Thursday, February 14, 2013

ON THIS DAY IN:

1884E.O. Gwynn, a native of the Bahamas, died. He was one of the early cigar makers in Key West. He served as mayor of Key West from 1864-1867, 1874-1875 and 1881-1882.

1885 The 1885 Florida State Census showed the largest employer in Key West was the cigar industry, which had 2,035 workers.

1944 Dr. William R. Warren, 67, died of a sudden heart attack. He was one of the leading physicians of the city and had served as vice president of the First National Bank.

1955 The Rev. Walter Edwin Dakin, 97, retired Episcopal minister, died in St. Louis. He was the grandfather of playwright Tennessee Williams. He had spent winters in Key West with his grandson for many years.

1969 Ranger Jim Markette, in charge of the Fort Jefferson National Monument, spent some of his spare time fishing and made some remarkable catches. His most memorable was the largest Jewfish (Goliath grouper) ever recorded. Using a rope with an 8-pound fish for bait and a small tractor, he was able to land one that weighed over 850 pounds.

1975 The former Naval Station was dedicated as the Harry Truman Annex of the Naval Air Station. Former state Sen. John Spottswood was the main speaker.

1986Edwin L. Castro was named Key West fire chief.