This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!
Southwest Florida’s barter coast and run boat lore
The excerpt recalls Punta Gorda as the hub of southwest Florida’s barter fishing era. Run boats served island fishermen from Sarasota to Key West carrying ice, supplies, and orders while fish company banks issued chits. Tales of dames, illegal drinks, and wharf life illuminate a rugged coastal economy and social ties along Alligator Creek.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Fred Farris
Sarasota
Key West
Everglades
Harry Goulding
Florida
Harry
Don Juan
Punta Gorda
Fish Company
Goulding
Fort Myers Beach
Tampa
Punta Gorda Point
Alligator Creek
Society
Railway Express Agency
E.W. Rountree