Tales of Old Florida Hardcover – May 15, 2008

As the description says, this is a collection of newspaper and magazine articles that illustrate life in Southern Florida in the late 1800s and the early 1900s. The quality of writing in most of these articles is amazing. Most read like a Hemingway short story (without the usually grim endings, however) full of lush imagery and wonderful tales of fishing, sailing, and hiking through the wilderness.There are stories that talk of Native Americans, old towns, near-deadly storms, and of relaxing rides down the Indian River. Having lived in Florida quite a few years ago this book took me back to the natural world that Florida was first known for (before Disney World and the night-life of Miami).Also, the book is peppered with wonderful illustrations (mostly drawings but some photographs) that add more life to the book.I totally recommend this book to anyone even remotely interested in Florida.5/5Also recommended: Florida Poems

I purchased my copy in Fort Jefferson while on a trip to the Florida Keys several years ago.I love this book so much, that I purchased this copy as a gift for a friend.If you grew up in South Florida....you will love this book. It is a compilation of short stories and actual articles from days long gone by...wonderful pictures from the late 1800's and early 1900's of old Florida.I keep it on my bedside table...several of the stories/articles I have read more than once.

Terrific reading. Collection of many stories, so there's something for everyone to like. Some print is super tiny too. Brings you back to the early Florida days, as seen through the eyes of early visitors. Many racially insensitive references, some may be offended, but that's just the way it used to be in early FL!

While some of the stories are too long, most hold your interest until the end. There are a lot of tarpon fishing stories (too many in my opinion), but there are lots of other stories that are fascinating. My biggest issue with the book is that the typeface varies per story (like they were scanned from original material) and some of the fonts are very small and would be hard to read by a lot of older people.

Excellent book, wish they offered on kindle……

I didn't realize that it would be articles written back in the day, i.e. 1880's and early 1900's. I love the illustrations showing old Florida, but find it hard to read the articles because of the style of writing for that time. However, if one were a serious history buff, then this would be fascinating reading.

The book is in very good condition and worth the price. Glad I found a copy!

Very good condition - like new. Nice shipping package.