“Come to Miami—easily reached and easily enjoyed.”
Promotional materials from South Florida between 1910 and 1950, progress from a city on the rise, through a hurricane that threatens it, then the resiliency of a city on the rise once again. The area quickly became a tourist mecca as a result of promotional materials exhibiting the many treasures this tropical wonderland had to offer. No detail was left unmentioned in promotional materials, anything to draw the masses to experience the “playground of the world.” Transportation availability, lounging information, recreation activists, property value, testimonies of rejuvenation, historical facts, climate comparisons with other major cities, and enticing pictures were successfully utilized in the campaign to attract home-buyers and vacationers. However, the tone of South Florida’s informational material changed with the devastation of the 1926 hurricane. South Florida’s blissful existence as a premier place to live and visit was threatened as its infrastructure laid in ruins. The hurricane destroyed the once opulent South Florida, specifically in areas of Miami, Miami Beach, Hollywood, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Moore Haven, Hialeah, and Hollywood.
Though the gruesome event claimed the lives of many and marred many buildings, South Florida’s spirit proved resilient and the exuberant call to visit came forth once again.
The map is a visual representation of the online exhibit, linking current South Florida landmarks to the brochures and pamphlets of the exhibit. The burgundy markers link to the pre and post hurricane promotional material and the thunderstorm markers link to the hurricane destruction informational material included in the exhibit.
Curated by Angie Soto with assistance from Jim Cusick
Designed by Lourdes Santamaría-Wheeler