October 23
1770 – The British Royal Navy’s HMS Carysford wrecked on the Florida Reef near Key Largo and gave its name to that part of the reef, though it would later change to Carysfort.
1936 – Dr. H.G. Breckenridge of the USDA inspected Key West’s cattle herds and found them to be fully healthy with no evidence of either Bangs disease or tuberculosis. It was the first time the island’s cattle had been found to be in completely perfect condition.
1946 – The Key West City Commission agreed to purchase the USO building at Jackson Square for $10,000. Many of the commissioners could barely hide their glee at the deal, as the building, its contents, and large lot were thought to be worth $40,000.
1962 – As part of the Cuban Missile Crisis, a military build-up continued in Key West.
1999 – Key West’s new Central Fire Station on North Roosevelt Boulevard was dedicated and named for the late Fire Chief Richard “Dickie” Wardlow.
Information compiled by Dr. Corey Malcom, Lead Historian, Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.
Image: Dairy cattle on a Key West street, ca. 1900. From the Mispah Otto DeBoe collection. Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.
