* Remembering bridge dedication - Dec. 1952
* Groveland Graphic newspaper, Christmas 1930. * SUPER History programs coming soon!
* History mystery -- where was murdered Groveland marshal buried?
* Christmas parade, a Groveland tradition
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Palatlakaha Creek Bridge was dedicated to historic Groveland leader 57 years ago
The L.D. Edge Bridge was dedicated on Dec. 26, 1952. Cutting the ribbon was L.D. Edge's granddaughter, Kathy Boyd, daughter of the former Joy Edge. Kathy is beside her grandfather, L.D. Edge. Others attending, included Florida Gov. Fuller Warren; State Highway Dept. Chairman Alfred McKeitchan, Mrs. E.E. Edge, and Kermit Clay.
 The L.D. Edge Bridge plaque as it exists today on the south side of the bridge of eastbound State Highway 50.
Many of you have crossed the Palatlakaha Creek bridge never noticing the small bronze plaque memorializing the dedication of this important passage. The bridge is actually named the L.D. Edge Bridge. At its dedication, exactly 57 years ago, the day was a festive one attended by many prominent Floridians. L.D. Edge, son of Groveland pioneer E.E. Edge, had already played a prominent role in Florida politics and is still the youngest ever Speaker of the House. Edge was called the "Father of the Department of Transportation" because of his leadership in directing major roadways, such as Highway 50.
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Groveland Graphic Christmas Wish
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The Groveland Graphic newspaper from Dec. 25, 1930, proclaimed "Merry, Merry Christmas" even though times were tough during the Great Depression, just five years after the Arnold sawmill had burned to the ground. Publisher and editor A. W. Newett was about to start a series on the history of the town. Underneath the Santa Claus graphic, he wrote: "More valuable than all material gifts, yes, more than great riches, is the goodwill and spiritual fellowship, one with another."
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Images of America: GROVELAND makes a wonderful gift for family, co-workers, clients, pastors, and teachers.
To order and pay by credit card or check, >>CLICK HERE or go to www.GrovelandHistory.org.
$23.53 = pick up at the Groveland Museum.
$26.94 = mail out of state.
$28.37 = mail within Florida. |
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We need more docents
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Please help us staff the museum for two hours on a Saturday of your choice. It's fun and educational.
To find out more, call Marie Padgett at 352-429-4318.
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Historically Yours |
Christmas Parade 2009

The Groveland Christmas parade is one of the town's most enduring traditions. This year's parade was held on Saturday, Dec. 12. Pictured above in period clothing from left to right are Gloria Fairchild, Dodie King, and Santa's favorite helper and historical society President Marie Padgett. * * * * * * * * * * *

The April 2, 1929, headlines of The Evening Reporter-Star, forerunner of the Orlando Sentinel, carried the shocking headline: DEPUTY SHOT BY PROWLERS AT HOME, DIES. The article detailed how Groveland Town Marshal Robert Smithwick was murdered by intruders who had broken into his home. Traumatized by the event, his widow and 5-year-old son moved away. Now the son is desperately seeking information about his father, including where he is buried. Can you help? >> CLICK for more details and photos.
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2010 HISTORY SERIES
The Groveland Historical Museum is sponsoring an outstanding series of programs during its winter season. Most of the programs are free and include a variety of subjects, such as doo wop singers, a decorated Tuskegee Airman and more. Here is a brief description. Go to www.GrovelandHistory.org for more details and to register. FEBRUARY (date TBA)-- Daniel Keel: The Tuskegee Airmen. FEB. 13 -- Jukebox, a popular a capella doo wop singing group, entertains with 1950s-60s music. MAR. 6 -- Clayton Bishop: The Real Florida? a postcard history. MAR. 13 -- Steve Rajtar: Historical Trails of Groveland-Mascotte and Lake County. Especially interesting for Scouts.
* * * * * * * GHS REUNION SET
GHS Alumni -- mark your calendars for Saturday, March 20 for this year's Annual GHS Alumni Reunion.You should receive a letter in January with details. To make sure you are on the mailing list, complete this online form. THANKS!
 Giving Tree
Honors Donors The Groveland Historical Museum honors donors with a laminated orange inscribed with their name on a wall-size tree at the museum entrance.
Groveland Historical Society, P.O. Box 761, Groveland, FL 34736. Suggested donations: $25 = single $50 = family $100 = business
Thanks to those who donated or renewed their support during the holidays!
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| Quick Links |
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GHS Alumni Web site
If you wish to view the GHS Web site, and haven't joined already, contact Deborah Whitmore Hicks at WSAdmin@myfamily.com, and she will help you register.
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