From the collection
“Self Culture” book by John Blackie – red hardcover
This handsome red volume, gifted by Joseph Kitching to his grandson Stanley in 1895, reflects the optimism and self-improvement spirit that defined…
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Stuart History
The people, places, events and buildings that shaped our town, from its pioneer days to today. Each page gives a short answer first, then the full story with sources you can check.
Stuart History list
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Reuben and Margaret Frazier, pioneers
To appreciate pioneer life in the late 1800s in the region of what would be Martin County, contemplate the situation of moving…
From the collection
Telephone Black Rotary Dial 1950s
This sleek black rotary telephone represents the golden age of mid-century communication, when talking on the phone meant settling in for a…
Vignette
Businesses of Stuart prior to the 1950s
Although certainly not a comprehensive listing, a few of the more prominent or interesting businesses in Stuart, established before 1950, are presented…
From the collection
Brownie Holiday Box Camera
This cheerful Brownie Holiday box camera, still nestled in its original packaging with instructions intact, represents a pivotal moment when photography became…
Vignette
Recalling the Ocean East Mall and stores
Shopping centers, malls and plazas are abundant in Martin County, with a large variety of stores or specialty shops offering merchandise for…
From the collection
Army Song Book
This 1941 Army Song Book brought music and unity to American soldiers preparing for and serving in World War II, compiled by…
Vignette
Walter Kitching’s Trade Boat, Merchant
Pioneer settlers in the wilderness regions of southeast Florida in the 1880s, mostly scattered along the coast, were dependent on venturing by…
From the collection
Girl Scout Camera
This compact black box camera once belonged to a young Girl Scout photographer in 1950, capturing memories during an era when the…
Vignette
Eddie Miller’s Baseball School of Stuart
Edward “Eppie” Robert Miller, aka “Eddie” was an American professional baseball player, a shortstop who played for 14 seasons in the National…
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Triumph & tragedy of the Tyndall family
Edward Bruce Charles Tyndall, born May 1, 1858 in Middlesex County, England came to the United States as a single young man…
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Fire destroys Martin County’s structures
Unfortunately many of the fine homes, buildings and landmark structures in Martin County have been damaged or destroyed by fire, sometimes tragically,…