$2 Keys Sea Heritage Journal

VOL. 15, NO. 3 SPRING 2005 USS SHARK

OFFICIAL QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE MARITIME HISTORICAL SOCIETY Loss of the Steamship Valbanera

In the Wilhelmina Harvey Collection (see Society News on page 2) at the Monroe County Library is information and photographs from the Navy on hurricanes that we had never seen before. We may never know how the Harveys came by the file. Did C.B. (her Husband) save it when the Naval Station closed and the Engineering Office where he worked moved to Boca Chica or did the Navy give him copies for his duties as Mayor of Key West (1951-57 and 1961-1963) or did Wilhelmina come by the file when she worked in the Navy Yard or her many years in Monroe County government. The report that follows on The seaplane hanger at the Naval Air Station Trumbo Point damaged by the communication with the Spanish Hurricane of 1919. Photo credit: Wilhelmina Harvey Collection Monroe County passenger liner Valbanera during Library. and after the Hurricane of 1919 messages from the ill fated ship. the 1909 Hurricane was 84 mph. has been a subject of speculation The loss of the Valbanera with This goes in contradiction of the and has been missing for years. over 500 passengers and crewmen destruction reported from the storm Fernando J. Garcia Eckegogan, made the 1919 Hurricane the and shown in the photographs in who wrote the story of the loss of third deadliest storm to strike the the Library. Newspaper accounts the Valbanera in the Summer 1996 United States. The report does not reported 400 buildings were Journal, searched for the report in answer all the questions but does destroyed and 300 boats in the Washington and Spain. We searched end the speculation about radio harbor were totally destroyed. Even for the report in the National communication with the ship after later accounts of this storm put Archives in Washington and Atlanta the storm. the maximum wind at 94 mph with and found the Navy’s report on On page three is the Navy’s 6.13 inches of rain. So all accounts the Hurricane of 1919 which was report on the 1909 Hurricane. One make this a category 1 storm on the printed in the Fall Journal of interesting fact is the maximum Saffir-Simpson scale. The question 1999 but not the report about the wind recorded by the Navy during (Continued on page 14) Soceity News By Tom & Lynda Hambright

The Sea Heritage Journal is published quarterly. Subscription is available through Pam and John Viele. Photo credit: Monroe County Library. membership. Copyright 2005 by the Key West Maritime Historical The past few months Key West all volunteer staff. During the lean Society of the Florida Keys, Inc. and the Society have suffered tourist years of the 1980’s for the The art on the masthead, the USS serious losses with the deaths of slow summer months often meant Shark, was drawn by Bill Muir. many community leaders and her late husband, Colin, and Nancy friends of the Society. were the only volunteers. Editor: Lynda Hambright The Society lost a dear friend and So much has been written about Production:Tom Hambright one of our hardest working members Monroe County Monroe Mayor Letters and articles are welcome. with the death of Pam Viele in May Emeritus Wilhelmina Harvey who Please write to: Editor, Florida Keys 2005. Pam with her husband John died on May 3, 2005 there is little Sea Heritage Journal, KWMHS, P.O. had been with the Society since it we can add. She was truly a legend Box 695, Key West, FL 33041. was revived in the mid 1980’s and and it was our honor to call her a as John’s chief researcher had been friend and special honor for us to be Key West Maritime a part of the Journal since we began entrusted with the Harvey archives Historical Society 15 years ago. Until her illness Pam which she donated to the Monroe Board of Directors and John arranged, scheduled and County Library. These papers and did all the work required for our photographs range from early 1900’s President: Edward J.Little,Jr. very successful education program. to 2005. The stories in this issue are Vice President: Winifred Fryzel Pam will be missed by all and our Secretary: Corey Malcom from the collection plus some of the Treasurer: Lynda Hambright sympathy to John and the family. photographs, see the introduction to Nancy Jameson who we lost the story on page one. Shauna Cameron in April 2005 was serving on our We also lost City Commissioner Tom Hambright Board of Directors at the time of her Merili McCoy who was a loyal Mary Haffenreffer death. Nancy supported the Society supporter of the Society. A couple John Jones for years and most other nonprofit Sheri Lohr that quietly gave us financial Don Lowe organizations in Key West. She support and attended most of the T.J. McDermott was best known for her work with Society’s lectures and field trips was Julie McEnroe the Oldest House Museum which Mary and Ralph Bates. Mary died in William McKinley she ran for many years with an 2003 and Ralph on April 1, 2005. David Roumm John Viele New Member Hal Burrgert, Colleyville, Texas; Florida; Tony Skrebys, Michigan Robbie Hopcraft, Key West; Robert City, Indiana; Jean Thornton, Key N. Macomber, Matlacua Island, West.

2 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - SPRING 2005 Hurricane 1909 October 28, 1909 From Commandant of Naval Station Key West To Bureau of Equipment, Navy Department

Sir: In obedience to your No. 27906- 610, of October 15th I respectfully submit the following information in regard to the storm of October 11th. 2. On Sunday October 10th rain fell in frequent showers with light winds from the eastward. At 7 p.m. Sunday a telegram was received from the Weather Nichols Cigar Factory before and after the Hurricane of 1909. Photo credit: Monroe County Library. Bureau in Washington, as follows “Northeast storm warning 5 p.m., moving about E.N.E., afterwards 3 p.m. 29 mph North West Mobile, Pensacola, Panama City, it seemed to follow the axis of the 7. The wind was East and Applachicola, Garabell, City Keys, Gulf Stream. Southeast until 9 o’clock in the Rockwell, Tampa, Punta Gorda, 5. The U.S.S. Osceola was at morning showing that the storm was Punta Rassa and Key West. Tropical Tortugas Sunday October 10, and approaching and it was southeast of disturbance west of Havana moving the storm began to be felt there that Key West. northeast by north, with apparently afternoon, its center being west of 8. The wind came out more to the increasing intensity. Increasing south of Tortugas. The Osceola northeastward, showing the center northeast winds tonight along left Tortugas Tuesday morning to be to the southward. At noon both coasts of central and southern and arrived at Key West at 1 p.m. the wind shifted to the N.W. with Florida, and on Monday along the Tuesday. a raising barometer. At 1 p.m. when entire middle and east gulf coast. 6. Sunday night at Key West the barometer had fallen to 28.50, (Signed) Moore.” it was raining in torrents, but the its lowest point, there was a marked 3. Official meteorological data storm was not expected. After change of 8 points in the direction in regard to this storm has been midnight, from 1 a.m. October of the wind, showing that the storm kindly furnished me by the Weather 11th, the wind increased. By 75th had passed about due south of Key Bureau at Key West. The winds meridian time the following is a West following the axis of the and barometer charts are enclosed record of the wind that day. stream. The center did not pass near herewith. 2 a.m. 15 mph East enough to Key West to make the 3 a.m. 22 mph East 4. The track of the storm center “eye” of the storm visible. It was 4 a.m. 26 mph South East raining during the entire period in passed over Cuba, west of Havana, 5 a.m. 25 mph South East and as shown by the telegram, was 6 a.m. 29 mph South East torrents. No other cloud formation expected to take the usual course and 7 a.m. 30 mph South East was visible except heavy minibus strike the north shore of the Gulf of 8 a.m. 32 mph East clouds, very dark. Mexico. In this exceptional case the 9 a.m. 39 mph North East 9. At noon it brightened up a 10 a.m. 50 mph North East storm recurved to the eastward and little, showing a close proximity 10:05 a.m. 82 mph North East to the center. There was, however, passed along with the Gulf Stream 10:50 a.m. 69 mph North East through the Straits of Florida. It was 11 a.m. 69 mph North East no uplifting wind at Key West a storm of remarkable intensity but 11:05 a.m. 84 mph North East the houses that were blown over of comparatively small area. The 11:12 a.m. 74 mph North West having no foundation and not being track of the storm center passed 1:20 p.m. 66 mph North West otherwise anchored, but there was about 50 miles south of Key West 2 p.m. 63 mph North West (Continued on page 4)

SPRING 2005 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - 3 (Hurricane 1909 from page 3) nothing in the way of an uplifting force, showing that the center was fully 50 miles south of Key West. 10. The storm seemed to have traveled at the rate of about 20 miles an hour as it passed South of Key West. The strong winds due to the remarkably steep barometer gradient prevailed for about four hours with a wind force ranging from 50 to 63 miles an hour with its greatest force from 10:45 a.m. until 1 p.m. There were three periods when the wind reached a maximum velocity of 84 miles for 5 minutes, 82 miles for another 5 minutes and 80 miles at 1:20 p.m. 11 The storm was of no greater severity than is frequently experienced with blizzards, ice and snow on our New England coast during the winter, and there were no precautions taken against it as the buildings, except those of the Government, are very frail structures, and were blown down, but they have since, for the most part been set upright again. 12. The pilot boats Nonpareil and J.E. Jewett rode safely in the harbor at their anchorage; the pilot boat Magic cut away her spars and rode out the storm. The U.S. Army Engineers’ Dredge Key West was at anchor in Man of War Harbor drifted down on Navy moorings No. 5, in which her anchor caught and held her, after which she rode safely throughout the storm. The Mallory steamer Lampassas lay Duval Street after the Hurricane of 1909. Photo credit: Monroe County Library. alongside the Mallory wharf and was uninjured. The four masted Man of War Harbor but was not was too late in leaving and badly schooner Wilson, loaded with coal able to head up to the storm. She handled. She was blown back and at the William Curry’s Sons Co.’s is an old low power steamer with went ashore on Crawfish Key. If wharf carried away the bollards a maximum speed of 7 knots, and she had remained alongside Pier B on the wharf. She got a line to the she drifted on the N.E. edge of she would have suffered no damage Lampassas alongside the Mallory Frankford Banks in Man of War but this vessel, belonging to the wharf where she remained during Harbor. Army, was not under the control the rest of the storm. 14. The Army tug A.G. Force of the Commandant of the Station, 13 The Revenue Cutter Forward left Pier B at the Naval Station to although allowed the privilege of attempted to go to the moorings in go up into Man of War Harbor. She lying alongside the dock.

4 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - SPRING 2005 15. The Danish Bark Eber, lying in for the Penn Bridge Co., who shore of the Gulf. This storm is the the channel, dragged to the west side are building a new pier at Pier A great exception and the sensational of the channel and remained there under contract, rode out the gale press has grossly exaggerated the during the storm. The British schooner safely until the coal conveyor damages. F.W. Pickles, lying at anchor off Fort on Pier A was blown down. 23. The harbor is perfectly secure Taylor dragged her anchors and being The eye bolt supporting the and vessels that were properly broadside to the wind, she cut away mainstay of the rig broke, due handled and properly moored rode her fore and main masts leaving the to the wobbling of the pier, and out the gale without sustaining any mizzenmast standing, which brought the other supports gave way in damage. The crowded condition her head to the wind and she rode out succession, the coal rig was then of the fishermen’s harbor made the storm in the West Channel without blown down, causing the most it impossible to take proper any further damage. The steamer serious damage done at this precautions in that basin. Evelyn lay alongside the P. & O. Dock station. The Medford cast out 24. In regard to rules governing and rode out the gale without damage. from the wharf to get clear of vessels in Key West during a The Lighthouse Tender Mangrove the wreck of the coal rig and was hurricane, in case of a repetition of remained at the Lighthouse pier and blown down to Sand Key where such a hurricane, the very seldom sustained no damage. she went ashore on Western to be expected, vessels should take 16. The U.S.S. Massasoit remained Dry Rocks. The Massasoit extra precautions to secure their at her berth at Pier B. And sustained went down and brought off moorings if alongside the pier and no damage. One of the steam launches her crew and the ship has been if at anchor back their anchors moored at the landing in between the abandoned. and be prepared to steam ahead new fill sustained no damage. The 20. The wireless masts were against such a fierce wind. During anchor-bouy at the Naval Station, very much exposed but their the months of September and by Pier B rode out the gale without supports were sufficient and the October only may such storms be difficulty. The coal barges were only damage was the parting of expected, and special precautions anchored in Man of War Harbor. one of the antenna halyards with must be taken against winds from Nos. 149 and 150 drifted from their several other halyards chafed. the E.N.W. around N.W. since such mooring and were missing; No. 150 21. The newspaper reports hurricanes coming near Key West has since been located at Jaruse River, of the storm were grossly would invariably appear from S.W. on the north coast of Cuba, 25 miles exaggerated. The total loss of life with Easterly winds and would east of Havana. The other barges was only two persons instead of leave Key West through the Straits dragged in the harbor. 800 as reported in some papers, of Florida with N.W. winds. 17. The fleet of fishing boats and in others as high as 3000. 25. No tropical cyclone from were in a crowded basin on the north A careful estimate of the total the eastern end of Cuba would go side of the island and exposed to loss of property placed it at not against the prevailing forces of the the northeast wind. Many of them over $400,000, instead of over Gulf Stream and strike Key West were blown ashore by the force of $5,000,000, as reported. from the eastward. Such storms the wind and more or less damaged. 22. The last storm that did would be carried north along the Two schooners in that basin, names any serious damage to Key West coast and up to Charleston and unknown, were sunk and others very was on the same anniversary Hatteras. badly damaged, all very small craft October 11, 1846, and the fact 26. The storm that passes west comprising the fishing and sponging that the houses are so frail and of Cuba is carried to the north shore fleet of Key West. unresisting in Key West shows of the gulf only in the rare event of 18. During the entire storm the that the appearance of cyclones a storm crossing Cuba near Havana sea was comparatively smooth; the here is very rare. During the would tropical cyclone pass near shoals and flats to the northward and period that I have been here Key West. eastward gave a lee so that only the this is the only severe blow that force of the wind was left with no I have experienced. Cyclones Very respectfully, sea. rarely cross Cuba and even (S) W.H. Beehler. 19. The schooner Medford, lying then rarely come to Key West Commodore, U.S.N. alongside Pier A with sand and gravel but rather go towards the north Commandant.

SPRING 2005 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - 5 Top: Ruy Lopez Cigar Factory before and after the 1909 Hurricane. Bottom The Manuel Lopez before and after the 1909 Hurricane. Photo credit: Monroe County Library.

6 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - SPRING 2005 Navy’s Report on 1910 Hurricane U.S. Naval Station, Key West, Fla. principal damage was due to high before last, has suffered greatly. November 10th, 1910. water and heavy seas on the north The accompanying survey, plotted and east sides of the island; this year upon the plan of the Station, shows Sir:- to the same causes on the south and that there have been washed out The Board appointed by your west sides. The tide was abnormal, from behind the dike, about 9,000 order No. 3500-1910, of October reaching an elevation of 126.77, cubic years of sands and coral rock, 17th, 1910, (copy appended marked M.L.W. being 120.00, the ordinary while the dike framework has lost “A”), to investigate and report upon range of the tide being 1.25 feet. many thousand feet of sheathing the damage done to Government This height exceeded that of last and bracing, a number of piles have property at this Station by the year’s storm by almost exactly one been broken off, several pieces of storm of that date, after careful foot. creosoted sheet piling have been examination and estimate, reports 2. Grounds of Station. Except undermined, and there has been as follows: along the immediate water front, yielding of the west face for quite 1. The Storm. On Thursday, there was little damage done to the a distance, so that a part of this may October 13th, 1910, at about 1: grounds of the Station. But one tree have to be rebuilt. The surface of the 00 p.m., signals were hoisted on was completely overthrown, though fill, as far back as the west side of the Weather Bureau for heavy trees and shrubs suffered greatly the station buildings west of Front southeast winds, changing soon to from the wind and salt spray, which Street, was covered with debris and northeast, and then quickly back bent them to the ground in many refuse of every kind from seaweed again to those from the southeast. instances and blighted all the foliage to large timbers, the framework of Thursday night was very stormy; so and flowers. Perhaps the damage structures which had been thrown were Friday and Saturday. Sunday, most immediately annoying is the down by the waves. Just south of the however, broke quite pleasantly, sweeping upon the grounds along Station, Eaton Street was filled from and so continued all day. During the water front of large qualities the sea wall as far back as Front Sunday night the storm came back of debris of all kinds, sea weed, Street with seaweed, timber, boats, in greater force, growing worse all timber, and floating wreckage, so and all kinds of flotsam which the day Monday until about 3:10 in that a large mount of labor becomes sea brought in and left stranded. the afternoon, when it culminated necessary to clear this refuse away, 5. Northwest Dike and Fill. with a barometer of 28.46. From for the sake of cleanliness and North of Marine Railway slip, the this on the wind switched well to health. Especially is this true of the dike, a continuation of that already the southwestward, with a velocity seaweed, which rapidly becomes described, has also suffered much. estimated to be from 80 to 100 miles offensive of it is permitted to decay Up to Monday morning this part of per hour, bringing a very heavy sea along he shore. It is estimated to the protective work stood well there from that direction which completed clear the debris of all kinds will being but little wash back of the the destructive work already begun require the expenditure of $150.00. dike. The change of the wind from by the smaller seas of the previous 3. Water-Front of Station. The east and southeast to southwest four days. Monday night, late, the storm of October 13-17, 1910, brought in much heavier sea, storm practically ceased, though has shown beyond question, the however, and this swept away the there was a strong wind Tuesday. necessity of having a well protected sheathing back of the framework of Since then the weather has been water front along the entire Naval the dike, giving free entrance to the pleasant. The Storm of 1909 passed Station. Wherever this was present, waves, which quickly undermined to the southward of Key West, the the damage from the sea has been the bathing pavilion, wrecking it, wind changing from east to north nothing at all, or very slight; where and ate away the fill as shown upon with the movement of the center; it is wanting, the seas have swept the plan of the station, dropping the direction of the wind during everything that was movable away, the two launches which had been the storm of this year was first doing considerable damage. placed on shore for safety, as the southeast, veering to southwest 4. Southern Dike and Fill. South sand washed from under them, and as the center passed west of this of the Marine Railway slip, the dike place on its way north. Last year the completed, with its fill, summer (Continued on page 8)

SPRING 2005 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - 7 (Hurricane 1910 from page 7) wrecking the shore connection of the approach to Pier “B”. At this part of the dike there was no piling up of debris, as on that south of the Marine Railway, the only damage done being to the dike and fill. The fill lost amounts to about 5000 cubic yards. 6. The estimated cost of The north side of the dikes and dredge for filling in front of the Naval Station. Photo credit: Little White House. repairs to place the dike and fill in approximately the same condition upper hump which had drifted in, broken as to require renewal, while as before the storm is as follows: and was preventing the further there, yet in place, are more of less 8000 ft. B.M. 8” x 6” x 16’, equal driving of piles by the contractors. deteriorated, and should be spliced. to 316 pieces, Excellent results were being Several caps are unfit for use. Deck 7000 ft. B.M. 2” x 10” x 8’, equal obtained, and there was fair prospect plank is fast decaying. Repairs, all to 528 pieces, that a few more days washing would of which are by no means due to 2000 ft. B.M. 6” x 6” x 16’, equal have cleared away the hump entirely, the storm, which are absolutely to 48 pieces, the material being distributed on necessary to place the approach in 17000 ft. B.M. yellow pine either side where it would have serviceable condition at last until material at $35.00 per M. $595.00 been available for use later by the a permanent approach, such as 15 Piles, Y.P. at $15.00 each contractors as filling. The storm has been asked for in the annual $225.00 has refilled the washed out areas, reports can be appropriated for, are 12 Piles creosoted at $30.00 each and has besides brought into the estimated as follows:- $360.00 slip a large mount, estimated from 21 piles supplied and driven, 300 lbs. Galvanized iron spikes, a rough survey made, at 1213 cubic creosoted, at $35. $755.00 6” at $.035 per pound $10.50 yards, which has shoaled the slip as 5 piles, spliced, at $6.00 $30.00 200 lbs. Galvanized iron spikes, indicated upon the accompanying 7 caps to be replaced, at $15.00 5” at $.035 per pound $7.00 station plan. The Government has $105.00 Labor on lumber $175.00 to remove this material, and an Deck plank, floor joist, etc. Labor on sheet piles $125.00 understanding has been made with $150.00 Labor on creosoted sheet piles, the contractor’s agent that instead Total to drive and secure $300.00 of this being done at one time, with $1000.00. Bolts for wales and repairs the probability that recurring storms 9. Pier “B”. This was exposed $15.00 will again refill the cleared areas, it to the heaviest winds and seas. Labor on wales $85.00 will be under certain in connection Due to the meeting beneath it of Fill to original grade, 14000 with such refilling as the contract the direct waves and the backlash cubic yards, at $.50 per cu. yd. calls for, the contractor bearing a of these reflected from the coal $7000.00 part of the expense as the spoils as shed foundation, the concrete floor Totals far as possible will be availed of by of the pier was lifted and broken $7685.00 $1212.50 them directly for their own good. over about half its area. Where ever Aggregate The estimated cost of dredging due there was sufficient weight on it to $8897.50 to the storm is:- 1213 cubic yards of hold it down under the blows of the Contingent dredging at $.50 $606.50. waves, as under the new boilers of $102.50 Total 8. Approach to Pier “B”. This the Osceola, and beneath the coal $9000.00. already in need of extensive repairs, conveyers, or where coal buckets 7. Marine Railway Slip. was much injured by the storm. A were resting on it, there it remained In this, a few days previous to the careful examination shows that until intact; elsewhere, it was damaged so beginning of the storm on October it is repaired it is not in condition to as to require renewal. It is proposed 13th, 1910, the Government had be used. Twenty-one piles are either to make it heavier this time, and been washing out sand from the missing or so badly decayed or to lay it of stone instead of cinder

8 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - SPRING 2005 concrete, tying it to the supporting eye beams so that it will resist and upward thrust. Twenty fenders are missing or require renewal. The estimated cost is: 7000 ft. B.H. yellow pine, 16” x 16” x 16’. At $40. $280.00 23 bolts, 1” x 4’ with 2 nuts each and 2 washers $15.00 The south side of the dikes and dredge for filling in front of the Naval Station. Labor upon fenders $105.00 Photo credit: Little White House. 120 barrels Portland cement, at coal conveyor shall not fall through the wooden substructure of the coal $2.00 $240.00 their giving way, it is necessary to shed foundation is now exposed to 64 cubic yards broken stone or set these supports back again. This the attacks of marine insects, and gravel, at $4.00 $256.00 is estimated to cost:- radical repairs are at once necessary 40 cubic yards sand, silica, at For labor replacing struts to prevent their so weakening the $3.50 $140.00 beneath Pier “A” $50.00. timber as to affect the stability and 5000 ft. B.M. Y.P. lumber for 12. Lighthouse Pier. This was strength of the coal shed. The exposed forms, at $35.00 $175.00 damaged during the storm by plank and caps along a considerable 6000 Sq. Ft. wire fabric, at $.03 the Osceola, which pulled away extent of the circuit of the shed, $180.00 from her moorings alongside show that the limnoria has been Other reinforcement $50.00 the approach to Pier “B”, and at work, and traces of the teredo’s Nails, bolts, etc. $25.00 drifted with the wind against the presence have also been detected. Teams, labor for laying ect. lighthouse pier and storehouse, It is therefore recommended, as a $300.00 breaking out the corner of the latter, measure of absolute necessity for Total and tearing away a number of bents the preservation of the coal shed $1766.00. of the former. No accurate estimate foundation, that the entire shed be 10. Pier “B” Extension. Damage has been made of the damage done, surrounded with concrete sheet to this is only partly due to the storm. but it is roughly thought to be about piling backed by yellow pine sheet Through use and decay several of the $1500. piling, something in the manner in main parts of the framework were 13. Foundation of Coal Shed which the foundation of the new already gone or badly weakened. “B”. About this coal shed’s coal shed is protected, so that in case The repairs proposed include these foundation of pile and timber there of another hurricane, the wash of the as well as repairs which the storm has always been a berm of coral heavy surf against the concrete sheet caused. The estimate is as follows:- rock, into which sand has more piling will not be able to dislodge Material $100.00 or less washed, preventing access them, and uncovering the wood Labor $300.00 of the teredo and limnoria to the again. In addition to the uncovering Bolts $15.00 wood which would otherwise of the wooden part of the foundation Total $415.00. have been exposed. Of late years, along the margin of the area covered 11. Pier “A”. This pier is being as a more effective protection by the shed, the sea washed out more reconstructed in connection with during the moderately heavy blows or less sand from beneath the wood contract N. 1526 for Quay Wall, which have been experienced, floor at about tide level, so that it Pier, and Coal Shed, with the Penn the upper part of this berm has will be necessary besides giving the Bridge Company. A part of the old been covered with concrete. This protection recommended above, to pier, however, is still in use for the withstood generally the hurricane fill again beneath the floor that the support of the north conveyer while of last year, being more of less teredo and limnoria may not work the remainder of the new pier is protected from the waves, but that there. Along the west side of this being built. Under this a year or of October 17th was sufficient to coal shed the walk has been washed more age additional supports were remove the concrete for the most away except the projecting 12” I placed. Some of these were pushed part away from the building, and beams. This should be renewed to out of position during the storm, and sink it in deeper portions of the provide access to the doors of the as a matter of precaution that the adjacent waters. In consequence (Continued on page 10)

SPRING 2005 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - 9 (Hurricane 1910 from page 9) Building No. 11, Smith shop, tiles broken or gone; roof leaking shed. The estimated cost of repairs Manufacturing Department. About about hood. Repairs, $15.00. recommended is:- ten feet of ridge roll and a few slate Building No. 45. Pumping Renewing walk west side with gone; copper gutter off. To repair, Plant, Yards and Docks. One permanent support and concrete $20.00. hundred fifty tiles broken or gone; floor $400.00 Building No. 17, Supplies and sixty feet of galvanized gutter to 42000 ft. B.M. sheet piling, 3”, Accounts Coal Shed. Gutter off be renewed; five window panes at $35.00 $1470.00 south side, lying on the ground. To broken. Estimated cost of repairs, 400 concrete sheet piles, at $4.00 repair will cost $10.00. $45.00. $1600.00 Building No. 21, Equipment Building No. 48. Storehouse Belts $80.00 Shops. 600 tiles gone or broken, for Supplies and Accounts. Glass Reinforcement $80.00 and two monitors sashes gone in east leaf of door of attic, south Excavating old rock berm 500 entirely. To repair will require for end, gone; same of second story yds. at $1.00 $600.00 tile, $150.00, for new monitor sash, door, south end, cracked; one glass Driving piles, wood & concrete $15.00, a total of $165.00. tile and 75 clay tiles, also 25 feet sheet $1600.00 Building No. 29, Coal Shed “A”. of ridge roll, broken or gone; one Other concrete $350.00 Damaged by hurricane of October window pane south side second Filling $600.00 11th, 1909; further injury slight. mezzanine floor, broken. To repair Total $7000.00. Estimated cost of repairs, installing will require the expenditure of 14 Buildings. The buildings new gutters, $600.00. perhaps $30.00. of the Station were more or less Building No. 30. Coal Shed Building No. 49. North Latrine. damaged, mainly by the blowing “B”. Walkways on both bridges This has lost three window panes off of roof coverings and shutters, of conveyors torn loose. Repairs, and a few tiles, perhaps twenty. the breaking of glass in windows $100.00. Repairs, $7.00. and doors, the blowing in of sash Building No. 37. Yards and Recapitulation:- Repairs will and the like. Details follows:- Docks. Master and Workhouse. require:- Building No. 1, Offices, South door twisted; one shutter Building No. 1 Offices $6.00 Commandant and Paymaster. Hatch gone; new fastenings to door of Building No. 2. Condensing blown off; one square of slate blueprint frame frame broken. To Plant $28.00 gone; 45 feet of lead flashing to be make repairs $5.00. Building No. 7. Machine Shop replaced; three panes broken in a Building No. 39. Storehouse for $250.00 window. To repair $60. Oils. Roof leaking badly; no tiles Building No. 8. Offices, Building No. 2, Condenser Plant. gone. Repairs, $5.00. Manufacturing Dept. $15.00 Three hatches blown off; about two Building No. 41. Naval Athletic Building No. 9. Foundry $9.00 and one-half squares of tin shingles Building. Building badly twisted Building No. 11 Smith Shop gone. To repair, $28.00. at second floor and leaning out of $20.00 Building No. 7, Machine Shop. plumb. To repair, $50.00. Building No. 17. Coal Shed Two round windows in ends, gone; Building No. 42. Sailors’ $10.00 large door at the south end of shop Barracks. Wall of porch to be Building No. 21. Equipment blown in and broken badly; five replaced where blown in and away; Shops $165.00 hundred tile off roof and monitor; thirteen shutters to be replaced; Building No. 29. Coal Shed “A” two monitor skylights smashed; twenty feet of baluster railing gone; $600.00 machinery water-soaked. Estimated five tiles off the walkway roof; Building No. 30. Coal Shed “B” cost to repair, $250.00. three and one-half squares of roof $100.00 Building No. 8, Offices, covering gone; twenty-five panes of Building No. 37. Y & D Master Manufacturing Department. About glass smashed in various windows; & Workhouse $5.00 fifty tiles broken or gone. To repair, plastering on inside down in a Building No. 39. Storehouse for $15.00. number of places; one scuttle gone; oils $5.00 Building No. 9, Foundry. One and one window, south side, gone Building No. 42. Sailors’ shutter gone; doors blown in; four entirely. To make repairs, $85.00. Barracks $85.00 window panes gone. To make Building No. 44. Wireless Building No. 43. Wireless repairs, $9.00. Operating Building. One hundred Operating Building $15.00

10 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - SPRING 2005 Building No. 45. Pumping at the Station, or in Man of War bend near bottom of trunk where Plant, Y. & D. building No. 48. Harbor, exposed to the direct or stock joints the body of the rudder Storehouse, S. and A. building No. nearly direct action of wind and proper. The roller bearing on deck 49. North Latrine $7.00 wave. In consequence the damage was dislodged, but not seriously. Total for Buildings $1395.00. has been large, and yet cannot be One blade has been broken from the 15. Wireless Station. This worked estimated closely. The figures given propeller. The jacking gear has been through the earlier part of the storm, are such approximations as can be damaged. Other damages to the and until about 4:00 o’clock Monday made at this time. fittings of the vessel are detailed in morning, when the antenna carried U.S.S. Osceola. In commission, the list of repairs which follows: away from the top of the operating but under repairs. She was moored Remove 28 to 30 feet of bottom house, at once stopping the sending alongside the approach to pier “B”. guard, and make new section with of messages. A few were received, During the earlier part of the storm batten, bolts, etc. Labor, $300.00; material, $75.00; total $575.00 however, through a single wire led her moorings were shifted and Renew section of rail, 20 to from the top of one of the masts strengthened from time to time, 25 feet, with batten, etc. Labor, to the quarters of the electrician and additional lines led out, but $150.00; material, $50.00; total in charge, Mr. Keepers, who later when the change in the direction $200.00 succeeded in making a temporary of the hurricane came, and she Repair grating of fantail. Labor antenna from some of the hanging was exposed more directly to the $10.00; material, $5.00; total wires by which messages were sent sweep of wind and sand she broke $15.00 and received from vessels within a adrift and was blown across the Bow chocks, both sides. Labor couple hundred miles or so distant. slip to the shallow water beyond. $45.00; material, $15.00; total After the storm a much better Being very light, she lifted more $60.00 temporary antenna was rigged by or less on the bank, breaking it Awning stanchions. Labor and which communication was held down, gradually drifting against the material $50.00 with Washington. A modified form southwest corner of the storehouse Straighten one davit, take out, of the old antenna has since been of the Light-House Establishment, replace, ect. Labor and material installed which gives promise of and the wharf, where she hung $6.00 far better results than have hitherto grinding until she had damaged Repair controllers, broken before been obtainable. both to the extent roughly estimated springs & other parts. Labor $40.00; 16. Fences. Two hundred feet of $1,500.00. material, $20.00; total $60.00 of iron fence at the south end of the Careful examination of the fill, extending from Building No. 8 Galley stack, repair. Labor hull of the Osceola from within $10.00; material, $5.00; total to the waterfront, was blown down, shows the vessel to have suffered as also twenty panels of the similar $15.00 no apparent injury to the under body To replace one 18 foot dinghy fence, together with the concrete other than a few dents. The cement coping, on top of the retaining $500.00 in the bilges, which is only of To replace one 10 foot punt concrete wall on Whitehead Street, moderate thickness, does not seem north of the Sailors’ Barracks, $75.00 to be broken or to show any cracks. To repair life rail on top of cabin. Building No. 42. In other parts of The plating on the port side under Labor and material $35.00 the Station, back stops of the tennis the counter has received some dents, Straighten crutch for cargo courts are blown over, and the about six in all, which are visible boom. Labor $4.00 basket ball stations. It is estimated from outboard, and are of no great Renew locks, cabin doors. Labor that ir will require:- size or importance. No trouble has $2.00; material, $5.00; total $7.00. For repairs of fences, Building 8 been experienced with leakage, the U.S. Massasoit. This vessel to waterfront $30.00 vessel being as tight as previous to was at during the For repairs of fences, Whitehead the storm. The rudder and propeller storm, which she rode out lying at Street $50.00. were examined by a diver during the the pier near the Sally Port of Fort Other repairs noted $20.00 afternoon of October 25th, 1910. Jefferson. The pilot house received Total $100.00. The rudder was found unshipped, a severe shaking up. This structure 17. Yard Craft. These suffered with pintles corroded somewhat. was removed in part when the new greatly, being, whether moored The rudder stock shows a slight (continued on page 12)

SPRING 2005 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - 11 (Hurricane 1910 from page 11) boiler was installed about two years ago, and has been repaired from time to time since, but in its present state unsafe, and its rebuilding is recommended. The cowl has been lost from the ventilator. The roof of the deck house needs recovering with canvas, and some repairs to the woodwork should be made; these being due not only to the storm but to the effects of wear and use as well. The rail should be straightened, and a section of the guard needs renewing. These repairs are estimated to cost:- To pilot house, for labor Key West electric plant damaged by the Hurricane of 1910. Photo credit: Monroe $550.00; for material $200.00; a County Library. total of $750.00 $150.00. examination and recovery to start To place new cowl on ventilator Maine Cutter F-7, has its stern immediately makes it impossible to will require for labor, $25.00; benches broken, and one footing give a more thorough report at this material, $10.00; a total of $35.00 gone. To repair, labor, $25.00; To recover roof of deck house time. material, $5.00, total $30.00. and repair woodwork, labor, Ash Lighter No. 1. This lighter Whale Boat. Damages general to $200.00; material, $100.00, in all lies sunk at moorings to the west of repair which will take labor, $25.00; $300.00 the new fill in about 12 to 16 feet material, $5.00, total $30.00. To straighten rail and renew of water. This has been examined Coal Barge No. 114. This barge section of guard, labor $200.00; by a diver and is reported in such will need extensive repairs previous material, $50.00; total $250.00 condition as to preclude repair. Part to being moored again in Man-Of- Total $1335.00. of the deck has been carried away, War-Harbor. The high coal bin was Launch No. 355. This was sunk and the beams that are left and the partially removed so that the barge and destroyed at her moorings. frames are badly broken, as well as might present less surface to the Cost unknown. Her boiler can be that part of the hull that can be seen. wind. This precautionary measure saved, and possibly other fittings. Sand from the new fill has almost undoubtedly prevented the barge No estimate can be given at this completely covered this wreckage. from being lost. time. The lighter appears to have been During the storm the barge filled Launch No. 185. Was partly held by its moorings, and was more with water and lies with deck awash capsized on the new fill. Her stem than likely broken by logs and at moorings. The sea, in sweeping was broken, canopy frame bent, floating wreckage driven in by the over it, carried away nearly all and some holes were made in her southwest wind. of the remainder of the coal bin, planking. Estimated cost of repairs Ash Lighter No. 2. This lighter damaging it so that it will have to be $200.00. broke adrift from moorings, pulling almost entirely replaced. Coal Barge No. 7. This barge entire deck from the hull or body. The deck now shows the need capsized at moorings in Man of The bottom and part of the ends of extensive repairs, it being rotten War Harbor. It filled from seas that and sides were located on the South where the sheathing was removed in swept the decks, and now lies with Beach at the foot of Whitehead coal bin. This, however, is not due one side above water. The hoisting Street. This portion of the lighter to the effects of the storm. Fenders engine and water tank have in will be of no value, and repairs and iron battens are missing from all probability broken from their would not be practicable. one end and on the sides. fastenings. The lack of available Tug Floats, G. And R., were A rough estimate to repair is floats and tugs to enable work of injured to the extent of probably $1,000.00 for labor and material.

12 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - SPRING 2005 Great Gun Target will have to money. No. 37, Y. And D. Muster and be blocked up. A 175 pound anchor The New Jersey Foundry and Workhouse $5.00 was lost from the dock, and two Machine Co., estimate their loss No. 39, Storehouse for Oils stone anchors from the fill, also roughly at $1200.00. This incudes $5.00 lines used for moorings. their driver which has been found a No. 42, Sailors Barracks $85.00 Fittings of Yard Craft, Ect. Of long distance away where it drifted No. 44, Wireless Operating these many were lost, boat hooks, in the storm. If this is recovered, as Building $15.00 cars, anchors and chain, and fenders, it doubtless will be, their loss will No. 45, Pumping Plant, Yards in amount not ascertainable at be materially reduced. and Docks $45.00 present, as the items are discovered Bryan and Company, contractors No. 48, Storehouse for S. and A. only from day to day. for the concrete cistern, lost nothing $30.00 Large Line. The following lines by the storm. No. 49, North Latrine $7.00 were used in trying to moor the Dry Tortugas. At Dry Tortugas Total Osceola safely, and were rendered the hurricane was central, probably. $1,449.00 unfit for further service: Considerable damage was done Fences $100.00 250 fathoms of manila, belonging to buildings within Total for Station proper to the Osceola and at the waterfront. The two $21,536.50 2 7” manila hawsers, belonging coal conveyors of each coal shed Yard Craft to the Osceola blew down, wrecking them to an U.S.S. Osceola $1400.00 1 7” manila hawsers belonging to estimated fifty per cent of their U.S.S. Massasoit $1335.00 Yards and Docks original cost. Launch No. 335 value unknown 1 6”hawser belonging to the Special reports have been made Launch No. 183 $200.00 Massasoit. of this damage. Coal Bark No. 7 cannot estimate The estimated value of the above 21. Recapitulating, the loses, until wrecked lines is approximately $1000.00. where estimated, may be summed Ash Lighter No. 1, value 18. Foundations for Fuel Oil and as follows:- unknown Gasoline Storage Tanks. These were Grounds $150.00 Ash Lighter No. 2, value washed considerably, the materials Water front, Southwest dike unknown in the embankments being coral and fill, Northwest dike and fill Two Floats, C. & R. $150.00 sand quite recently thrown up, and $9000.00 Maine Cutter F-7 $30.00 not yet protected by grass. To repair Marine Railway Slip $606.50 Whale Boat $30.00 them is estimated to require labor to Approach to Pier “B” $1000.00 Total Yard Craft $3,145.00 the value of $100.00. Pier “B” $1766.00 Large Lines $1,000.00 19. Target Range at . Pier “B” Extension $415.00 Foundations for Fuel and This was entirely demolished by the Pier “A” $50.00 Gasoline Storage Tanks $100.00 hurricane. The loss is approximately Lighthouse Pier & Storehouse Target Range at Woman Key $1000. $1500.00 $1,000.00 20. Contractors’ Losses. Penn Foundation of Coal Shed “B” Total for Station and Bridge Company. The dredge and $19,837.50 Appurtenances $26,781.50. derrick scow combined of the Penn Buildings. No. 1, Officers and Bridge Co., was overturned at her Storehouse $60.00. Respectfully submitted, moorings; the sand pump recently No. 2, Condenser Plant $28.00 Frank O. Maxson purchased was broken, and the No. 7, Machine Shop $250.00 Civil Engineer, U.S.N. Senior machinery was lost overboard. At No. 8, Offices, Manufacturing Member. the other end of the new coal shed Dept. $15.00 the timber bulkhead retaining the fill No. 9, Foundry $9.00 W.H. Doherty was damaged, and a considerable No. 11, Smith Shop $20.00 Paymaster, U.S.N., Member. part of the fill which had just been No. 17, Coal Shed $10.00 J.J. Holden placed was washed overboard. No. 21, Equipment Shops & Chief Boatswain, U.S.N., Member. Roughly the loss is estimated a Wireless Plant $165.00 several hundred dollars, but more No. 29, Coal Shed “A” $600.00 Clifton Greewell in hindrance of work then the actual No. 30, Coal Shed “B” $100.00 Chief Carpenter, U.S.N., Member.

SPRING 2005 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - 13 (Valbanera from page 1) West tried to raise the Valbanera but on investigation I was unable to how did this storm produce so much but did not succeed in getting in secure any reliable information on damage? communication with her. About this subject. However, as the Cuban On page six is the Navy Survey three P.M. September 13, 1919, the Consul stated that he had such Board’s report to the Commandant operator on watch, Bennett J.L. (CE) rumor, I directed a Subchaser to on damage caused by the Hurricane Radio, USN, heard Morro Castle investigate the report, she sailed at of 1910, which for the Navy was call all ships and the Valbanera, 2:10 P.M. on the 16th and returned much greater than the 1909, while telling them to stand by and listen the following day. This boat brought most of the reports from the city in for the Valbanera, Morro saying the first reliable information of there show less damage even with higher “Think ECV is in distress”. No being a large ship on Half Moon winds. distress signals were received from Shoal, submerged, with two masts the Valbanera or from any other showing. A chaser was sent out From: Commandant Seventh Naval ship. When the Valbanera was to make further investigation and To: Secretary of Navy. working, her signals were strong chasers were sent back daily until SUBJECT: Loss of the Spanish and clear.” by Friday the 19th, officers reported Steamship Valbanera. 3. Both radio operators are that they saw the name Valbanera, 1. The subject of the safety of this very positive that they heard the when the water was smooth. vessel first brought to my attention Valbanera working on September 6. On the following day the on Saturday September 13th, when 12, 1919. The Radio Operator of officer who reported the two masted certain messages relative to the the Lake Winona overheard the schooner ashore on the 12th, went safety of the ship were received. ECV communicate with Morro on to the scene and identified the On Sunday, the Cuban Consul the morning of Tuesday September wreck of the Valbanera as the and other Cuban citizens, made 9, 1919. wreck he had reported on that particular inquiry about certain 4. Officers in command of trip. The discrepancy between the rumors of the loss of the ship, and Subchasers that had passed along the report of the chaser Captain and the requested my assistance in seeking Shoals and Reefs to the Westward Radio Operators was impossible to further information. On Sunday were directed to investigate what reconcile, one or the other must be and Monday nights messages were wrecks they saw, and a subchaser mistaken. broadcasted, seeking information was sent to Tortugas to investigate 7. Investigation and about this ship. the waters in that vicinity. The communication with Morro Radio 2.This inquiry led to investigation first boat that left Key West after Station, has convinced me that our and the following information was the hurricane was Subchaser No. operators mistook the call letters obtained from the Radio Station: 320 which left at 3:20 A.M. on ECY for ECV. ECY, the Infante “Key West Radio Station was September 12th for Tortugas in Isabel, was in the vicinity of Key placed back in commission at response to a call for medical West at times reported. eight 8 P.M. September 11, 1919. assistance on the Lake Winona. On 8. This would show that the The operator on the Mid to eight his return that evening the Captain A.M. watch September 12, 1919, reported seeing, while on his way EDUCATION PROGRAM Whitt J.S. Elec. 2c Radio, USN back about 2:30 P.M., in the vicinity SPONSORS states he heard the Valbanera, (call of Rebecca Shoals Light, a four $100 OR MORE CAPT. RICHARD G. BRIGHT letters ECV) working Morro Castle masted schooner above water and BETTY L. DESBIENS BUD DRETTMANN Radio (call letter M) all during the a two masted schooner, the hull of JOHN & BEATRICE DUKE MARY HAFFENREFFER watch, last number of message sent which was submerged, the masts TOM & LYNDA HAMBRIGHT DR. & MRS. RICHARD F. HNAT by the Valbanera to Morro being projecting. CLYDE W. HENSLEY number thirty-six. The last time JOHN H. JONES 5. On Saturday September 13th EDWARD B. KNIGHT Key West heard the Valbanera was TOM KNOWLES another chaser and the L.H.T. Ivy, RADM J.H. MAURER at eleven fifteen P.M. September ROSS & ANN MCKEE passed through these waters and BILL MUIR 12, 1919, when the operator on JOHN & KAY PLIMPTON did not report seeing anything of DAN & VIRGINIA PROBERT watch, Ludwig A. P. (CE) Radio importance, that could be connected LARRY & GRETCHEN RACHLIN MRS. WILLIAM SHALLOW USN, received a “QRU” from the with this ship. There were rumors ED SWIFT JAN & TY SYMROSKI ship,(meaning, have, you anything received of a large ship being for me) , about ten minutes later Key sighted to the Westward of Tortugas,

14 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - SPRING 2005 BUSINESS MEMBERS

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HERITAGE HARBOR TOURS Naval Air Station at Trumbo Point showing damage from the Hurricane of 1919. 201 FRONT STREET The railroad tracks are seen and in the back ground is Palm Avenue. The large KEY WEST, FL 33040 305-295-8687 buildings on the left in the background are the Army Barracks (today Peary HISTORICAL PRESERVATION SOCIETY OF THE UPPER KEYS, INC. Court). Photo credit: Wilhelmina Harvey Collection Monroe County Library. P.O. BOX 2200 , FL 33037 Valbanera had not communicated over part of the 3-1/2 fathom shoal, KEY WEST AQUARIUM with any station since Tuesday that she was bumped on the bottom #1 WHITEHEAD STREET morning before the gale, when a and began to leak, losing her smoke KEY WEST, FL 33040 296-2051 KEY WEST ENGINE SERVICE, INC. message was sent to the Morro stack and radio; that the heavy seas P.O. BOX 2521 Radio Station, overheard by the forced her around to her present KEY WEST, FL 33045 THE LANGLEY PRESS, INC. Lake Winona. It therefore seems heading, viz: about Southwest and 821 GEORGIA STREET probable that the ship went ashore broke the vessel in two parts, at KEY WEST, FL 33040 294-3156 MEL FISHER MARITIME HERITAGE SOCIETY during the hurricane. Her position the break of the bridge deck. The 200 GREENE ST. within six miles of Rebecca forward end points 12 degrees more KEY WEST, FL 33040 294-2633 MYSTIC SEAPORT Shoals Light which is a 14 mile to the northward than the after end. P.O. BOX 6000 light, would indicate that the Soundings about the ship show her MYSTIC, CT 6355-0990 grounding took place subsequent OLD TOWN TROLLEY to be lying in a hole on her starboard 6631 MALONEY AVENUE to the extinguishing of the light. side, angle of deck about 60 degrees KEY WEST, FL 33040 296-6688 This is reported to have been after FOUNDATION from horizontal; at a distance of P.O. BOX 500130 midnight of the 9th and 10th. The about 200 feet from the wreck the MARATHON, FL 33050 rate of advance of the hurricane water shoals to 3-1/2 to 3 fathoms; A.R. SAVAGE & SONS, INC. 1803 EASTPORT DR. was about 8 miles an hour, so that ahead at 400 feet it is 4 fathoms. TAMPA, FL 33605 813-247-4550 the center would be in the vicinity Close to the ship the depths are SEACAMP ASSOC. RT. 3, BOX 170 of Rebecca Shoals about 6:00 A.M. from 6 to 10 fathoms; the deepest BIG PINE KEY, FL 33043 872-2331 The center passed about forty miles being ahead. The port boat davits SEA STORE 614 GREENE ST. south of Key West and over Dry are swung in board, and lower block KEY WEST, FL 33040 294-3438 Tortugas, and to south of Rebecca of one fall in place and the strap of SOUTHERNMOST HOTEL IN THE USA 1319 DUVAL STREET Shoals being south of position another. KEY WEST, FL 33040 296-6577 of wreck about 6:00 A.M. on the 10. Up to the present time not SCHOONER WESTERN UNION 202R WILLIAM STREET 10th. The wind was therefore from a vestige has been seen of bodies KEY WEST, FL 33040 587-2715

Northeast to South and little west, or fixtures of the ship. The clear ST. LOUIS AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER CO. 3928 CLAYTON AVE. which would have driven heavy sweep of sea to the Northward ST. LOUIS, MO 63110 314-533-7710 seas on this exposed position from and Westward probably accounts WASHINGTON STREET INN 807 WASHINGTON STREET South and East. for this, though this part of the sea KEY WEST, FL 305-296-0550 9. It is thought that the ship has been passed over by craft of went ashore while heading on a different types. northerly and westerly course, that the wind and sea lifted her Benton C. Decker

SPRING 2005 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - 15 The Naval Air Station Trumbo Point showing the damage from the Hurricane of 1919. In the background the narrow strip of land is now Hilton Haven. Photo credit: Wilhelmina Harvey Collection Monroe County Library.

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16 - FLORIDA KEYS SEA HERITAGE JOURNAL - SPRING 2005