October 28

The shrimp boat Gulf Pirate II on the ways at Brito's Boat Yard, 629 Front Street, 1970s.

1860 – William C. Greene died at the Dry Tortugas. He served as mayor of Key West from 1839 to 1840.

1925 – The White Street Civic Association was formed by area residents with initial goals of widening the street and the construction of a lighted “White Way,” with all necessary electrical and telephone wiring installed underground.

1927 – Pan American Airways flew its first flight from the newly constructed Key West International Airport. Pilots Huey Wells and Eddie Musick, carrying 772 pounds of mail, flew the tri-motor Fokker to Havana.

1935 – The Works Progress Administration put 60 Key West men to work in collecting and disposing trash from around the island and beautifying Fort Taylor.

1954 – Actress Anna Magnani arrived at the Casa Marina Hotel for a few days of rest before filming began on the adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ play “The Rose Tattoo.”

1955 – Rear Admiral H.H. Henderson cut the ribbon to open the Key West State Bank. Howard Wilson, president and chairman of the board of the bank, spoke to the large crowd that attended the open house.

1975 – Treasure hunter Mel Fisher announced he had purchased Brito’s Boat Yard at 629 Front Street in Key West. He planned to recreate a “pirate village” from 300 years ago on the property, with his replica galleon alongside. There would also be an artifact preservation facility, gold and silversmith shops, and a cocktail lounge.

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Information compiled by Dr. Corey Malcom, Lead Historian, Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.

Image: The shrimp boat Gulf Pirate II on the ways at Brito's Boat Yard, 629 Front Street, 1970s. Photo by Don Pinder. Monroe County Public Library, Florida Keys History Center.