson. The tract is known as the Olive property and is said to be exceptionally valu­able land. The transaction totaled away up in the thousands .... .

After a channel was dredged through Sarasota Bay in 1895, Tampa fishing magnate John Savarese's steamship Mistletoe brought the first vacationers to Longboat Key. (LKHS)

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Until 1927 there were no bridges to Longboat. The Mistletoe stopped twice a week at Longbeach Pier on the north end of the Key and at Corey's Pier farther south. (SCHC)

Visitors to Longboat Key stayed at the Longbeach Hotel. During the teens and '20s, the hotel was owned and operated by Mr. and Mrs. Dorrity from 1913 to 1919, by Orena and George Frost from 1919 to 1925, and by Elizabeth Haverfield from 1925 to 1930. (LKHS)

Guests at the Longbeach Hotel had no need for sun-block lotions as fashions prevented overexposure. (MCHC)

Rltz·Carlton Was To Be Rlngllng's Big Topper

The Sarasota Ritz·Carlton Hotel is almost a folk tale to most residents of Longboat Key today . To those who were here before 1964. when the un· finished skeleton on the sou th end was demolished by the Arvi:ia Corp . . the tale takes on a more tan· gible reality . But the hotel itself was more a dream than reality to John Ringling. who started work on the grand project in 1926. only to abandon con· struction seven months later.

Ringling was the youngest of seven sons in his family and only 5 years old when his older brothers began their country circus in 1871. By 1884. the Ringling Bros. had their first big top. and in 1890 the circus was traveling by train.

" As the circus thrived," says a 1982 pamphlet published by the Arvida Corp., "so did John's far· flung financial ventures. He invested in most any· thing ... and money came racing in. From new cir· cus acts to oil wells, movie theaters, short· line railr08ds, and real estate, the eccentric John Ring· ling went with the long shots - and hit the jackpot. Success fed his ego, encouraged his ex· travagance and made hUn one of the richest men in the world."

Brotber VI. Brotber By 1919, the older Ringling brothers were dead,

and .Tohn and Charles remained to manage the circuses. The rivalry between the two brothers was evident in Sarasota, reports the Arvida brochure. While John designed his famous Ca d'Zan in Sara· sota, Charles built his own mansion on the bay just north. A yacht purchased by one resulted in a bigger yacht for the other. And when Charles built The Terrace hotel in Sarasota, John envisioned his resort for the strictly elite on Longboat Key. In late 1926 he began work on what was to be the world's most spectacular hoteL

le,l ADd The ca ...... , Soon atter World War I, Ringling added to his

Sarasota holdings by buying the south end of Longboat, Bird Key, St. Annands Key, Coon Key, Otter Key, Wolf Key and several other unnamed mangrove islands. He then owned most of the island land between the bay and the GuI! immedi· ately in front of the city of Sarasota. By 1925 the appearance of St. Annands, Lido and the southern end of Longboat Key were completely altered: Millions of cubic yards of fill were made, statuary from Italy was placed along the boulevards and thousands of coconut palms and Australian pines were planted. Sewer and water mains were install· ed, roads were surfaced and canals were dredged.

Work on the causeway connecting Lido and St. Armands with the city was started in January 1925; it was opened to the public in February 1926, having cost $700,000. The same day, Ringling Estates opened on those keys and crowds of poten· tial buyers "swarmed in by auto, ferry, yacht and free buses ... " according to the pamphlet.

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."

John Ringling was as proud as the lions who entertained breathless spectators at his circus. He dreamt of an unparalleled world­class resort on Longboat Key, and the only name that would do was the Ritz-Carlton. For the use of that moniker, Ringling offered the Ritz-Carlton of New York $5,000 a year.

PutUn' On The Ritz The new hotel had been planned by Ringling and

his friend Albert Keller of the Ritz·Carlton in New York. The Hegeman·Harris Co. was chosen to construct the designs by A Phillips of Warren· Wetmore Inc., the firm responsible for the entire chain of Biltmore hotels and other Ritz·Carlton structures.

After pledging $400,000 of his personal funds, with the belief that Sarasotans would subscribe to an additional $400,000, ground was broken on March 15,1926. The hotel was to be situated on 20 acres, plus another 10 acres that would have been the hotel's private vegetable and flower garden. One hundred thirty adjacent acres became the Longboat Key Golf Course, valued at $130,000 back then, and considered by many to be the very finest course in the United States.

The plug for public money went slowly, but Ringling personally guaranteed the price of construction and work proceeded. The foundations were laid . Framework soared, window casings and door frames went in and tons of bronze and brass

ARVIDA ••• GROWING WITH A

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I t was a dream, this Sarasota. But, oh, what a dream with a brilliant future! It was a vision that foretold

the future of the west coast of Florida in so flamboyant a manner that only a John Ringling could have had the stuff of the dream.

In 1926, Ringling began work on his dream of creating a resort hotel on Longboat Key that he would call the Ritz-Carlton, after the fabulous Ritz­Carlton in New York.

But, the Florida land boom exploded and the dream faded. Overnight.

The dream came to life again in 1958, when Arthur Vining Davis, Chairman of the Board of Alcoa and founder of Arvida Corporation, purchased all of Ringling's former Longboat Key holdings.

Arvida then became partners in progress with Sarasota, and with the development of Bird Key began to create some of Florida's finest

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communities and resorts. Ringling's dream for a truly magnificent resort was finally realized with the comple­tion of Arvida's Longboat Key Club. Not only does Arvida develop fine communities, but it actively supports the Arts in the Sarasota area. Arvida's commitment to Sarasota is a total commitment, one that would protect the natural beauty of Sarasota and would also enrich the lives of all who live in and visit the area.

Yes, the dream continues to live here in Sarasota, and Arvida Corporation is proud of its participation in making this area one of Florida's most outstanding destinations.

To spur the development of St. Armands and Lido Keys, John Ringling built a causeway from mainland Sarasota. Construction on the bridge began January I, 1925, and was completed a little over a year later. On February 7, 1926, the Ringling Causeway opened to the public at a cost of $750,000. Ringling gave the bridge to the city, which greatly facilitated the real estate sales of what was known as Ringling Estates. (I)

fittings. doorknobs and bathroom fixtures were shipped to the site . All of Sarasota watched and the Sarasota Herald said the hotel would be "a center of brilliance and gaiety surpassing anything of its kind in the Sou th . "

Bubbles Burst The hotel was started during the biggest real­

estate boom the nation had experienced. But by Thanksgiving, the bubble had burst in Florida. "When the boom bottomed out," says the bro­chure. "John Ringling cut his losses," and sus­pended all work on the project. Some say the Ritz­Carlton was just 60 days from completion. Over­night the bulldozers stopped snorting ... ..

The pamphlet's description is eerie: "The jungle crept back over roads that went nowhere. The halt­constructed bridge to Longboat Key hung at an awkward angle, gathering barnacles. The most melancholy spectacle of all was the rusting steel­work ... rising from the mangrove swamps and visible for miles around . Like a gigantic dinosaur, it had become obsolete before it had even evolved. The roofless hotel mellowed rapidly. cracking and gathering dust ... "

And for 35-plus years the skeleton remained. a tourist attraction in its decay, a grand dream aban­doned . Four people met accidental deaths in the crumbling six-story tower before it was sealed off in 1956.

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Sarasota real estate man A. S. Skinner used this old seaplane to fly prospective buyers over properties on St. Armands, Lido and Longboat keys. The easier access provided by the Ringling Causeway and by the New Pass Bridge, completed in 1929, was a strong selling point for the island lands. (SCHC)

Captain A. M. Holbrook landed this great white shark off the north end of Longboat Key in 1930. He used the skin for hides and the liver for extracting vitamin A. Holbrook and his assistant Edgar Green of Cortez caught more than six thousand sharks off the Key during a nine-year stint, though not many were as large as this "Jaws." (LKHS)

Sharks Big Business On Jewfish Key In 1930's

A factory on Longboat Key? Never! But it did happen.

In the year 1932, a "shark factory" opened at the end of lewfish Key across from the village of Longboat.

Caught, Boiled Sharks Captain A.M. Holbrook, a native of Maine and

retired engineer, moved to the Island after the market crash of 1929. Utilizing his love of fishing, he developed a method of catching sharks and boiling the liver to extract oil for vitamin A.

He and his assistant, Edgar Green, of Cortez, set out trot lines measuring over 1,()()() feet. From the lines at equal distance, some fifty smaller lines with baited shark hooks attached, would be tied. Each thousand foot line was anchored at either end with barrels used as floating markers.

Each day the two men checked the lines. They would then drag their catch to the shore near Trails End, cut it up and then transport it to lewfish Key . Here, they boiled the liver for its oil and the skins for hides.

During the nine years the factory operated, Captain Holbrook estimated they brought in over six thousand sharks.

Captain Holbrook, adopting "squatters rights", lived at the north end of Longboat, now Lands End. The present owners bought the property in 1937, at which time the Captain moved to the Village. He continued to operate his shark factory until 1941 .

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Fishing provided the livelihoods of many of Longboat 's ear liest residents. The waters off the Key abounded in mullet, loggerhead, green turtle, manta ray , tarpon and shrimp. On some days it must have seemed that the marine life just waited for the net or the hook. (I)

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Lora And Gordon WhItney

20th-Century Pioneers Of Our Island Paradise

There is no history of the people of Longboat Key unless it includes Lora and Gordon Whitney. Their arrival on the Key in 1935, says the May 1960 Look-Out, "touched off a chain of events that shaped the destiny of this tropical island."

In late 1934, having grown tired of the fight against the Depression in Evanston, Ill., where Whitney was in the insurance business, the young couple headed to Florida with their two sons, Charles and Robert, and their dog. Having just entered their 30 s, the Whitneys knew the time for change and the search for new goals and oppor­tunities had come.

Driving down Florida's still undeveloped West Coast, the family had a hard time finding a hotel or motel that would take children and pets. They finally were welcomed at a spot in St. Petersburg, but the beach was across the highway, causing shudders every time the boys went to swim.

GolDe Into Bua1Dell "We didn't like this setup a bit," Whitney told

The Look-Out. "Lora and I decided that if we felt this way, there must be hundreds of other tourists who felt the same way. We talked about how we would handle the situation if we were in the resort business and came to the conclusion that that is what we should do."

When they discovered unspoiled Longboat Key in their travels south, the Whitneys knew they were home. After several inquiries, Whitney acquired an option on 600 feet of Gulf-front property on the north end, and the family returned to Evanston to close up shop.

Whitney returned in the spring and purchased the land from Bob Bentley, the publisher of the Bradenton Herald. Whitney got hold of 400 more feet on the beach and went to work on the first five cottages.

Because of the Depression, Whitney had to do things like buy new tires and spark plugs for a trucker before he would haul supplies out to the desolate tip of the Key. There were no bulldozers so the land had to be cleared by hand. By the end of August, the cottages had roofs, just in time to brace against the Labor Day hurricane of 1935. A day of feverish activity securing the cottages saved them from the brunt of the storm, which in the end actually helped Whitney by washing up 75 more feet of beach along his property line.

That first winter, fire destroyed the Cortez­resort dining room of old friends from the North, Ray and Anna Schaf. (The Schafs later owned the Mara Beach cottages at mid-Key.) Gene and Millie Johnson had operated the dining room for the Schafs and found themselves out of a job after the fire . Whitney suggested ~hat the Johnsons run a restaurant on the Key and when they agreed, he bought the old hotel in the Village, re-decorated it and named it the Longbeach Inn. After World War II, the Johnsons bought their own restaurant on the Key and ran it with much success until 1959.

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Lora and Gordon Whitney arrived on Longboat Key in 1935 to set up a resort on the island's unspoiled beachfront. There were no bulldozers, so land was cleared by hand. Due to the Depression, labor was readily available, provided that the Whitneys would make the long drive south on Longboat, over the New Pass Bridge to Lido Key and east to Sarasota over the Ringling Causeway. (LO)

Tbe Loogbeacb Scbool After the birth of Gordon Jr. in late 1935, the

Whitneys built their own house behind the cottages. Realizing the difficulty of driving the two older boys into Sarasota every day, Mrs . Whitney lobbied the Manatee County School Board for a school on the Key. Needing schooling were the Whitney boys, and Ramona and Carlene Johnson, daughters of Carl and Nina Johnson. Carl was Gene's brother and had been hired as Whitney Beach foreman. The four children were not enough for a school, said the county, but Mrs. Edna Libert was available as a qualified teacher and with her four children, that was enough. Space was found in one of the three houses west of the Longbeach Inn and with the help of the Villagers, classes began in the fall of 1936. Millie Johnson was president of the PTA.

Tbe WarYean On December 13, 1941, through the school year

of 1944, Charles Whitney, with the help of Colvin Whitney and James Libert, published the Key's first weekly newspaper, the Gulf Gale. One of the paper's first issues reported: "Word has been received from the 3rd Interceptor Command Post at Drew Field, Tampa, that the Longbeach aerial observation tower (in Bayou Hammock) should stand ready to go on 24-hour duty." Wrote Mrs. Whitney years later of her son's news venture: "It has occurred to me that this newspaper, run so faithfully by elementary school students, must have been invaluable during the war years as a means of spreading important information throughout the Village and Whitney Beach concerning the manning of the observation tower, meetings of the War Relief Committee, canning and nutrition classes, when the Draft Board would be in the Village, and where (and) when ration

Built in the late '30s, Whitney Beach Cottages dotted the Gulf side of north Longboat Key. The first guests were former assistant secretary of the U.S. Treasury Carl Shuneman and his wife, Jean, a radio show host. The tiny village of Longbeach can be seen in the background of this 1938 photograph. (LKHS)

coupons would be available for distribution, etc." The Village War Relief Corrunittee met twice

weekly· at the Longbeach Inn. Millie Johnson was chairman, secretary and treasurer. Nina Johnson and Marion O'Shea were in charge of sewing and Mrs. Whitney of knitting. At the second meeting, Grace Yerkes and Louise Carpenter joined. During the war, a beach patrol was stationed at the Cabana Club to walk. the beach with dogs, and approxi­mately one mile at mid-Key was closed off part of each day while bombers practiced on targets in the Gulf.

Whitney went off to active duty in the U .S. Coast Guard Reserves for 33 months, including 13 months in the Southwest Pacific. He served as a watch officer on a large Army tug engaged in carrying supplies from New Guinea to the Philippines and later served as executive officer on a small tanker in Manila Bay. Back on Longboat, Mrs. Whitney coped with four sons, 13 hunting dogs, 12 cottages and a major hurricane in October 1944.

Post-War Growth After the war, Longboat Key attracted more and

more newcomers, and from that growth evolved a community spirit and many of the organizations which are so much a part of the Key today. The Whitneys were active in all . There was the Longboat Key Civic Club and the Junior Civic Club; the north end's first zoning; the publication of Key Notes for the benefit of the Junior Civic Club and later the Longboat Key Youth Center; the founding of t.he Longboat Key Art Center, of which Mrs . Whitney was president for eight years; and, of

Like much of the progress on Longboat Key, the initiative for a school on the Key came from the residents, especially Lora Whitney who lobbied the Manatee County School Board. When the board ruled that there were not enough children to warrant a school, a qualified teacher was found in Mrs. Edna Libert whose four children brought the total number of pupils to eight. The first Longbeach school house was on Broadway, next to the teacher's house. Classes were held there 1936-37 and 1937-38. (LKHS)

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course, the incorporation of the town of Longboat Key, and the subsequent Town Commission, on which Whitney served for two years .

Those * #"! * Mosquitoes! Mosquitoes were the bane of existence on Longboat

in the early days. The townsfolk were constantly bat­tling to control and eliminate them, using all kinds of in­genious methods.

Towels Over Heads They were so bad that some old-timers, such as Clare

Franks, remember putting towels ovec their heads when they went to the Post Office . Some remember actually having to scrape the mosquitoes off their arms and legs. And others recall seeing the bathers coming up out of the Gulf onto the beach, frantically waving and swatting their way through the thick swarms that seemed to be everywhere.

011, Drainage Ditches Little Gull Cottages' owner, Sue Chapman, Howard

Ridyard and Longboat Key 's first Police Chief, Gib Herringshaw, were in the fore-front of the fight to get rid of the pests. Over the years, they tried many devices.

Herringshaw and " Babe" Johnson first tried pouring oil on the water in the places where mosquitoes seemed to breed. Then Sue Chapman convinced the Sarasota County officials to put in a network of drainage ditches to carry off the stagnant water from the breeding places.

Fogging Helpful Fogging was used extensively, too. Herringshaw and

plumber Howard Ridyard put together a fogging device for Herringshaw's jeep that utilized the exhaust to spread a lethal spray. Manatee County supplied a 300-gallon tank of bug-killer and, twice every week, the jeep went up and down the Key, fogging every nook and cranny. They also fogged by boat.

Once, in 1954, Mosquito Commissioner Walt Franks was making his rounds on the fogger and stopped to chat and have a beer with Phil Ziegman at his home on

the Gulf, so the story goes. One thing led to another, the fogger kept getting hotter and hotter, and finally blew up, starting a fire that destroyed Ziegman's garage.

They adapted the fogger so that a similar one could be rigged up on a lawn mower. Most Longboat residents put them on their mowers so that they could cut their lawns and spray for mosquitoes at the same time. And on many a hot, still, summer evening, the whole area buzzed with the hum of dozens of lawn mowers.

Mosquito Traps Herringshaw, who also was the town's unofficial

weather forecaster, was interested in finding out how well the fogging and the drainage ditches were working. So he made up a mosquito trap. Twice a week, he and Ken Tutin ran the trap. The mosquitoes that they caught (anywhere from 10 to 5(00) were sent to the state for counting and identification.

Count 'Em! The local newspaper, the Longboat Look-Out, pub­

lished by Guy Paschal, regularly carried a report on the mosquito count, also noting the days when the Key had been "fogged."

A count of over 100 was determined by the state to be "bothersome to humans." A count of over 300 called for intensive fogging.

In 1954, there were 13 recorded days when the count was over 500 and 5 days when it went over 1000. By 1956, there were only 3 days when the count was over 500, and none over 1000. So they knew that their efforts were paying off.

Gradually, through the cooperative effort of all the citizens, plus new and more modern techniques, the mosquito population declined and no more traps and counts were needed. This, perhaps more than any other factor, brought an end to the "good old days" and made possible the growth and development that we have today on Longboat Key.

The north end of Longboat Key in the late '30s looked very different from what it does now. Before the beginning of the accretion of Beer Can or Greer Island in the early '40s, there was a large Gulfside beachfront area just north of and including the Whitney Beach Cottages. When erosion began, three of the cottages had to be moved farther inland. (LK HS)

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A Visit To Land's End Sways With A Salty Past

When you think Longboat K ey, you might think waterfront living. A reside nce on the Gulf - a few hundred yards back , please - or something on a canal sounds nice . What about a '40s cottage with Longboat Pass swe lling beneath the sea-creaky floors and a cozy reading bench immediately sur­rounded by three windows with reach -ou t -and ­touch wate r views'?

Such is the home of Fran Mayers , a great · niece of Capt. John Savarese, her maternal grand father 's brother . Savarese was u Tampa-based fishing 111agnate whosp steamer Mlstleto(' trans· ported vacatIOners to Longboat before the tUI'lI of the century H e uspd to own thp c hoice Land 's End spot on the northern tiP of til(' Key where Mrs Mayers and her husband , Frank, staI·ted to build their "cottage" in the late 1930s

Fish By Train In 1884 , the start of railroad service between

Tampa and points north enhanced the flshmg industry in the bay area. Among the large fish companies which moved to Tampa was that of John Savarese . Born in Naples , Italy . Savarese came to America in 1872 at the age of 10. H e joined his brother, Louis, in the fish business in Savannah .

Business must have been good because Savarese was educated in private schools and at McCardy 's Business College. He married Nelly Risley from Michigan (they never had children because Nelly

Fran Mayers, great-niece of Cap tain John Savarese, used to visit Longboat Key when Longboat Pass was so narrow that Anna "'aria Island was "shouting distance." .':>he and her husband, Frank, built a co ttage on the north end of Longboat in the l a te '3 0s and ca lled it "Land's End." (LKHS)

24

didn't want to ruin her figure. according to Mrs . Mayers) and established hlB who lesale fish business in Tampa in 1885 . A success from the start, Savarese employed as many as 550 men 10 years later . His fishing fleet consisted of 15 swling vessels, 150 small craft and a large steanwr , the Mistletoe .

The FIrst Tourists Befo re there w ere bndges on elth!' r pnd of

Longboat Key , the MistletOl' brought t1w Key 's earliest vacationers to thl' Island from Tampa Stopping here tWIce a week. til!' stewner parked at Longbeach Pier on th£' north end and Con 'y's Pll'r fartlwr sou th .

Industrial Leader AC('OI'dlllg to SOIlll' hiS toneal I-l'f I'I·(,II('I'S. Sa va

resl' was on(' of the first Illdustnal l{'adl'rs of nl(xiPrn TaInpa. H(' was v{,l-y IIlflupntlUl III till ' econoillics and social progn'ss o f tlw city TIlt' lIst of hiS profeSSIOnal llnd eivll' afflliatlOlls IS long- :lll!!

Included ' Illany y{'ul's as Itallull cOllsul at THlllpa . two tl'l"Ins on the TUInpa City CoullcIl. IIH ' IIl!Jt'! ' o f tlw Tan1pa Board of TI·ad(' . din'ctor of th{' Cltlz{'ns Bank and TI'USt Co : and VICt' pl'esl<iell t of tlH' FloI' ida Fish Dealers ASSOCiation .

III addItion, Ill' was an Important shan'holdel' ill the Florida Hor1le IIlSUI'WW{' Co . pr!'sldl'llt of tlw Tanlpa Huntel"s POint and Surasota Stt'aInshlp Co . VICP presld('llt of the TI'oplcal Co and h{'ad of Savarese & Co .. cigar n1anufacturl'rs HIS building w1d real estatl' holdings werl' vast, IIwludlllg pro pC'rty on Longboat and Manasota k eys. Toward thl' end of his lift" , Savaresp was decorated by King VictOl' EIl1n1anuei III With til(' C I'OSS of n CavaJIt·r of the Crown of Italy for Ius S{'I-VIC'(' to tlw Itnllll ll govel'nment

Mrs . Mayers' husband, Frank, was born in Barbados , one of 10 children . His father, the Rev . Herbert Mayers, was head of the board of educa­tion for Barbados and surrounding islands . When Frank was II, his parents thought it was time to get off the island and into a more civilized atmos­phere. Through a relative, the elder Mayers landed a missionary post in Vancouver, Canada, and the family packed up .

Somewhere near Chicago, Mrs . Mayers tells it, the train the family was on jumped the track and Frank's father injured his back . So the Mayers children were forced to work upon arrival in Van ­couver, having been tended by servants throughout their years on Barbados . "Frank used to joko that he didn't know how to tie hiS own shO!'s until then," says Mrs . Mayers.

'Love At FIrst SIght' Mayers was :JS when he nwt 25-year-old FI'ancps

Fitzgerald in Tan1pa. her nallve city " It was love at first sight ." bewns Mrs . Mayers " H(' was so diffprent from tllP local boys " They wen' marnl'd III 1 ~)3() .

" Frank was adventul-ous, " l'xplalns Ius Widow, and shol-t1y aftl'l' their marnage. th{' eld{'I'ly J ohn Savaresl' . who was in failing health . showed til(' nl'wlyweds hiS pOI·tfolIo of land holdlI1gs TllInklI1g that thC' propt'l·ties w en' notlllng but swanlp and Wilderness , the famIly had not lx'en paylllg the taxes . " Why don ' t you look at sonIe of thl' pIl'ces and settle 0I11"~ " Savarese suggested

This award-winning photograph shows Frank Mayers throwing a fishing net off the Land's End pier. Mayers and his wife, Frances, came to Longboat from Tampa first in 1921, settling permanently in 1959. (I)

25

'The Most PracUcal spor The couple took "Uncle Johnny" up on his offer,

and after exploring several areas, decided that the northern tip of Longboat was "the most practical spot." Mrs. Mayers had been to the property as a very young girl for weekends and family picnics. Savarese had built a house at Land's End in approximately 1913; the vacation cottage was washed away in the hurricane of 1921. Mrs . Mayers' memory of those earliest visits is not vivid. But she is fond of displaying a map, drawn before Beer can Island was formed, when Longboat Pass was so narrow, according to Mrs . Mayers, "that Uncle Johnny could call across to his Tampa friends in cottages on Anna Maria and describe the fish he'd caught."

Squatters Lose RIghts When the Mayerses paid the taxes and laid claim

to their north end property in 1937, a Capt. A.M . Holbrook and his assistant , Edgar Green, were living on the property and running a shark fishery on Jewfish Key . Having adopted squatter's rights , "on e more year and the property would have been his ," says Mrs . Mayers . Needless to say, the captain was upset, but he continued to run his factory on J ewfish un til 1941 .

The Mayerses got to work building a vacation house on their new land. The first attempt was a trailer, "but we finally decided that was ridicu­lous," remembers Mrs. Mayers, "and decided to

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TODAY ... The established tradition of excellence ... fine food and outstanding continental service con­tinues.

2401 Gulf of Mexico Drive 383-2441 Longboat Key

26

build a cottage with whatever materials we could get." At that time her husband was working for a turpentine business in Tampa, and on some weekends they would borrow the company truck and drive all the way around Sarasota, carting that week's cache of materials. The cottage was finished in 1940.

The 'PrtmlUve' We From 1940 to 1959, the Mayerses used the cot­

tage as a second home for themselves and their three children. Daughter Michael, known today on Longboat as Michael Saunders, was born in 1942, followed by another daughter, Joan, four years later and a son, Thomas, six years after that.

"The Key was very primitive when we first came down," says Mrs. Mayers. "The road was made of shell and sand and, of course, there was no bridge on the north end so it was a long drive around. The trees along what is now Gulf of Mexico Drive were like a cathedral arch along the road; a shaded canopy of trees." She also tells of stopping at a banyan tree, on what is now the golf course on the south end, for water from the artesian well . "We felt very much like pioneers," she said.

Mom·And·Pop Buslness The Mayers family moved to Land's End for good

in 1959. "Daddy always said that when they build the north-end bridge back, he wanted a marina," Ms. Saunders remembers. " We did get one and we moved down for good once the bridge was built . "

Longboat businesswoman Michael Saunders grew up on the Key and now plays a vital role in its balanced development through her suc­cessful real estate company.

Land's End Marina opened in 1960 on the far north end of Longboat Key. The Mayers family operated the business for eight years, seJJing bait and tackle suppJies, renting boats, and serving hamburgers, muJJet and sandwiches to famished fishermen. (LO)

Says Mrs. Mayers of those years after settling permanently, "It was a wonderful life. I wouldn't change a moment of it."

The Mayerses added on a dock out into the Pass, and a wing to their cottage for their new business, Land's End Marina, which opened in '60. They rented boats and sold bait-and-tackle supplies. And on the side they served mullet, sandwiches and hamburgers to go.

Nostalgia creeps into the voices of both Mrs. Mayers and daughter Michael as they recall the eight years of the business which closed when Mayers died in 1968. There were always boaters and friends around to make purchases or just to hang out at the waterfront spot and listen to Frank Mayers' "tales." And when the waters of the Pass became too low for boats to moor, Mrs. Mayers says, "people would drag their boats in just for one of Frank's hamburgers."

A Woman To Watch As tribute to her achievements since opening her

company in 1976, Ms. Saunders was named in the June 1983 Florida Trend magazine as one of 25

27

people in the state to watch over the next 10 years. Ms. Saunders says she was thrilled, because not only is she one of the few mentioned on the West t;oast south of Tampa, but she is the only woman on the list.

New Buslness Takes orr Ms. Saunders got her realtor's license in 1972

through another firm, and when Michael Saunders & Co. opened its doors in 1976, "The business took off right away," says the founder . "I am so fortun­ate to have started a business in a place I really love. "

Ms. Saunders suggests that she inherited her sales ability and her love of people-contact from her father, Frank Mayers. Frank and his wife, Fran, who continues to live on the Key, ran the Land's End Marina on the shores of Longboat Pass until his death in 1968.

"When we had the business here, it gave all of us a love of our environment and a chance to work with and meet lots of different people," says Ms. Saunders. "I must have learned sales from my father," she adds with a twinkle in her eye.

A WeU-Traveled General Was FIrst Major Developer

Before he moved to Longboat Key in 1939, ac­cording to a 1959 Key Look-Out, Gen. Joe Harris -a native of England who moved to Canada in 1909 at the age of 14 - had been a constable in the Royal Northwest Mounted Police, emerging from European service in World War I as a lieutenant colonel with many decorations. He then lived in Detroit, where he-made his name in the construc­tion business, erecting mills, railroads and buildings of all sorts. By 1929 he had his own con­struction and development company, only to lose his fortune when the stock market crashed.

Harris then tried a mining career, in the Far East no less, and by 1938 he had made yet another fortune, having located valuable manganese deposits in the Philippines. Anticipating trouble with the Japanese, he sold out much of his holdings and returned to England. Forseeing trouble when Adolph Hitler moved into Austria, Harris liquidated his British holdings and returned to the United States.

Cbeerl·Bo Harris had first been to Florida in 1926,

returning in 1939. Longboat Key caught his eye and he stayed, building the Cheeri-Ho Cottages south of the county line, which he ran from 1939 until 1946, selling then to Bea and Lyall Thompson.

Harris then purchased 430 acres on the north end. He dredge-filled Wake Island, later known as Hideaway Bay, and constructed Dream Island, where in 1947, he built the Sleepy Lagoon Club, the present site of The Buccaneer Inn. He and his wife, Trudy, ran the club, where a cottage fire sparked the formation of the Key's volunteer fire department in 1953. Harris also developed Sleepy Lagoon Parks No. 1 and 2 in 1951 , touching off a period of growth which has not subsided.

By 1954, Harris had disposed of most of his land in lots and strips, through the efforts of Luke Garaux, who managed the sales . To those who don't remember Joe and Trudy Harris, the name

General Joseph Harris sits astride his World War I mount in full uniform of a lieutenant colonel. His sidearms, saber and confident manner tell the tale of a self-made man who took things in hand. After making several fortunes, Harris settled on Longboat Key and began making his mark on the island, building the Cheeri-Ho Cottages of which he was propr ietor from 1939 to 1946. (I)

rings a bell because of General Harris Street, a north-end thoroughfare which stands as a single marker to a man who changed the look of Longboat.

General Harris built the Sleepy Lagoon Club in 1947 and ran it with his wife, Trudy. As well as the restaurant and bar, Harris built cottages at Sleepy Lagoon, now the site of the Buccaneer Inn. A fire in one of the cottages sparked the formation of the Longboat Key Volunteer Fire Department in 1953. (LKHS)

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Karl Bickel Was Involved In Longboat Cabana Club

When Karl Bickel published his 1942 history, "The Mangrove Coast," he was a retired journalist and a former president of United Press Interna­tional. Then a resident of Sarasota, he was most familiar with and captured by the beauties of Long­boat Key.

Karl A. Bickel retired from his position as president of United Press in 1935 and moved to his home adjacent to the John Ringling Towers on Tamiami Trail. Drawn to the beauty of Longboat Key, Bickel, along with Samuel Gumperts, general manager of the Ringling Circus, Mrs. Charles Ringling, Marie and William Selby, and the Harley Graves, among others, founded the Longboat Cabana Club on the site confirmed as DeSoto's landing point. (LO)

Bickel was one of the founders of the Longboat Cabana Club in 1935, together with the Samuel Gumperts, the Harley Graves, Mrs. Charles Ringling, Marie and William Selby, and others. With docks for Sarasota sailors and yachtsmen on Buttonwood Harbor, and bungalows across the way on the Gulf, the club serviced many of Sarasota's prominent citizens on their weekend escapes until fire destroyed the club in 1959.

WIlEN YOU NEEI) TO KNOW. .. WE ARE '!'IIERE.

THE Local News & Information Source

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Gordon Whi tney bought the Longbeach Hotel in 1936, remodeled it and reopened it as the Longbeach Inn, placing its management in the capable hands of MiJJie and Gene Johnson. Many a vacationer savored the home-cooked meals served at the Inn's restaurant. (LKHS)

After managing the Longbeach Inn, the Johnsons decided to open their own restaurant and tavern. Johnson's became one of the Key's popular "hang-outs." This 1948 photo­graph shows MiJJie and Gene with their two dogs Blackie and Whitie standing in front of their establishment. (L K HS)

Johnsons' Restaurant Was Key's Favorite Spot

Stories of the 'old times' on Longboat Key could nl!ver be complete without talking about the Johnson Restaurant and Bar.

Ran Hotel-Restaurant Gene and Millie Johnson arrived on the Island

through the efforts of Gordon Whitney. Although his Whitney Beach Cottages had housekeeping facilities, Whitney felt home-cooked dinners at his Longbeach Inn, would add to his guests' enjoyment. The Johnsons were asked to take on the job. As both cooks and hosts they were the perfect choice. The food was excellent and Millie and Gene were colorful people.

Opened Own Place By 1947 the Johnsons had decided to build their own

place. With the purchase of approximately two acres of land on the left side before Longboat Pass Bridge, they constructed Johnson's Restaurant and Bar.

The restaurant not only became a favorite spot for Longboat Key residents but attracted off-islanders too. It became a familiar sight to see baseball players from most of the big league teams lined up at the bar.

Became Broken Reef In the early 1960's Millie Broken Reef is still

and Gene sold the remembered and talked restaurant. !t was leased to about by the townspeople. Harry Myford and his It was the end of an era partner and renamed The when Johnson's Restaurant Broken Reef. In 1963 fire and Bar was the most struck. The fire at the popular spot on the Island.

Johnson's Restaurant was a familiar sight on north Longboat Key facing Anna Maria Island. Popular with Longboat residents and off-islanders alike, it was operated by MiJJie and Gene Johnson until the early '60s. The restaurant was later sold and renamed the Broken Reef and subsequently destroyed by fire in 1963. (LKHS)

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Grocery Shopping Once Took 12 Hours

Here on Longboat there was a time when food ~Ihopping took close to twelve hours.

During World War II, when the U.S. Army was smtioned in the area, Longboat was one of the offshore islnnds designated as a practice bombing range. Driving smhh on Longboat, close to the County line, there was an ~ ( curve in the road with a gate at either end of this curY~ . At eight o'clock each morning, the gates would closes. At five o'clock in the evening, they would open .

Spend The Day Ashore With only two small grocery stores on the Island and

no brici~e at the North End, this necessitated shopping in Saralota. So Longboat residents had to leave the Island tefore eight in the morning to beat the gates. They thet~ spent the day on the mainland until the gates reopened', at five o'clock . This procedure continued through n ,e war years.

No wonner the early residents of Longboat were such hardy souBJ

In the e:-\rly fifties, the "newly opened" Ringling Bridge brokJe down and caught some Longboat resi­dents on tho. other side. The bridge was out for weeks while they !:earched for a part stranding Longboat residents on "he mainland . But someone, possible the state DOT proitided ferry service so that people, but not cars could pass~by.

With their usaal perspicacity, the Longboaters whose cars were stranaed in Sarasota, gave their keys to their friends who wanted to go shopping on the mainland in return for a ride home from the other end of the ferry . It worked out just floe for a few people until the bridge was repaired.

This early '40s photograph of the north end of Longboat Key shows the beginning of the accretion of Beer Can or Greer Island. With no bridge on the north end of the Key, Longbeach Village residents had to drive the length of the Key to get to the mainland. (LKHS)

Longbeach Village in 1946 epitomized a quaint seashore community with bungalows and cottages clustered among Australian pine and palm trees. Mar Vista Pier is in the foreground with a walkway leading to the bait shop and restaurant. The small white building just left of the center is Darsey's Grocery Store, one of the two stores on the island at the time. (I)

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When Gulf Shore Trailer City mobile home park opened on Longboat Key in October 1948, there was nothing northward for 3 1/2 miles, and only a few cottages and the private Longboat Cabana Club to the south. The mobile home park then looked quite different from modern parks. Trailers in those days were literal1y "trailers" and easily hitched to the family car. (GSTC)

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The first Longboat Pass Bridge washed away during a very high tide in March 1932, shortly after this photograph was taken. Its wooden structure couldn't stand up to the swirling waters between Longboat Key and- Anna Maria Island. (MCHC)

The next bridge to span Longboat Pass was completed 25 years later, in 1957. As well as providing easy access to north Longboat Key, the bridge also gave anglers a good place to lean their elbows. (MCHC)

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The Birth Of An Art Center In March of 1952, a small group of Longboat Key

residents - and in those days, the entire population of the Key could be called a small group - met and proceeded to make an idea of Grace Yerkes come to life. At a luncheon meeting, officers were chosen to head an organization that was to be called the Longboat Key Art Center.

Officers The officers elected at that meeting were Lora Whit­

ney, President; Grace Yerkes, Vice President; Carl Schuneman, Treasurer; and Allison Ferguson, Secretary. The Advisory Committee was made up of George Yerkes, Werner Kannenberg and Gordon Whitney .

The Workers Carl and Imogene Schuneman began a fund raising

drive , land was donated by the Whitney's, the building was designed by Kannenberg, an architect from Sarasota; the land was cleared by Neil Ulrey, and Ansel McMichen and his crew constructed the buildings . Interior work was handled by Howard Ridyard and Ross Flemming, plumbing; Will Le Page and Gilbert Herringshaw, wiring; Ruskin Williams and volunteers, painting; and the landscaping was by Pearson Conrad. In short, it was a real community effort, three years before it was a real community.

The original building consisted of two studies, which were divided by a moveable screen, a pottery studio seperated from the kiln room by a covered patio.

Opening Day On December 3, only nine months after the whole

thing was started, the Longboat Key Art Center opened with an instructors show and an exhibit by local artists.

35

It took only nine months for the idea of the Longboat Key Art Center to become a reality. Community effort created the facility, with land donated by the Whit­neys, building designed by Sarasota architect Kannen­berg and built by resident specialists in construction, plumbing, lighting, wiring, and landscaping. Classes be­gan at the Art Center in January 1953. (LO)

The day and evening classes got underway the first wee\( of January 1953. The first instructors were Marilyn Bendell, Earl Gross, Ruskin Williams, Harriet Goddard and Mrs. Kenneth Tutin. There were 97 members in 1953, and the number has increased steadily over the last 28 years.

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Stroll out the door of your vacation hideaway and swim in the clear, mild waters of the Gulf. Soak up the sun relaxing on the prestigious beach. Take a quick dip in our heated pool with water massage. Enjoy all the conveniences, the luxurious villas and apartments , completely furnished , direct dial phones, color TV, putting green, stores and restaurants near· by. It 's all waiting for you at the Holiday Lodge Beach Resort. Extra Large Apartments.

4235 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key, FL 33548 (Sarasota) (813) 383·3788

Sleepy Lagoon Fire Sparks Fire Department

Early on the morning of August 6, 1953, an alert was sounded throughout Longboat Key . Fire at Sleepy Lagoon!

Guy Paschal and his wife, who lived nearby on Wake Island , roused from sleep by their son who had spotted the blaze, ran to the front yard . The flames could be seen for miles . While Guy and his son took off for the fire, Melanie Paschal called the Sarasota Fire Depart­ment.

Because of the distance the apparatus would have to travel (close to 15 miles) she had to "guarantee" the fire . (Not long before, the Sarasota Dept. had answered a call only to find the fire extinguished on their arrival.) She then called every able-bodied man in the town. "Everyone came." she said .

Fought Fire For Hours At Sleepy Lagoon, four cottages were ablaze next to

the restaurant and Sleepy Lagoon Bar (now the Buccaneer Inn and Restaurant.) The Sarasota Fire Department, consisting of one fireman and one retired policeman arrived. Within a short time the water ran out of the tanker and the manager of Sleepy Lagoon had collapsed. Guy and the policeman grabbed the big hose and pulled it to the Bay. It was hard pulling, and half way back, the policeman keeled over. He was placed next to the manager on the bench. The Long­boat Key men now arrived and for over four hours, pulled mattresses and furniture from rooms, pumped water from Sarasota Bay and saved the second row of cottages.

One, Two, Three ... Out General Joseph Harris, owner, arrived, took one

look, and fainted. He joined the other two men lying on benches. Within a short time, the three men began to 'come around'. General Harris found he was strong enough to order free drinks for all. Melanie Paschal offered to tend bar. As it was her first experience in this capacity, everyone who ordered whiskey got an eight ounce glass, full to the top.

At 8:30 the next morning the men met at the Pepper­mint Stick Restaurant. Here, it was decided a Volunteer Fire Department was, definitely, needed on Longboat Key. The proposal was taken to the Civic Club. They turned it down . They were too busy. It had been sug­gested before. It would never work.

$75 Dollar Fire Truck Guy Paschal was determined that Longboat Key

needed a fire department. He felt something dramatic had to be done to stir up interest among the towns­people. What constituted a fire department? Why a fire engine, of course.

Clearwater had a fire truck it was selling for one thou­sand dollars. The Paschals went to Clearwater and talk­ed to Fire Chief Pete Treola. They explained how this was a new department and had been turned down by the Civic Club. Chief Treola had been on the Volunteer

-,OLD 1£1 IIUIA-

The Longboat Key Volunteer Fire Department began with the truck. After the idea for a volunteer fire department was turned down by the Civic Club, innovator Guy Paschal bought this 1923 Brockaway La France , fire engine from Clearwater for $75. Longboat men who signed up as volunteers took turns driving the truck and testing its gadge ts. (LKH S)

36

force thirty years before and this had been their first engine. They had put out 5,000 fires with it before she was retired. He started calling the Board of Commis­sioners. As it was Saturday morning, the Commission­ers were not happy, but they gave a price. Would $75 dollars be alright?

No Hom, Bell, or Brakes The Paschals boarded the engine for their return trip

to Longboat Key. It was a 1923 Brockway La France with no windshield, no bell and only a bench for a seat. As they drove through Clearwater they spotted a bell in a Packard dealership window. They bought it. When they hit St. Petersburg, the brakes gave out. They were approaching an intersection where a policeman was directing traffic . Guy yelled to Melanie, "Ring the bell!" Cars pulled over and the police waved them through. They boarded the ferry at Piney Point and then on to Sarasota, and finally, Longboat Key.

Volunteers Loved It They arrived at the Village at 9:30 at night. Knowing

that most of the men, on Saturday night, would be at Mar Vista, they made their dramatic entrance. The new engine had a cut-out and he opened it wide. Melanie rang the bell. Men poured out the door . They clustered around the truck . They climbed aboard and touched and tested everything. Like children with a new toy, they were thrilled. They took turns driving the truck and the price, of course, was to sign up for the fire department. Twenty-six signed that evening and the Paschals had completed another "mission."

Cooperation Was Key To Volunteer Fire Dept.

What made the Longboat Key Voluntary Fire Department such a viable part of the community? Past Chief Ansel McMichen answered with one word: "Cooperation!"

Everyone worked together. It was this feeling that united the town. Many people off-island offered their services.

The Anna Maria Fire Department invited the Longboat Key men to join them in their training programs. This entailed taking a boat from Longboat to Bradenton Beach where the Anna Maria men met them and drove them to the Fire station . After the meetings they would be driven back to the boat for their return trip.

Chief Causert of Sarasota 'officially' was unable to promise any active help but 'unofficially' he would be available. "Just call ." It was to prove a bargain well struck. One time the Sarasota Fire Dept. had to call on the Longboat men for help. A fire was reported at the Yacht Club and no apparatus was available; everything was in use. The Longboat men made the run and extinguished the blaze.

Everyone Pitched In Dr. Carver of Sarasota helped the men select the first

resusitator. He instructed them in its use, and was always available to help.

Gordon Whitney allowed the fire trucks to be stored at Whitney Beach until the new fire house was built.

Land was offered at The people of Longboat premium rates. Men signed Key worked and supported bonds, and the towns- and were proud of their Fire people bought honorary Department. badges.

Nearby communities offered their assis­tance to the fledgling Longboat Key Volun­teer Fire Department. The Anna Maria Fire Department initiated a joint training venture, and Sarasota Fire Chief James C0wsert extended his department's "unofficial" co­operation. He is shown here, at right, greeting newly appointed Longboat Fire Chief Ansel McMichen. (LKHS)

Members of the Longboat Key Volunteer Fire Department pose for the camera in front of their new building and truck. Funding for the new department came from the townspeople and from the efforts of the Ladies Auxiliary . (I)

37

Womens' Auxiliary Was On Network TV

The Womens' Auxiliary of the Longboat Volunteer Fire Department was formed as soon as the men were organized. They were to become the major financial support for this nedgling Fire Department and, on one unforgettable occasion, were active participants. They put out the first fire!

It all started at W :30 one October morning. "Red Maria" had been outfitted with pump and hoses. The men had received training over in Anna Maria from the State Fire College . With borrowed helmet s from the Sarasota Fire Department, the men manned the pump. This was the first fire drill for the new department. It was a complete success.

"Red Maria" Ready After the drill, the women planned their first money­

raising function, and then joined the men to help paint "Red Maria". With the fire drill over and "Red Maria"

resplendant in her new coat of paint, the men were ready. They waited for their first fire .

Women Ready, Too That afternoon several of the womens' auxiliary were

outside their homes when they spOiled a small brush fire in an adjoining lot. Feeling it was too small to bother the men about, they grabbed their brooms and ran to the site. Beating and stamping on the fire, the women had the fire out in no time.

On Network TV Repercussions started almost immediately. From an

article in the paper, the national press picked it up. Then the story of the Longboat women pUlling out the fire caught the attention of Dave Garroway on the Today Show.

The television crew arrived in Longboat. And so, for all the world to see, the women reenacted their part in pUlling out the first fire after the founding of new Volunteer Fire Department.

The Ladies Auxiliary of the Longboat Key Volunteer Fire Department organized to support the efforts of the men. Delectable smorgasbords were served at the Fire House to raise money for the department. From left to right, Mrs. Cecil Scholfield, Mrs. Evelyn Kent, Mrs. Hazel McMichen, Mrs. William Hewitt, Mrs. Melanie Paschal, Mrs. A. J. Leonard, Mrs. Jane Corbett and Mrs. James Allen practice handling the firehose on the Red Maria. (LKHS)

38

"Ma " Sibole of Mar Vista s t ands r eady t o se rv e th e evening crowd a t her populdr neighborhood tav e rn in Longbeach Village. ,\1 any an islander took advan t age of Mar Vista's rel axed atmosphere t o cha t with neighbors and enjoy a cool beve r age on d ho t night. (LKH S)

Mar Vista Was Key's Saturday Night Hang-Out

Mar Vista was originally owned by Don Nemo and Ray Smith. They built the Pub and sold bait, tackle and beer. The door was always open and customers could help themselves . It worked on the honor system. The two owners never lost a penny .

Mar Vista reached the height of its popularity under the ownership of Mr . and Mrs. Edward Sibole . They added a room, bought the adjoining property (Mrs. Frederick's Place) moved the bait shop to a shed near the Pier and enclosed the outdoor toilets . It was the meeting place for the Village residents and many a political argument occured at the bar . The Siboles served hamburgers and cuban sandwiches, fought the mosquittos, hauled the bait and managed the two story apartment house .

Captain John Thomas lea~ed the dock from the Siboles for a short time . He ran a chartcr boat business with the 'Helen B' named after his wifc . Captain Thomas built a small fleet of fishing prams for the local and visiting fishermen.

3':1

This "lon gboa t" g reeted vi si tors re siden ts a t th e sou th end of Longboa t just pas t th e New Pass Bridge. (I)

and Key

How The Town Began When the Sarasota County Commission decided to

put a public beach in front of the trailer parks on Long­boat, the Key rose up. There was enough interference by the County in Longboat affairs as it was, and the residents had had nothing to say in decisions of zoning, taxation, roads, parks, beaches, subdivisions, business, liquor licenses, sewers, water, street lights, among many others.

Voted Down The matter was presented to the Civic Club and it was

voted down, because it was argued there would not be enough hands to do the work . There had been Red Tide on the beach for two years and there weren't enough volunteers to keep the beaches clean . That night an attorney advised that one resident could sign a form and the whole community had to vote on incorporation within thirty days. The resident signed late that night.

A meeting was called for the following Tuesday, not of members but of the entire community. In the meantime Mayor Charles Hess of Bradenton Beach which had been through the same incorporation procedure, was consulted. There were 200 registered voters in Bradenton Beach at the time of incorporation. He advised holding meetings twice a week for the month before the election, and was invited to address the second meeting.

Major Holt Against The meetings went fairly smoothly . Major J. B. Holt

was the leader of the opposition and Mr. Charles

Flanagan was the most verbose. The Chairman and Mr. Cecil Scholfield listed all of the main points on which the opposition spoke at each meeting, and published the answers before the next meeting. This mimeographed bulletin was distributed to each household on the Key.

Major Holt announced at the first meeting that the Chairman and Mr. Gordon Whitney had arranged to incorporate so they might add all the improvements to the Key, raise the taxes and buy the property from the ')eople who could not pay. He eloquently described the "Lght of the widows and the old people who could not afford to live on the Key any longer, if the Key should be incorporated.

Mar Vista To counteract this, the Chairman used to call on all

the leading citizens, in their homes, and cover all the bars. After the fourth meeting he went with Mr. C.R. Morehead and Mr. Edward Sibole to the Mar Vista Bar, which was crowded. Mr. Flanagan was there, well in his cups. He said he was a champion light-heavyweight boxer and that the Chairman was a coward because he wouldn't fight. The Chairman explained he would be delighted to fight with gloves on, when Flanagan was sober. He then left followed by Mr. Flanagan, who threatened to shoot him on sight and to bomb his home. Then Flanagan struck him as he was getting into the car, in which Mr. Morehead and Mr. Sibole were sitting. He then made a dash to his car, and someone yelled that that is where he keeps a gun . Not finding it, he grabbed a tire iron. The Chairman pulled him away from his car, and after a few minutes of fighting, Mr. Flanagan was carried back into the bar and Mr. Morehead and friends then proceeded to Sleepy Lagoon Club.

Dur ing a month-long campaign, incorporation committee chairman Guy Paschal convinced Longboat Key residents it was time for Longboat Key to become its own town. Until then, decisions affecting Longboat were made by county governments of Sarasota and Manatee. With diligence and perseverance, Paschal persuaded Longboaters to take up the reins of management of " Florida ' s Youngest Town." (LKHS)

40

The first Longboat Key Town Commission of 1955 included (from left to right): Herb Field, Joseph Zwick, Gordon Whitney, Howard Ridyard, Wilfred LePage, Cecil Scholfield, E. C. Snyder and John Ashcraft. (LKHS)

Black Eyes At the next meeting the Chairman had a black eye

from the blow struck while getting into the car. UIO

Herringshaw, later to become Longboat's Chief of Police, and a County Deputy Sheriff, patrolled the window behind the Chair on the platform. Golf clubs, Stillson wrenches, and such were poorly concealed by members of the audience. Anyway, there was no Mr. Flanagan which made the meeting much easier to chair. In face Mr. Flanagan, who had lived in the Village for several years, disappeared the day after the fight, and was last seen sporting two black eyes covered with dark glasses, and other signs of combat.

98·3 In Favor Finally the day came for the vote . Nov . 14, 1955 . It

was held in the new fire house and the votes were 98 . 3 in favor . And the mayor and council and officials were all elected, and all went well until the second meeting, when Mayor Wilfred LaPage phoned the ex-Chairman of the Incorporation Committee. "We haven't any money," said the Mayor. "You said we would have over $15,000 and we haven't seen a nickel." It seemed the Board had spent five dollars of their own money on the corporate seal, and no money had come in . "I said it would come in during the year," said the ex-Chairman. "That gives you credit, and you can borrow some. I'll make a date with Jim Spencer, he's General Manager of Florida Power & Light, your biggest franchise holder ." The next day we were in Jim Spencer's office .

"I heard about your incorporation," he said . •• Yes, and we want to borrow some money. " "That's not our business." "No, but we thought you might make it your business

because we went into business at the wrong time of year. "

41

"Let me see if we can." He picked up the phone and asked for his lawyer in Miami .

"Hellow, Mr. Hopkins, can we lend the new town of Long~oat Key by paying them in advance? They need about $1,500.

"Yes." "No." "Yes." "Thank you very much, Mr. Hopkins. "

"There you are, gentlemen . I'll have it in the mail." And they went back with about half the money FPC

would pay later. That would last until the County paid a refund on the road tax, most of which it had kept before. The town would get the rest during the coming year .

No Newspaper But on April 1956 Glenn Berry, the town attorney,

called the ex-Chairman of the ex-Incorporation Committee to tell him that the city of Longboat was falling to pieces. The town marshall had quit, one councilman resigned, and there were many other signs of lack of interest. The reason was there was no newspaper, in his opinion . So he looked into the matter. There were nineteen ordinances on the books and the only notice to the public was in the fine print of the legal announcements of the Sarasota paper and a small notice on the bulletin board in the Longbeach Post Office. So no one ever knew what the Council was doing . The Key is ten and a half miles long and had a population of about 700, men, women, and children . So there was only one thing to do . That was to publish a newspaper. That was done and the Longboat Look-out was published for five years at a loss of $ 127 ,000. But from the first edition, which was mailed to everyone on the Key, the government was strong. Every week all the people knew everything that happened.

Do You Remember The Peppermint Stick?

In 1946, John and Mildred Ashcraft from New Lon­don, Conn., visited Longboat Key, liked it, and decided to eventually settle here. He was a heating contractor, and on repeated trips down to Longboat, they picked the north end of the Key for their eventual home, bought the land in 1953 and moved down, having decided to go into the Inn business, but not renting out rooms. Instead, they lived upstairs.

Connecticut Influence John and Mildred designed the building after an old

New England candy and ice cream store and planned to furnish it that way too, as an early American country store without the pot bellied stove or groceries.

The construction of the building was done by the

Ashcrafts with technical help from Ansel McMichen and others. When it was all done and needed a paint job, Mildred and John went at it, but a lot of people helped in the old pioneer spirit. The very top was a bit of a problem and when few volunteers came forward, Mildred grabbed the brush and can and went up the ladder to the very top. "John was always afraid of heights," she said.

Unofficial Town Hall Once in business, The Peppermint Stick became the

unofficial Town Hall, since it was across the street from the Fire Station where they had the Commission Meet­ings.

No intoxicating beverages were served but their lunches, sodas, ice cream and sundaes drew people from allover Sarasota. (The bridge to Anna Maria island hadn't yet been replaced.) For a stiffer drink, the natives went to Mar Vista, but for softer fare, it was The Peppermint Stick, especially during the day.

Designed after a New England candy and ice cream shop, the Peppermint Stick fountain and restaurant on north Longboat Key became the unofficial town hall and gathering place for island residents. (LKH5)

42

For more than 12 hours a day, the cheery interior of the Peppermint Stick was open for business. John and Mildred Ashcraft were well known for their fare of sundaes and sodas, broiled steak (for $2!) and choice Bokar coffee. (LK HS)

John was quite a cook, too, and for less then $2.00 he would broil a steak fit for a king. He and Mildred catered to the family trade, and they all recommended their friends .

Pure Water Mildred brewed excellent coffee, too. Gordon Whit­

ney is said to have come in for his usual 5-10 coffees a day and he usually met someone to talk to concerning the affairs of the day. Mildred's secret, she said, was the pure water she used and the Bokar coffee. The water came from her own shallow well just to the right of her front door (I'll bet the pipe is still there," she said). "It wasn't filled with sulphur like most of the water on Longboat. It was just pure, fresh water and we didn't have to go down more than 5 feet."

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Mildred's brother, Cecil Scholfield, was as active as anyone could be in the formation of the Town in those early days as was John. They both served on the first Town Commission and Cecil went on to become Town Manager.

Changes Hands The Peppermint Stick lasted only two years, but it

was at its heyday at the time the Town was being form­ed. Mildred said it was just too much work for the two of them and a waitress, so they sold it. In successive years it became The Chanticlair, Long John Silver, Cali's Casa Nova and finally the present owner, I' Auberge du bon Vivant.

Those who remember The Peppermint Stick are in­deed Old Timers on Longboat Key .

Melanie And Guy Paschal

In Eight Years On The Key They Re· Wrote Our History

Although they only resided on Longboat Key from 1949 to 1957. Melanie and Guy Paschal so involved themselves in the affairs and the well­being of the Key - from the first volunteer fire department to the incorporation of the town - that their names will forever remain in the annals of our history. Those who knew Guy Paschal and worked with him on so many of his tasks. say simply: "Guy Paschal was a mover."

IncorporadoD Took Some Doing The fight for the Fire Department was nothing

compared to the struggle Paschal faced in convinc­ing Longboaters to incorporate. The motivating factor came froc the Sarasota County Commis­sion's attempt to declare the Gulf beach across from the Key's trailer parks public beach. Based on that. Paschal pointed out that the Key had little enough say in its own affairs .

Once again. the Civic Club. by a vote of 91 -2. said no. A fear of taxes was among the reasons. But Paschal was relentless and recruited other citizens - including Gordon Whitney. Herb Field. Howard Ridyard. Cecil Scholfield. Joe Zwick and Will LePage - in his campaign. Paschal and his com­mittee took their case to the residents directly. in their homes and in their favorite hangouts . Paschal did not stop. even in the wake of physical violence against him. When the official vote was taken on Nov. 14. 1955. the count was 98-3 in favor of the new town.

LoolllDg Out For Tbe Key Paschal's involvement with the new town did not

end there. When. in 1956. the then-town attorney. Glenn Berry (later recruited by the Arvida Corp.). informed Paschal that a lack of public interest threatened the success of the new government. Paschal and his wife started the first newspaper on the Key since elementary school children had published the Gulf Gale in the early ·40s. In an effort to keep the citizens interested in the doings of the Town Commission. the Paschals saw to it that every person on the Key got a copy of the Longboat Look-Out. In its five years of existence (during which. Paschal says. the paper lost $127.(00). the paper was alto titled just The Look­Out and the Key Look-Out. and was printed some­times with a slick cover and sometimes without. covering governmental. civic and social affairs on all of the area' s keys .

Cburcb In Tbe IIlnds And Hearts Today the Longboat Island Chapel occupies a

lovely building on the north end. But in 1956. the building w as no more than a dream and a hope in the minds of many citizens. But building or not. the Chapel was organized. meeting first in the Paschals' Wake Island studio. Approximately 20 people were present on that first April Sunday. A choir. an organist. hymnals and Bibles were added. and shortly thereafter. officers and trustees were elected. with incorporation not far behind. Every

Melanie and Guy Paschal relax at the luxurious Tropicana resort in pre-Castro Cuba, 1955. Residents of Longboat Key for only eight years, the Paschals played vital roles in organizing the Volunteer Fire Department, incorporating the town, founding the Chamber of Commerce and the Island Chapel, and publishing the Longboat Lookout to promote interest in the community. (LKHS)

45

Sunday a different group of residents conducted the service. making the Chapel a total community undertaking and another Longboat Key "first" in which the Paschals played a part.

PromodDg Loqboat 181 Although his name does not appear on the list of

even the very first officers in 1956. Paschal was also the prime mover behind the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce. As Paschal tells it. the post office began sending the Longboat Look-Out all the mail addressed to the non-existent chamber. On a fall morning. Paschal got the last letter he wanted to handle. and over a cup of coffee with Snooks Morehead and Nell Shenkel. he enlisted the first two members of the C of C . Telegrams went out that morning to the unknowing first officers who were out of town: George (Jud) Hird. of the Gulf Ranch resort. president; Herb Field. vice presi­dent; and Clyde Eagleton. secretary. Before the business day ended. all three had accepted. and yet another Key organization was in the works.

Since 1957 the Paschals have lived on a 26-acre ranch on the other side of Sarasota Bay. Their civic involvement. now in Sarasota and national organ­izations. has never ceased. They are missed on Longboat Key. but their imprint is ever present. When remembering the people of Longboat Key. Guy and Melanie Paschal will always be high on the list.

LIfe In The Vmage Was And Is A Good LIfe

There is a section of Longboat, on the north end of the Key, which bespeaks neighborhood: single­family, landscaped lots on small-town blocks; children laughing on spinning bikes, young mothers trailing with baby strollers; and older citizens passing on foot or bicycle to get their mail, or on their way for a swim in the Gull or the bay. This is the Village, once known as Longbeach Village. Much of the people history of Longboat Key starts here.

Three Weeks To Longboat Pat and George Cobb were in Iowa when Mrs.

Cobb's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Woods, moved to the Key in the early 1950s. Although Cobb was from Cape Cod, Mass., and his wife from Short Hills, N .J ., there they were in Iowa, and hating it. "So when my folks said 'Come on down,'" remembers Mrs. Cobb, "we made up our minds, sold everything in three weeks and moved down. "

That was December 1951, and at first the Cobbs stayed on Lido Key with their baby girl Susanna. They spent their first New Year's Eve in the area at the old Gull Ranch resort, where the Veranda is now. They moved to the Village in the early spring of '52 because there weren't any rentals available in Sarasota in season, and they've been here ever since.

When the Cobbs were first here, there were only three telephones in the Village, Mrs. Cobb

remembers, and a call to elsewhere on the Key was long distance. The Neil Ulreys then got a phone because Ann was pregnant. "There were a lot of us in our mid- and late-20s having babies," says Mrs. Cobb, and from those families grew a neighbor­hood filled with activity for all ages .

Nursery School CooperaUve Because of all the young children, a nursery

school cooperative evolved on Linley Street in the Village, at the present site of the Longboat Learning Center. Valla Walker was the first teacher, working three days a week for $35 a month. All the mothers pitched in - Snooks Morehead, Mary Wickersham, Carol Hager, Katie Strong, Charlotte Hewitt and Clare Franks, just to name a few - and after a year, the school was open for business five days a week. Yearly favorites included an open house, a Christmas party and the Spring Festival.

The older children left the Key at 7 a .m . for the long trip to school in Sarasota, until Longboat Pass Bridge reopened in the late '50s_ Because the Key was so much more isolated in those years with only one bridge, and even for a time thereafter, the parents and children of the Village became an extended family.

Blrtb or The Youth Center The Longboat Key Youth Center started as a

parents group, Mrs. Cobb says, out of the same needs which started the nursery school. By 1957, the center was incorporated. Says the 1957 Key Notes: "Longboat Key recognizes its obligation to

The sign says it all. The spirit of community was the heart of life in the Village. This late '50s photograph of the annual Aquarama shows residents gathered as spectators and participants in this gala event. (LKHS)

46

Postmasttr Helen Holt's home a t the corner of Broadway and Poinsettia was the center of the residenhal community on Longboat Key. The house, built in 1914, was purchased by Miss Holt's paren-rs, Major J. B. and Lillie Mae Holt in 1925. Pointed granite blocks were used in many of the ,dder houses on the Key. (LKHS)

its c hildren. In frUfilling this. the community has developed a youtt~ program of which it is very proud . It began wi h a small group of pare nts who ananged informallY sUJX'rvised group play fo r the ir c hildren . Oth~ ' I-s w ith a sens£' of public n~ ·

sponsibility h e lped b.£Oaden the scoJX! ... " The clubhouse faci lities included a TV. a juke

box . a r e frige rator ano,a stove . On the grounds was a volleybaU court - aillO used for badminto n and basketbaU - swings. l' sand box. and room for horseshoes . pingpong ond other games. Katie Strong supervise d the nrst-through-sixth-grade group. with special eVtlnts such as fishing contests. a Christmas party.l'.Uld a carol sing. There was a tennis class . a campinp. trip for the boys and a trip to a ballet or a play lor the girls . Walter Franks organized the teeEs in those days . planning weekly dances . special holiday dances and a summer square dance on the Whitney Beach tennis courts. No doubt there are some teen tales to tell of those soirees.

SwtmmlDg orr Tbe Pier The center's swimming classes were among the

most famous summer programs. Mrs . Cobb recalls that, again, the swirmning program began out of need: The nearest available classes were at Lido Beach and were only open to those 6 years of age or older. As the mothers had done for a day-nursery teacher recommendation, they called the Red Cross. Newly qualified water safety instructors Snooks Morehead, Patty Cobb and Mary Wicker-

47

sham - and there were others over the years -taught 58 people , from ages 3 to 73, in their second season at Community Pier. In addition to 227 teaching hours, the ladies arranged extra incentives such as post-class picnics and trips to the Lido pool.

Racing Prams The Cobbs' main interest was the much antici ­

pated pram fleet , which finally carne together in 1957, with 10 of the 8 -foot sailboats and from 10 to 18 children taking instruction over the summer. Funding was provided by Key advertisers who bought space on either side of the boats . Bob Little was the first director, and the kids eventually sailed and raced all over Florida. At one point there were 20 boats, Mrs. Cobb says, and they met on the water every Saturday. The kids sailed on the prams until they were 15 years old, then moved on to 17- or 18-foot windmills .

Tbe Fun or Fundlng Then, as now, the Youth Center - today called

the Longboat Key Recreation Center - r e lied on private funding. Jim Johnson ran a yearly auction , among other fund-raisers . The event the Cobbs remember with the most enjoyment was the annual beer party for the parents at the north-end fire house . The r e was a live band and dancing till the w ee hours . " Eve ryone w e nt," Mrs . Cobb says ; "you w ouldn ' t miss it! " " It was a big time back the n ," Mr . Cobb winks .

Good Old Days Not Missed By One 3D-Year Resident

The office of Herbert P. Field overlooks the sparkling waters of Sarasota Bay and the of ten­filled marina of The Buccaneer Inn. The interior has touches of the sea; ships' lanterns and brass clocks. These captain's quarters belong to Herb Field, the man who constructed the The Colony Beach and Tennis Resort, Far Horizons and The Buccaneer, and who sat on the first Longboat Key Town Commission in 1955. Field has been on Longboat Key for 30 years, and although there have been some rough seas, he does not regret his

Since DeSoto's landing in 1538, other celebrities have found their way to Longboat for rest and relaxation. Shown here are crooner Rudy Vallee and his wife on vacation at the Far Horizons in March 1959. (LKHS)

L

48

The Buccaneer Inn opened on St. Patrick' s Day, 1957. Seafarers could moor at Sleepy Lagoon Yacht Har­bor, savor a hearty meal at the Buccaneer restaurant and even choose a land­lubber's berth for the night if so inclined. (LK HS)

decades on the island. But neither does he pine for days gone by.

"There hasn' t been any definite period when people didn' t say, 'Oh for the good 01' days.' But the good old days w eren' t so good at all," says Field. "In relation they weren't so good. Sure , it was won­derful to walk. the empty stretches of beach. But there were mosquitoes and rats and water prob­lems, limited grocery facilities , no drugstore ... We didn't have a library, there were no banks, and while there was a good volunteer fire department, there weren't any paramedics and no ambulance service."

"No," Field says, "I don' t miss it . I think we just keep on making very good improvements on the Key."

Original Town Commissioner Continues To Have IDs Say

Having vacatIoned on the Key in 1945 and '46, Ridyard decided to make the visit here permanent in 1947. After a stay at the Longbeach Cottages on the north end, Ridyard headed back up to Grafton, Mass., outside of Worcester, sold his plumbing and heating business and put his Grafton house on the market. The house was almost 175 years old then, prime property after World War II, and was under contract in 10 days.

Rldyard landed here for gOOd m JUly, a oact. tune for mosquitoes back then, when only about 15 of the 40 or 50 permanent Longboaters dared to be in residence. He promptly headed out West for three months, but was glad to get back to his new home in the fall. He wasted no time in getting to know his neighbors and the issues which concerned them.

Ten lilies, 10 MInutes In those days, the south end of the Key still

belonged to the Ringling estate, and except for the skeleton of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, nothing in the way of building suggested life there. Ridyard re­members a sign, in the vi.:-mity of what is now the Sailboat Square office complex, which read: "Longbeach Cottages, 10 miles, 10 minutes ." "Back then, " Ridyard says, "you could actually do it ." The road in Sarasota County was cement - "or see-ment, as they said then" - and in Manatee it was oil-sealed.

Ridyard recalls the Cheerio Cottages on the Gulf, approximately where the Portobello is now at mid­Key, and says there was nothing else between there and the Village at the north end. The post office was a cottage on Broadway and there was a one-room county school on Linley Street built, some say, in the late '20s. Today the school is the home of the Longboat Learning Center.

49

Buccaneer innkeeper Herb Field (center) welcomes Longboat's first mayor, Wil­fred LePage, as the Bucca­neer's famed peg-legged doorman, Ranson , stands by. Field acquired his authentic pirate doorman when a friend, Jesse Ulrey, called and told him that a peg­legged man traveling with his daughter was about to be arrested for vagrancy. Re­cognizing a "natural," Field took one look and hired him on the spot, outfitting him in fine pirate style and calling him Long John Silver. (LKHS)

Other couples were also moving to the Village and elsewhere on the Key a t the same time as Ridyard and his former wife, Hazel. Among them were Ann and Neil Ulrey, H a zel and Ansel McMichen, Jane and Frank Allen, Lucille and Gib Herringshaw, Dorothy and W ill LePage, and

Howard Ridyard served as a town commissioner from 1955 to 1980, including three years as mayor and five as vice mayor . He is now chairman of the Town Code Enforcement Board. (LO)

Lucille Wld Eric Lundblad. Ridyard got involved in the newly formed Long­

boat Key Civic Club, of which Neil Ulrey was the first president. Newcomers joined prior residents in a support group dedicated to the welfare of the islWld. They met monthly at the schoolhouse Wld a Junior Civic Club also evolved.

According to a "Chronological History of Long­beach Village, " written by Lora Whitney, who moved to the Key in 1935 with husbWld, Gordon, Wld their children, " in the early part of 1950 it be­CBIIle evident that there was a need for some kind of control over future development ..... Ridyard became associated with Gordon Whitney Wld Sidney Carpenter in their effort to initiate zoning on the north end Wld was secretary of the original zoning committee.

SpotZoDIDI "There were getting to be a few more people on

the Key," says Ridyard, Wld we did it for our own protection. Basically, it was spot zoning; people mostly got what they wWlted." Guy and Melanie Paschal had moved to the Key by thdn Wld they were involved, recalls Ridyard. "Paschal liked to get things going."

In November 1950 the Longboat Key Zoning Or­dinance went into effect. Then, as now, the ordi­nWlce was not enacted without much hard work Wld controversy.

While the first zoning had applied only to the Manatee County portion of the Key, after incor­poration, zoning was applied to all of the islWld. The codes were not " stringent," Ridyard says. And the south end was still "virgin." "Zoning was

becoming more and more important," he adds, "and Gordon Whitney was a pillar on that issue."

Ridyard explains, " We incorporated to control our own destiny." He thinks development today on the island could be worse. "Things worked out better here on Longboat Key ... a lot better thWl Anna Maria. This is still a nice place to live."

The Arvida Corp. really chWlged the zoning picture on Longboat, Ridyard remarks, then reoalling Ed MarkhBIIl who purchased bayside property to build Country Club Shores in the early '60s. In the mid 70s, the Town Commission hired the first outside planning consultant, Milo Smith from Tampa, to help in the development of a master plWl. "It wasn't until 1974 that we really revamped zoning on the Key," Ridyard says. "Before that we could have had 70-story buildings."

Ridyard recalls some words former Commission­er Herb Field was fond of repeating:"There should­n't be anything built on Longboat Key higher thWl the tallest palm tree."

ZoDlDg With 'Teeth' Ridyard talks about the first 15 or so years of

dealirig with Arvida, who purchased the Ringling holdings in 1959. "The commission was different then," he claims. "Most of the actions were unani­mous. Everything was talked about Wld negotiated before a vote, so that by the time something was passed, it was seldom controversial ...

Discussing the zoning of 1974, Ridyard says: "We really put a lot of teeth into that zoning. We really stepped on Arvida's toes on density ... But we never went to court with them ...

Jones and Shenker s Delicatessen opened In t 942 on the downtown Sarasota site now occupied by the FPL bUilding The Shenkel lamlly then opened

the Sea Bird Beach Apartments on Longboat Key In 1950 DUring the ·50·s . the Key became more developed. but there was no place on the

south end to get so much as a cup 01 coffee Some 01 thc local reSidents asked the Shenkels II

they would open a restaurant The Town Commission was ecstatic and unanimously voted their approval Shenkers offiCially opened In 1959

Since then . Shenkers has grown In harmony and concert With Longboat. maintaining ItS relaxed atmosphere Shenkers IS the only restaurant on Longboat Key awarded the

MeritOriOus Food Service Award by the county health department. as well as numerous awards lor ItS co-op school program and menus Fans 01 Shenkers Include movie stars .

prolesslOnal gollers . Longboaters . and people Irom all over the country

50

Arthur Vlnlng Davis

A Baron In IDs 90s Put The Key On Resort Maps

Arthur Vining Davis was 91 years old when he announced, with customary flourish, the formation of the Arvida Corp. in 1958. The name derived from the first two letters of his three names. The diIninutive industrialist was just weeks shy of 92 when his corporation signed the papers giving it ownership of the 2,OOO-acre Ringling properties off Sarasota, including almost half of Longboat Key, for a total price of $13.5 million. At a Sarasota press conference shortly after the purchase, Davis remarked, "This is my last step. It is the best one. This is the best district I know of in the world. "

A survivor of the era of rugged individualists and industrial barons, Davis was the right hand to Andrew Mellon, the Pittsburgh capitalist and industrialist who left his mark in many fields; as a secretary of the U .S . Treasury, an art collector, a builder of corporations and a maker of fortunes . Together, Mellon and Davis turned the Aluminum Corp. of America (Alcoa), of which Davis was the chairman of the board, into the world's largest producer of aluminum; they thrust the Gulf Oil Co. into world prominence; and they founded banks and built huge empires.

When Davis "retired" in 1948 to a Miami estate, he was one of America's five wealthiest citizens. Quietly, Davis began purchasing choice properties in Palm Beach, Broward and Dade counties on the lower East Coast, until he owned more than 100,000 acres, becoming the largest individual land owner in the states.

'In BusiDess To Stay' Davis chose as Arvida's first president, Milton N .

Weir, who had already developed a number of luxury homes and commercial centers since his retirement as chief of Gulf Oil in 1949. A founder of three banks - the Delray Beach National, First National of Pompano Beach and Fidelity National of West Fort Lauderdale - Weir also developed the Pompano Surf and Palm Clubs and the Plaza Center, a large s\.!burban shopping center in greater Fort Lauderdale . Weir named as vice presi­dent and general manager of Arvida, his son, John .

Said Weir , soon after the Ringling purchase was announced, and work had begun on Arvida's $38 million Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club in Boca Raton and the $200 million University Park in Boca: "Contrary to rumor and speCUlation, Arvida was not formed to liquidate the Florida land holdings assembled by Mr. Davis ... By no means a liquidation concern, Arvida is in business to stay and anticipates a healthy growth trend ahead." Twenty-five years after the formation of the company, it would appear that Weir was telling the truth.

OuUook For Longboat The local transaction involved waterfront

51

Arthur Vining Davis formed the Arvida Corporation in 1958, ten years after he retired from an industrialist career that placed him at Andrew Mellon's right hand. In 1959, the Arvida Corporation purchased the southern half of Longboat Key, most of Lido and all of Bird, Cotter and Coon keys from the Ringling estate for $13.5 million. (LO)

property on Longboat, Bird, Coon and Otter Keys in Sarasota Bay and along the Gulf . The initial plans called for a $90 million development program of exclusive waterfront homesites, along with water and sewer facilities, hotels, motels, apart­ments and shopping facilities . The expectation was to add 12,000 residents to Longboat's population then of 1,200.

Reports in the May 28, 1959, Key Look-out said: "Business and civic leaders in the area not only foresaw immeasurable benefits from the Arvida Corp. program. but viewed the transaction also as a psychological boost for the effect it should have in stiInulating other investors and developers in this area.

"They pointed out that if Arthur Vining Davis ... has evidenced such confidence in Sarasota, this fact should 'loosen up' other capital projects in the area.

"The vast Ringling holdings which have lain idle for many years had been regarded as a stumbling block for development of the Keys . The Arvida program is expected to pave the way toward a sub­stantial new business boom ... "

The Arvida Corporation rapidly began development of its newly purchased island properties. This 1961 aerial photograph shows the progress made in dredge-filling and platting Bird Key, now an exclusive and beautiful residential community. (SCHC)

Longboat Key and Arvida officials met with state authorities in Tal1ahassee for approval of Longboat's bulkhead line (shown in black) in 1959. (LK HS)

52

This 1961 photograph extols the new 18-hole championship golf course cons tructed by the Arvida Corporation on the south end of Longboat Key. John Ringling's unfinished Ritz-Carlton still stands, along with its access bridge stretching halfway to Lido Key. (SCHC)

53

The Lido Beach Casino, built as a WPA project, was a favorite gathering place for residents and tourists alike. "Sun, Fun and Glamour" says it all. (SCHC)

un, Fun and Glamour

54

\J'I \J'I

Looking toward the Ringling Causeway and mainland Sarasota, St. Armands Circle in 1961 already displayed the graciousness which makes it one of Florida's premier shopping areas.

Mayor Sam Gibbon (standing) leads the ceremonies on February 20, 1971, marking the official opening of the Town Hall at its present site on Bay Isles Road. The site of the town headquarters was donated to Longboat Key by the Arvida Corporation. (LKHS)

Postmaster Helen Holt Serves Key In Many Ways

Helen May Holt became Longboat Key's eleventh postmaster on Sept. 11, 1962. Prior to that, Miss Holt was assistant clerk from July 1958 to February 1959, when she became clerk, and was named acting postmaster in February 1959.

Miss Holt first visited Longboat Key during the 1930s, becoming a permanent resident in 1946. Her house on Broadway on the north end is one of the oldest on the Key, dating back to 1914.

A past president of the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, Miss Holt served as the chamber's secretary for 15 years . . One of the original founders of the Longboat Island Chapel, she served as a lay minister, superintendent of the Sunday School and adult Bible Class instructor.

An avid follower of the Key's civic and political organizations, Miss Holt was named Citizen of the Year in 1976 by the Kiwanis Club of Sarasota Keys after she directed Longboat's Bicentennial festivities . In ad­dition, Miss Holt played an active role on the Key's Twenty-fifth Anniversary Committee. Over the years, she has participated in all aspects of the Longboat Key Community.

Miss Holt is the daughter of Lillie Mae and

56

Postmaster Helen Holt has guided the modernization of Longboat postal facilities. Her home at Broadway and Poinsettia was the center of town when Longboat Key was synonymous with the small village of Longbeach at the north end of the Key. (LO)

Maj . J .B . Holt who purchased their home on Longboat in 1925.

THEN ...

. .. and NOW

..... -_ "1 .. ~J .. J.

St. Armands Circle in the 1940s, shown in this photograph from the Longboat Key Historical Society, had grown little since John Ringling's efforts to develop the area in the 20s. Nevertheless St. Armands, Lido and Longboat keys had potential for the growth depicted in the recent aerial photograph below. John Ringling's dreams came true nearly 50 years later. (GWPC)

59

The Longboat Key Volunteer Fire Department has come a long way since the first fire station was built within two years after the fire at Sleepy Lagoon. Longboat now boasts a well-equipped facility on the north end of the Key as well as an auxiliary station on the south end.

KEY VOL. FIRE DEPT.

•

60

Gulf of Mexico Drive in 1955 looked more like a wide sidewalk than the major thor­oughfare it is today (below). Traffic flow then was not a problem, although the barren roadway invited speeding. (LO)

61

The dramatic growth of Longboat Key is easy to see in these two photographs of the lower mid-Key section. While some may prefer the untouched beauty of yesterday (above), there is no doubt that the amenities of development hold attractive advantages as well.

62

63

The second Longbeach schoolhouse was located on Linley Street and was in operation from 1938-39 to 1942-43. This early photo (above) shows Longboat youngsters displaying their coveted Easter treats. Today the schoolhouse is in use as the Longboat Learning Center, a Montessori approach school with a student population considerably larger than that of the old school, another indication of Longboat's tremendous growth.

64

Popular Retirement, Tourist Retreat Longboat Key today is appropriately de­

scribed as the "jewel of the Sun Coast," boasting 12 miles of white sandy Gulf beaches and 23 more miles of bayside bayous and canals. It is one of the most affluent retirement COmmUnItIes in the United States and is also one of the nation's most popular tourist retreats for visitors staying from one day to six mooths. In addition to superb recrea tiona 1 facilities -- golf courses, tennis courts, marinas and a bicycle and hiking path that extends the length of the island -- there are opportunities for business and educational gatherings, lectures, seminars and instruction in arts and crafts, sports and boat handling.

The Longboat Key Art Center is a focal point for artists of all categories and levels. Instruction is offered, and shows and sales are arranged frequently. Fairs, festivals, teas, suppers, dances and dramatic offerings pro­vide a wide range of social activities under the leadership of WiUiam Harcke, president.

For the more literary-minded, there is a wealth of resources in the Longboat Library in Town Plaza, a private corporation guided by a board of directors headed by Bonnie Fischer who has been president since 1982.

There are 80 volunteer librarians who take charge of circulating more than 14,000 books.

Worship, Cultural Centers Abound Five worship centers are now located on

the Key for the convenience of Roman Cath­olics, Episcopalians, Lutherans, and Jews, and the Longboat Island Chapel serves wor­shippers on a non-denominational basis.

Civic and cultural activities thrive in a multitude of clubs and associations designed to improve social, economic and ecological conditions.

Overseeing these matters is the objective of the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce which is dedicated to addressing those issues that affect the business, political and social climate of the Key. As Longboat grows, so will the chamber as an umbrella type of organization where all of the social, political and economic elements can meet to address the problems that will confront the Key, working through five basic committees: business affairs, communications, community affairs, government affairs and organization. In 1983-84 these committees functioned under the leadership of Richard V. "Doc" Lombardi as president and in 1984-85 under Douglas

Longboat . . ~armng Center

Masters level instructors from Cornell and Harvard in Early Childhood Learning Environments, Children's Theatre .

Preschool • Kindergarten • Primary Grades 1·3 383-4198 Supervised Study • Summer Day Camp . Computers

Creative Arts • Dance • Physical Fitness 575 Linley Street

67

The Longboat Library was founded in 1957 by Mrs. Leon Chambers and a group of dedica t ed volunteers. Today there are more than 80 volunteer librarians to oversee the circulation of more than 14,000 books. (La)

Riemer . Programs are carried out by Exec­utive Director John Drummey .

Ringling's Dream Comes True John Ringling envisioned the potential for

the island back in the 1920s, but adverse economic conditions thwarted his plans; construction of the grandiose Ritz-Carlton Hotel was never completed. It was Arthur Vining Davis who, aware of the validity of Ringling 's dream, saw years later that the time had come to put plans into action. In 1958, using the first two letters of his three names, he formed the Arvida Corporation and bought 2,000 acres of Ringling property, including almost half of Longboat Key. Today, those mosquito-infested acres of scrub pine and palmetto are now occupied by nine developments and two impeccable golf courses. There are still 180 acres of the Ringling property available for building.

Other farsighted individuals willing to risk some capital were beginning to buy land. Herbert Field constructed The Colony Beach and Tennis Resort, Far Horizons and The Buccaneer. His son, Tim , is president of The Buccaneer Harbor Club Inc. and Compass Developing Corp. which specializes in single­family subdivisions like Reclinata and Hide-

68

away Bay. Others have developed three dozen or more condominium complexes in addition to Arvida's holdings and another dozen or so resorts.

Accommodations Meet Demand All of these accommodations serve nearly

7,000 year-round residents and about 8,000 visitors during the height of the tourist season.

To assist owners of homes or resorts wishing to rent their facilities, and to help visitors find suitable lodgings for one night or more, up to six months, Longboat Ac­commodations, Inc . serves as a clearing house and broker. For the property owner, the agency arranges for housekeeping and man­agement services. During the winter of 1984, the company processed 400 resort reser­vations averaging $500 each and arranged 100 rentals averaging $3,000 overall.

Providing goods and services for these people constitutes the principal commerce on the Key .

Chief service occupations are banks and thrift institutions (more than a half-dozen), eating establishments (more than a dozen), shops of all kinds (gifts, jewelry, clothing, beauty salons, pharmacies, travel agencies) and professional offices, mostly grouped in

Town Plaza, Whitney Beach and several smaUer shopping centers. Real estate offices are numerous throughout the Key. The island boasts of its own newspaper, The Longboat Observer, published weekly from offices on Gulf Bay Road. To staff these establishments requires a substantial work force, three­quarters of which live off the Key, thereby generating a hefty amount of commuter traffic in additien to normal flow.

Police Tackle Traffic Woes The movement of traffic is one of the

major problems confronting the Key. Keeping the flow of private cars and commercial vehicles relatively smooth along the island's only two-lane thoroughfare, Gulf of Mexico Drive, is the concern of Police Chief Wayne McCammon. Three officers patrol the road and parking lots day-long. Maintaining high visibility deters potential law-breakers and enhances the security of property owners, Chief McCammon emphasizes. The depart­ment now has seven patrol cars, a motor­cycle, an aU-terrain vehicle and another with four-wheel drive; the last two provide easy traverse of beaches and bogs.

To keep pace with the demands of a 33-percent increase in population since 1973, the police department staff has grown from five officers and five civilians to 22 persons.

During those years, the budget has expanded from $90,000 to $614,000.

The fire department has experienced similar change and is on the verge of major expansion. During the six years that Chief Robert E. Fakelman has been associated with Longboat Key, the staff has increased from 15 paid personnel and a dozen active vol­unteers to 32 paid personnel; the need for active volunteers has been reduced to six.

Fire Department Expands Since 1978, when the Sarasota Fire De­

partment terminated ambulance service to the Sarasota County portion of the Key, and Longboat's subsequent assumption of service on the north end, which had been provided by Manatee County until 1982, two ambulances have been added for a total of three. The number of fire and rescue caUs increases by almost 100 a year. Last year the total was 1,262.

Needed now are a headquarters fire station on the south portion of the Key, an aerial ladder truck and a fire-rescue boat. The ladder would extend to a height of 100 feet, hoisting fire fighters in a bucket arrange­ment. The ladder truck now in use extends 50 feet. Currently there are two pumpers, one at the north end and one at the Town Plaza station. Staff size is not expected to increase

Longboat Key policemen stand proudly in front of their 1960s patrol car, displaying the equipment available for emergency situations. Since then, the Longboat Key Police Department has expanded to seven patrol cars, a motorcycle, an all-terrain vehicle and another with four-wheel drive.

69

The south station of the Longboat Key Fire Department on Bay Isles Road provides protection for the southern portion of Longboat Key. The department has come a long way since the days of the old Red Maria and is on the verge of another major expansion in equipment and facilities.

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70

by more than one or two persons as improvement in equipment and sharpening of personal skills will meet the demand in the near future.

Aside from major alterations in the skyline, probably no more dramatic change has oc­curred on the Key than in the postal ser­vice. The first post office opened in a small wooden building on the north end of the Key. Henrietta D. Tallman was the first post­master, appointed March 27, 1914 in what was then Longbeach; the name was changed to Longboat Key on February 1, 1958. In 1962, a sturdy concrete-block structure was complet­ed in what is now the Whitney Beach Seaview Shopping Center.

New Post Office Built Now that facility has become a contract

station, superseded by the new main post office that occupies a large, ultramodern building in Town Plaza, offering the latest amenities in convenience and service. The most noteworthy innovation is the capability of sorting and delivering mail by carrier routes. Previously, this was done in Sarasota, where carriers were sent out from the main post office, requiring much time to get the mail to residents on the Key. In 1962 Long-

boat Key received its own five-digit postal ZIP code; the new post office is ready for "ZIP-plus-four" codes.

All of this expansion has taken place under the supervision of Helen Holt, who has served in the Key's post office since 1958. She has been postmaster since 1962. Each year since then, she says the volume of mail has in­creased 25 to 30 'percent every year. The new post office will be adequate for more than 10 years to meet the demands of what she calls "the greatest customers in the world."

Planning Skill Required With Longboat rapidly "building up," no

department has a more crucial or sensitive job than that of Planning. Established for­mally in August 1983, the department is headed by Mark Gumula with Roger Paul as associate and Jodi Wisby, secretary. To­gether they are compiling facts and figures to assist the Planning and Zoning Board In

making recommendations to the Town Com­mission.

Recent studies show that the Key is now about two-thirds occupied in terms of devel­opable land. The remaining land has been designated for various uses to best serve an estimated peak-of-season population of 20,700 within the next few years.

With somewhat less than 780 acres that can be developed, planning must be done care­fully. With a growth rate of about 20 percent a year, there is not too much time. One consultant has estimated room for only 2,700 more dwelling units.

What kind of people are living on the Key? According to U. S. Census Bureau figures compiled in 1980, nearly half are 65 years old or older. The median family income is about $29,300, nearly double the median income in all of Sarasota County. The average value of occupied condominium units in August 1983 was $115,879, and the average value of other housing units was $124,466.

Longboat Key can be proud of its ultramodern post office in Town Plaza. This facility will offer the latest innovations in postal services, ensuring speedy delivery of mail to Longboat residents.

71

The Longboat Key Town HalJ was dedicated February 20, 1971, on a site donated by the Arvida Corporation. The Town HalJ houses the offices of the town manager, town clerk and other administrative officials, the Planning Department, Public Works Department and is headquarters of the Police Department.

72

The Mot e Marine Science Center on City Island offers the public a fascinating look at t he riches of the sea: plant and animal life.

Laboratory Aids Science In addition to the cultural and educational

opportunities on Longboat Key are the contributions to science made by Mote Marine Laboratory and Science Center located on City Island between Longboat and Lido keys.

Beginning as the Cape Haze Marine Laboratory founded by William and Alfred Vanderbilt near Placida, Fla., the laboratory leased land on the south end of Siesta Key from the Palmer Estate from 1961 to 1978. In 1965, William R. Mote, a native of Tampa who had spent most of his business career in New York and California, moved to Sarasota and became interested in the laboratory . In recognition of his subsequent close in­volvement and financial support and that of his sister Elisabeth, the laboratory was re­named in their honor in 1967.

In 1978 the dream of a new scientific research facility was realized when the lab­oratory moved to its present location on six acres of land, two of which are leased from Arvida Corporation and four from the city of Sarasota. It was in that year also that Dr. William R. Taft became president and chief administrator, bringing extensive experience which includes 15 years at the University of South Florida.

Science Center Opens Plans were soon begun for construction of

the Mote Marine Science Center which

73

opened in 1980. Ms. Susan Holderman is curator. There is an extensive educational outreach program, including an annual Sum­mer Science Program for teen-agers. The Sarasota County School Board has autho­rized courses at the center as part of the cur­riculum for third and twelfth grades.

The Science Center depends heavily on volunteers in implementing its programs. Both it and the laboratory are funded largely through donations to the Mote Marine Foun­dation and memberships in the laboratory .

The Mote Marine Laboratory has earned an international reputation for the quality of its research of the sea and its relationship to man and particularly for its pioneering study of the shark and its intensive study of the causes and control of red tide . Under the leadership of co-directors Dr. Richard Pierce and Dr. Kumar Mahadevan, the laboratory is committed to an exploratory role in helping to develop and apply new knowledge in bio­medical research and environmental assess­ment. It maintains community interest through unbiased monitoring of, and reporting on, the health of the natural resources which mean so much to our quality of life. Research of this kind, involving all the oceans of the world, is sure to result in discoveries useful for solving persistent health problems worldwide. There seems to be no limit on what studies will be needed in the future .

Key People Comment

HARRY KIRST Twice elected to the Town Commission and twice chosen by

fellow commissioners to serve as mayor (1983-1985), Harry Kirst has resided on Longboat Key for more than 10 years. He and his wife, Blanche Parnell Kirst, came to Florida from his native Buffalo, N.Y., where he practiced law and served as town attorney in Lancaster, N.Y., and village attorney in Sloan, N.Y. He was also involved in real estate development and built about 800 private homes in Buffalo suburbs.

On Longboat, he would like to have a cap placed on new development as he thinks the Key has about reached the saturation point of population. He notes recent additions of English, French, German and Canadian residents on the Key and welcomes this "new dimension of culture and community support."

Hamilton L. Dashiell

Harry Kirst

HAMIL TON L. DASHIELL "Activity" could be the vice-mayor's middle name. A resident

of the Key since November 1981, Mr. Dashiell was elected to his first term on the Town Commission in March 1984 and promptly chosen vice-mayor at the organizational meeting. During the previous two-and-a-haJf years he became an active participant in projects for the Longboat Key Club, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and The Longboat Key Art Center. He is the chairman of the Roadside Beautification Program of the Longboat Key Garden Club of which his wife, Dodie, is membership chairman, and is the town's representative on the Sarasota County Blue Ribbon Committee to negotia te redistribution of taxes.

He has been president of chapters of Rotary, American Legion, Red Cross, March of Dimes, several professional organizations and church trustees. In Maryland, he was a developer, builder and Real tor.

As a comparatively recent resident of the Key and newly elected to the Town Commission, Mr. Dashiell says he has not had time to formulate a definite program. He views the current status as one of transition from a philosophy favoring continued rapid growth to one seeking a slower pace "on a more orderly schedule."

75

CARLETON M. STEWART Beginning his first term as a Town Commissioner, Carleton

Stewart holds a master's degree in business administration from Harvard University and has an extensive career as a banker, having joined Citibank in 1947. He served in the bank's branches in Hong Kong, Tokyo, Bombay, Singapore and Manila and later assumed responsibility for the South Asia, Middle East and Africa areas of the bank. In December 1973 he was tranferred to London as senior Citicorp officer and also a director of Grindlays Bank Ltd. in London and Banque Internationale pour L' Afrique Occidentale in Paris. Moving to Longboat Key in 1981, he now serves as chairman of the board of The International Bank of Miami.

During his residency on Longboat, Mr. Stewart has been an active member of the Power Squadron and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary's Longboat Flotilla. He and his late wife, the former Alicia Dewar, chose to settle on the Key because of its climate ("even enjoy the summer heat"), its recreational resources, especially boating and swimming, and because they had friends in the area. Among his civic activities, he has been a member of the Code Enforcement Board since its founding.

Carleton M. Stewart

He would like to see the Key remain not greatly overdeveloped and favors increasing controls to prevent excessive density.

Caleb Batten

CALEB BATTEN Although he grew up on a farm in Isle of Wight County about

six miles from Smithfield, Va., Caleb Batten has been associated for most of his life with the U.S. Government since graduating from the University of Richmond with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science. Service in the Navy interrupted his work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 1942 to 1946 during which time he served in the South Pacific with the 10th Fleet. He left the FBI to join the Central Intelligence Agency in 1948 and continued there until 1973.

Having vacationed in Florida frequently, he bought property on Longboat Key in 1972 and moved permanently in 1974.

Member of the Longboat Key Club, the Bird Key Yacht Club, Kiwanis and Elks, and interested in community affairs, he was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Town Commission in 1981 by Claire Bell, who was mayor. He is active in All Angels By The Sea Church where his wife, Kathryn, is organist. They have two sons, two daughters and lO grandchildren.

"Longboat is one of the most beautiful areas in the region; few places compare with it, especially the cultural aspects of the region." He believes the Key has developed very well. "We're fortunate in having Arvida's interest." He views conditions today as better than 15 years ago in spite of problems of roads, sewers and conservation. He favors continued growth at a slow pace that will assure being able to provide facilities and public services.

76

GINNY PIER Longtime involvement in political matters and a lifelong

interest in people culminated in the election of Ginny Pier as a Longboat Key Town Commissioner in March 1984. Acquaintance with the Key began during a honeymoon trip in 1961 and in 1975 she and her husband moved permanently from Indiana. They renovated an old house in the ViBage on the north end of the Key and when that . was done, Ginny opened a card and gift shop, Pretties By Pier. To fiB the void after her husband died in July 1983 she decided to enter the political arena in addition to store-keeping.

Born in Tucson, Ariz., she grew up in the Terre Haute and Indianapolis area of Indiana. After graduating from high school she joined the Women's Army Corps and was assigned to military hospitals. Later came Army intelligence (G2) work in Vienna.

The war over, she entered coBege and concentrated in history, political science and general education, all listed on her diploma from Texas Wesleyan University.

She notes that "there is a lot to be done to improve this island that we love." She has pledged to support a growth-control ordinance that will program future growth and be fair to the people who live and work on the Key. She deplores the proliferation of costly legal suits against the town and advocates using money saved to begin action on beach preservation, "one of our most important assets," and for properly funding public safety departments.

SIDNE Y A. OCHS

Ginny Pier

For the last eight of the 14 years Sidney Ochs has been a resident of Longboat Key he has been a member of the Town Commission, serving as mayor and participating in many programs. He has served on the Board of Adjustment and Appeals and represents the town on the Sarasota Manatee Area Transportation Study Authority. His civic activities include service as president and director of First Longboat Harbor Condominium. He was the first vice-president of the Longboat Key Federation of Condominiums and also helped organize the Florida West Coast Federation of Condominiums. He is a member of the Advisory Board Council on Aging at Manatee Junior CoBege.

Sidney A. Ochs

Mr. Ochs brings to his work experience and training as a graduate engineer and lawyer. He retired after 25 years with Chrysler Corporation as senior patent attorney. He came to Longboat from Grosse Point, Mich., where he was active in municipal and community affairs. He is an active Rotarian, 32nd-Degree Mason and member of First Methodist Church of Sarasota.

He wishes to keep Longboat Key as a "desirable and wholesome community." He advocates a point system that would operate under building limitations imposed on an annual basis to control growth. He also favors the construction of a Key­to-mainland bridge and the development of public transpor­tation to serve elderly residents.

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CATHERINE G. FERNALD Involvement in civic affairs has been an ongoing concern of

"Kit" Fernald and her husband, Russell, for many years. It was a natural step for both to contribute time, interest and experience to the Board of Town Commissioners.

After enjoying the Key as a vacation spot since the early 1950s, the Femalds bought property in the mid-60s and moved permanently in 1972. Their longtime interest in turtles evolved into the Longboat Key Turtle Watch which aids loggerhead turtles in their attempt to lay eggs on the beaches and in protecting the newly hatched turtles. Mrs. Fernald is co­chairman of Manatee Save Our Bays, an environmental group concerned with making sure of sufficient water supply for the burgeoning population of the Key.

Both have also been interested in the Ringling Museums. Mrs. Fernald is a docent and Russ has been president of the Members Council. Both are also involved in alleviating the plight of migrant workers by spearheading collections of food and clothing for them.

Mrs. Fernald is a graduate of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, and received the Outstanding Alumnus award In 1972.

As commissioners, Russ earlier and Kit now, both have strived to treat all property owners equally. They share considerable nostalgia for the quiet, slow-paced island that Longboat Key once was.

Catherine G. Fernald

LEWIS POLLOCK Chairman, Planning and Zoning Board

Lewis Pollock

During the past 25 years, Lewis Pollock and his wife, Peggy, have become well acquainted with the Sarasota area and Longboat Key because Peggy's mother and aunt have been living in Sarasota. In 1973 the Pollocks bought a home on the Key and moved permanently from Chicago in 1980.

Dur ing the 25 years' residence in the Chicago area where Mr. Pollock owned a distributorship for advertising specialties such as pens, he served eight years on the planning commission in Highland Park, Ill. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, he prepared for his business career at Western Reserve University there and earned a bachelor's degree in business administration.

Married in 1942, the Pollocks have a daughter living in Los Angeles, and a son and granddaughter in Urbana, 111.

Mr. Pollock's civic activities include service as a guide at Mote Marine Laboratory and Science Center and participation in the Power Squadron. He has been on the Planning and Zoning Board for three years and says he thoroughly enjoys the work.

"Longboat Key is a lovely community, socially and esthetically, offering very comfortable living."

About development on the Key, he warns that although there is still some room available for expansion, great care must be taken not to overload during the next few years.

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DENNIS W. KELLY Town Manager

Although born in Enid, Okla., Dennis Kelly soon moved to Florida and graduated from high school in Fort Walton Beach. Then he received an associate degree from Okaloosa-Walton Junior College in Niceville followed by a Bachelor of Arts degree in government at Florida State University in Tallahassee, all capped with a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of West Florida in Pensacola.

After Army service in Hawaii, Mr. Kelly returned to Pensacola as senior account executive with an advertising firm, then served as management intern in that city. In 1975 he was regional planner for the Northwest Florida Planning and Advisory Council in Panama City, then went on to become city manager for Blountstown for four years and St. Cloud for two. He became town manager for Longboat Key in 1982.

In appraising the general status of the Key, Mr. Kelly notes the Key exemplifies the economic theory of "collective community" which receives from the private sector the services and goods it needs and wants and will tolerate coincidental growth which will be compatible. He sees the Key in a five-to-ten-year transition period in which it will be necessary to evaluate the island's "quality of life" and set standards to maintain it.

MARK L. GUMULA Planning Director

Dennis W. Ke1Jy

The Planning Department of Longboat Key was established on a full-time basis in August 1983 with Mark Gumula as director. He brought to that position 10 years' experience in planning and management, the most recent six as administrator of the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council in Stuart. There he had responsibility for coastal management, energy conservation and use, a state lands survey and mineral research, and development and implementation of a regional comprehensive plan.

Mark L. Gumula

Although born in Hammond, Ind., Mr. Gumula has been a Florida resident for 22 years and most of his education was obtained in Florida. After receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from the University of South Florida and two years' active duty in the Navy, he enrolled in Florida State University's graduate school and received a Master of Science degree in urban and regional planning in March 1974. He has published several professional papers on local government of spoil islands, coastal management and energy supply.

He is married to the former H. Carolyn Dobson, and they have two sons and a daughter.

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WAYNE C. McCAMMON Police Chief

The police chief's law enforcement career began when he joined the police force of Fair Lawn, N.J., after military service in Korea that earned him eight decorations, including the Purple Heart for wounds received. During the 11 years in New Jersey he merited the Distinguished Service Award for Valor from the Bergen County police Chief's Association. Then he spent two years as senior public safety advisor to the national police in Vietnam.

Returning from Vietnam, Mr. McCammon was attacted to Florida and joined the Crime Prevention Bureau of the Manatee County Sheriff's Department as sergeant-in-charge. A year later he went to Leavenworth, Kan., as police chief but returned to Florida after a year to become chief of Longboat Key police in 1973.

In addition to 27 years in law enforcement, Chief McCammon holds an associate degree in law enforcement from Manatee Junior College and teaching certificates for the state of Florida and the Police Officers Standards and Training Commission. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, U.S. Secret Service Digni tary Protection Course, California Specialized Training Institute, the National Crime Prevention Institute of the University of Louisville and numerous other courses and seminars.

The chief's hobbies are Scuba diving, boating, fishing, tennis and shooting. He describes Longboat Key as "the jewel of the Sun Coast."

Wayne C. McCammon

ROBERT E. FAKELMAN Fire Chief

Robert E. Fakelman

A man dedicated to a single career is Fire Chief Robert Fakelman. After graduating from high school in Rahway, N.J., he entered the Air Force and became a fire protection specialist. After honorable disCharge in 1965, he sold and serviced fire suppression equipment for a firm in Miami, then became owner and manager of Triangle Fire Equipment, Inc. in Miami, a 20-man organization. He started public service as a fire inspector in 1976 in Brooksville. He joined Longboat Key's Fire Prevention Bureau in 1978 as fire inspector-investigator and was appointed assistant chief in 1981 and chief in 1982.

With his training and experience, the chief is ready to tackle any new challenge. One of his biggest projects was the installation of protective equipment at Arvida's Harbourside Moorings, said to be the largest marina on Florida's west coast. One of the largest stockpiles of firefighting foam in the state is located there to protect the 273 boat slips. The underground tanks contain 200 gallons of foam. There are also three stand­pipes at each dock.

The chief has expressed pleasure with the progress of the fire department and the cooperation with the town's governing officials and developers. His highest praise is for the men who answer the calJs. "They go the extra mile and do things to upgrade the department which they would not be required to do."

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JOHN W. DRUMMEY Executive Director, Chamber of Commerce

John Drummey got his start in Hfe and in his business career in the Boston area. During high school and college years he worked as an office boy for McCready Tourist Agency. Following his graduation from the Bachelor of Business Administration program at Boston College and after service in World War II, he joined the company full-time and soon became owner.

After nine years, he joined Simmon Gateway Tours in New York as manager of group operations (domestic) and then went with SwissAir as passenger sales representative.

In 1962 he shifted to Trans World Airlines and in 1965 joined the World Wide Travel Division of the Cincinnati Automobile Club (AAA) as outside sales representative. Two years later he became director of sales for the club and remained until 1979. In 1980 he moved to Sarasota as director of membership de­velopment for the Sarasota County Chamber of Commerce and assumed his present position on Longboat Key two years later.

Mr. Drummey reports that during the past six years there has been a marked increase on the Key in the number of resort facilities plus homes and condominiums which has challenged the Key with a continued demand for increased goods and services. As an island, the Key must depend on the mainland to supply the necessities required to enable the business community to serve the people. He notes a harmonious spirit of cooperation underlying the interdependence which will assure continued economic heal tho

Doug Riemer

DOUG RIEMER President, Chamber of Commerce

Interest in resort accommodations began as far back as preparatory school days for Doug Riemer who is now operating Longboat Accommodations, Inc., a rental and reservations agency for Longboat Key properties.

During college days at Bucknell University, he worked summers and part-time at the Lake Placid Club and Wabeek Inn in the Adirondacks, and the Venice Yacht Club and Admiral's Wardroom in Nokomis, Fla. After graduating from the Master's program of Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration, Mr. Riemer managed security, housekeeping and personnel at the South Seas Plantation in Captiva. In 1976 he became front office manager of the Colony Beach & Tennis Resort on the Key and a year later organized and operated Arvida Corporation's first rental program at Seaplace and, later, Beachplace.

He has served on several committees of the Chamber of Commerce and as vice-president before being chosen president. He has also served on the town's Citizen's Budget Committee and as treasurer and president of Sand Cay Condominium Association after coordinating the transition of management from the developer to the association.

Married 10 years, the Riemers have two children.

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RICHARD V. LOMBARDI Immediate Past President, Chamber of Commerce

A desire for a career change for "Doc" Lombardi in 1979 resulted in a change of residence and Jife style also. After more than 20 years with a Boston advertising agency of which he was chairman of the board and chief executive officer, he and his wife, Lainie, moved from Marblehead, Mass., to Longboat Key. While working . toward his real estate brokers' Jicense, he continued to work as a marketing/ advertising consultant. Today he is vice president, director of marketing and a broker at Marion J. Smith Realty Inc. in Holmes Beach. Business and community interests drew him into participation in the Chamber of Com­merce.

He sees Longboat Key today as a unique blend of single-family Jiving, hotel and resort Jiving and condominium Jiving that "works as a community in spite of its diversity." There are neighborhoods each with its own look, style and interests, he notes. "Besides the appreciation of beauty, the common thread that seems to hold it aU together is the desire of the people for a quaJity of life style that is private but stiU offers opportunity for involvement, easy-paced but stiU active and lively.

As to the role of the Chamber, he says, "We have two basic missions. One is to be advocate for the business community ••• to maintain and enhance the business climate. The other is to work for the betterment of our community."

theCOPENHAGEN

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Richard V. Lombardi

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TOMORROW

•••

Growth Control Deemed Necessary What does the future hold for Longboat

Key? Can it be improved from its present halcyon state? Or has it reached its zenith and will require measures to slow decline?

Looking back over the last 20 years and the dramatic changes which have occurred, most residents and town officials agree that control of growth is essential, and the present tone and life ' style should be maintained. Regardless of differing philosophies as to how to proceed, it is obvious that the Key is rapidly reaching its limit of population from the standpoint of water supply, sewage disposal and transportation, particularly traffic on Gulf of Mexico Drive, the island's only thoroughfare. Then there is always the threat of severe storms which may require rapid evacuation from the Key and may result in extensive property damage and beach erosion.

How extensive the improvements in trans­portation will be are as yet to be deter­mined. There is talk of widening Gulf of Mexico Drive to four lanes. There is need for expanded bus service. There are proposals for building a bridge across the bay, and such a

link directly to the mainland will have a profound effect on the island.

Time To Stem The Tide Also having a profound effect is erosion

from Gulf and bay water. Shorelines con­stantly change from the onslaught of currents and wind-driven waves, and sand from one man's beach can soon end on a neighbor's seaside lawn a half-mile or more away.

Tackling the erosion problems now are a team of scientists from commercial com­panies, the Army Corps of Engineers and knowledgeable county and town officials. Donald Myers, a Longboat resident and marine consultant for a private company, has submitted a proposal which includes some of the recommendations of the Corps of En­gineers.

A t the heart of the proposal is the building of sandbars that would absorb the initial shock of Gulf waves and break up swirling currents that carry away sand from one place to deposit it in another. Sandbar formation would begin by submerging 6-foot-Iong sandbags, joined in groups of four to form a

MOTE MARINE LABORATORY

Mote Marine Laboratory in 1955

In 1955 Mote Marine Laboratory was established with Dr. Eugenie Clark as Direc­tor of the Cape Haze Laboratory at Placida, on Charlotte Harbor. In 1960 the Cape Haze Lab moved to Siesta Key, Sarasota and, in 1967, renamed Mote Marine Laboratory in honor of William R. Mote and his sister Elizabeth Mote Rose. The Mote Marine Laboratory has earned an international reputation for the quality of its research of the sea and its relationship to man; and in particular, for its pioneering study of the shark.

In 1978 the Lab moved to City Island

VISIT MML'S MARINE SCIENCE CENTER Featuring the Marine Plants and Animals of Sarasota Bay

Thirty-five aquaria and tanks , of varying sizes, display small and large fish , many species of invertebrates, small sharks and rays, and other animals and organisms native to Sarasota Bay.

Also, there are " Research-in-Progress" exhibits - interesting, informative display panels and exhibits keep visitors informed about the status of current resea rch projects.

Open Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 4 pm

Sunday 12 noon - 4 pm Closed Mondays

1600 City Island Park Sarasota, Florida 33577

Telephone: (813) 388-2451

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Snrasota Bay

grid, in at least 7 feet of water about 400 feet from shore.

Artificial Seaweed "Planted" The grids anchor woven polyurethane strips

5 inches wide and 6 feet long which extend upward and trap suspended grains of sand. The first installation, privately financed by The Beaches, resulted in the deposit of 5 feet of sand in about· two-weeks' time. Taking this as a sign of success, the proposal for the town recommends placing Sea Grid, the product name for the artificial seaweed, along a 12,600-foot stretch of beach.

Other parts of the plan include the Corps of Engineers' recommendations for a concrete revetment along 2,890 feet of beach in the Bayport area to protect Gulf of Mexico Drive. If the Corps of Engineers agrees to the artificial seaweed project instead of their plan for pumping sand from the Gulf to nourish beaches, the federal government will assist in financing the project. Cost to the town would then be somewhat less than $2.1 million, it is estimated. In many areas, sea oats and other beach-oriented plants will continue to be grown to hold sand dunes in place, and walkways will bridge them to prevent trampling.

Real estate and its development are among the primary concerns of Key residents. Where will the build-up end? Is it possible to prevent the kind of high-rise, high-density construction which has taken place in many other beach front communities, especially on the East Coast? Provisions of a compre­hensive plan for the town, drawn up in 1978, form a base for growth control.

Building Cap Protested Amendments recently adopted on recom­

mendations by a consultant hired by the town in March 1983 put an even tighter cap on building, even to the extent of "down- zoning" and preventing reconstruction of many edifices when damaged or destroyed. Such provisions have engendered protests and court action by property owners who see the value of their holdings greatly diminished or made almost worthless.

Meanwhile, plans proceed for completion of many projects and the beginning of several others, including razing and rebuilding the Far Horizons resort. It was originally built in 1956 by Herb Field, owner of the Buccaneer on the north end of the Key. The present owner, Jack Shire, has engaged the original architect, J. Edward "Tim" Seibert, to design

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a 71-unit condominium resort complex five stories high on 7.9 acres.

Mr. Seibert has also been engaged for another major project, the expansion of Town Plaza. On land owned by Arvida Corporation, plans call for constructing five buildings to the east of the present Avenue of the Flowers shopping center. The buildings will accom­modate 15 to 20 stores. There will also be a 10,000-square-foot "civic grove" for outdoor civic organization gatherings or band con­certs. A restaurant will overlook the grove. There will be space to park 192 cars, which will also alleviate crowded conditions in the present lot during the winter.

Shops To Serve Residents The shops will be of a type appealing to

Key residents but not so "special" as to attract shoppers from other areas, thereby reducing traffic to and from the Key, ac­cording to Arvida vice-president Tom Hale. A walkway and steps will connect the two shopping areas, and sidewalks and bike paths will provide access to the Town Hall area, library and post office.

As Town Plaza takes shape as a civic center, a survey by the Chamber of Com­merce shows Key residents favoring the con­cept of a community center for recreation­al, fraternal, civic, educational, training, cultural and entertainment activities. More than half the 1,166 persons responding think it should be built and operated by a non-profit community organization supported by contri­butions and membership dues. A steering committee headed by Cotti Johnson and Richard "Doc" Lombardi estimates that a multi-use building with recreational facilities could be built for about $2,185,000; a multi­use building without recreational facilities could be completed for about $1,273,000. What the results will be remain to be seen, but Key residents now have another new idea to consider.

Convention Center Proposed Other plans for a meeting place have been

proposed for Lido Beach. A group headed by Longboat Key condominium owner John Bassett, who is the principal owner of the Tampa Bay Bandits professional football team, and including actor Burt Reynolds, Bird Key resident Lloyd Muller and Donald J. Trump, chairman of the New Jersey Generals professional football team, is planning to tear down the Aku Tiki Inn and Sun Motel and erect a 17-story hotel and parking garage to

serve as a convention center. There would be meeting rooms for 2,000 persons, 67 suites and 297 sleeping rooms. Details and permits are pending.

Still more plans are under consideration. A restaurant and retail-office complex has been proposed for a three-acre site at the south end of Longboat Key about a quarter-mile north of New Pass bridge and west of Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The developer is the Masthead Corporation of which Neil D. Saunders is president and Michael Burke-Phillips is vice-president. The corporation is under contract with Arvida Corporation to buy the land, which is part of Arvida's Planned Gulf Development. Archi­tect is Edward J. "Tim" Seibert of Sarasota.

Two-Story Building Planned Proposed are a two-story building contain­

ing 22,904 square feet, including a restau­rant and lounge. These will be connected by covered walkways to a l3,289-square-foot area of retail shops and offices. A parking lot for 134 vehicles is planned.

A LOOK TO LONGBOAT KEY'S FUTURE

By Robert Wilhelm President of Arvida Corporation's

Sarasota Division

Longboat Key was once just a sleepy little village which provided its residents with few services or comforts. Today, it is a lovely community. As the island's major developer, Arvida has provided homeowners with quality living and exceptional amenities: two cham­pionship golf courses, 20 Har-Tru tennis courts, swimming pools and a full service marina.

The differences between today and to­morrow will be much less noticeable than the vast changes which have occurred during the last 10 years. As a matter of fact, Longboat Key will probably only get better, never reaching a peak in quality living. Since only a handful of lower-density developments will be completed in the next few years, we will never realize the aesthetic destruction on the Key which such places as Miami Beach have suffered.

Of course there will be some issues of concern in the upcoming years. What will we do to solve the ever-present problem of beach erosion? How can we best maintain and improve Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat's

87

Plans have also been presented to Longboat Town Commissioners for a new fire station to serve the south end of the Key. Possibly situa ted on property dona ted by Arv ida Corporation at 2162 Gulf of Mexico Drive on the Harbourside Golf Course, the station would replace temporary quarters on Bay Isles Road. Fire Chief Robert Fakelman has suggested duplicating the Cedar Hammock station recently built in Manatee County, thereby saving on estimates for architect's fees and construction costs. The station would encompass 5,385 square feet and would cost not more than $300,000, including furnishings, the chief estimates.

Traffic Speed-Up Sought There are no definite plans for four-laning

Gulf of Mexico Drive, but the Town Planning Department has listed recommendations for the thoroughfare as they become necessary. These include installing a signal light at the intersection of Longboat Club Road and add­ing turn lanes at 25 locations.

Robert Wilhelm

major thoroughfare? These issues, and others which may arise, can be ironed out if we successfully work through the government structures which we have created for this purpose.

We find the island's character is changing every year. Our community is choosing to lengthen its seasonal stays, and Longboat Key is becoming the permanent residence for many families. We believe that this is because of the quality of life which Longboat Key offers and which Arvida Corporation will continue to ensure.

The comprehensive plan for the island includes several statements pertaining to development and expansion. Commercially, to minimize adverse impact on residential quality, "commercial development shall be concentrated in strategically located areas having characteristics which best accommo­date specific land area, site, public facilities and market location requirements."

"Similarly, proliferation of strip commer­cial development shall not be extended. The existence of a commercial area on one corner of an intersection shall not dictate that all frontage must be similarly used."

Office Locations Set As for offices, the plan calls for en­

couraging use of accessible sites near major thoroughfares and including landscaping, screening and buffering to protect established or anticipated future residential areas near­by. Industrial development will be limited to such activities as storage, repair and main­tenance of boats and related principal uses. Standards are to be strictly maintained for managing emission of noise, air pollutants, odor, vibration, fire or explosive hazard, and glare.

As to types of housing, the plan encourages diverse structures which are affordable and will promote variety in available housing supply while protecting existing and future stable residential neighborhoods from en­croachment by incompatible land-use activi­ties.

"The Town shall continue to promote an increase in the availability of housing for low­and moderate-income households on sites serviced with a full complement of urban services through cooperation and coordination with the private sector." Planners concede

LONGBOAT KEY 20 YEARS FROM NOW

By Doug Riemer President, Chamber of Commerce

Longboat's foundation is solidly established, and its future will be firmly guided by our government in close and hopefully harmonious coordination with private enterprise. In 20 years Longboat should be a mature com­munity. Development will be complete and our major activity will be updating older structures. As the "south end" becomes an internationally recognized premier residen­tial/resort community, the "north end" will benefit from this prestige while maintaining

88

that "the unique character of the barrier island, the proximity of virtually all land within the town to the bay and Gu If, has escalated the value of land outside the reach of this market." They also note "the island has relatively poor access to the mainland where job opportunities are more plentiful and diverse."

Community Housing Urged The comprehensive plan also includes a

statement that "the Town shall promote community-based housing opportunities to meet the uniql,le residential needs of the elderly, dependent children, the physically and mentally handicapped, and the devel­opmentally disabled. To advance the pro­vision of foster care and group home facil­ities within the Town of Longboat Key, such facilities shall be classified as residential activities and shall be permitted in residential districts, subject to the specific performance standards of the zoning code and state cri­teria."

Under the plan, the Town is required to monitor and evaluate population and housing characteristics affecting trends in supply and demand. "This type of study will assist the Town in adequately forecasting future housing needs and impacts of new residential de­velopment proposals on housing supply and demand. The Town shall promote additional opportunities for single-family detached housing, realizing the sharply decreasing share of such housing types relative to the total housing mix."

With such guidelines as these to back a philosophy of slow and careful growth, Long­boat Key appears ready to meet whatever challenge the future holds.

the easy-going island ambience so important to Longboat.

Concurrently, the residential population, enriched by additional working and retired homeowners, will interact with Longboat's business elements. While retail and service will grow apace with residential development, resorts will face increasing pressure to evolve into residential uses. Both land values and government will direct Longboat away from tourism.

Hopefully, we'll have the vision and in­telligence to blend together to achieve a vibrant, well-balanced community enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.