Streets of Key West: A History Through Street Names

by J. Wills Burke

Simonton, Duval, Eaton, Whitehead, Southard, Truman—if you discover how these Key West streets, and all the others, came by their names, you will know much of the history of this little island at the nethermost end of the continental United States. You will learn of the rise and fall and rise again of the fortunes of this island town, which has played such a rich role in the history of the country as a whole. The author starts each section with an engaging history of the person for whom the street is named. Then he takes us along the street, pointing out the buildings and sites of historic interest along the way. This method builds and reinforces our grasp of Key West's history as the island is crisscrossed with sites that evoke nearly every aspect of its past. What emerges is a unique and quirky history of Key West, as well as a fascinating guide to wandering its streets, boulevards, alleys, and lanes.

Genres: Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Jennifer]

As a native Conch, I wanted more colorful stories about the history of the island. Instead, this was a pretty cut-and-dry explanation of the names. There were a few fun anecdotes, but mostly, it read like a textbook.

[Lisa James]

Very nicely done. Amusing, historically fascinating. For a lover of this quirky little island, & a lover of American History, it's a delight, & intriguing.

[Rona]

Key West, street by street. Probably better if you are there. As someone who has never been there, it was interesting about halfway, then got stale.

[Kent Mccoy]

This was an interesting book. The history of the streets and their naming was very informative.

[Amy Hoodock]

Great book if you are interested in Key West history. I read it toggling back and forth tween the book and a google map of Key West. Funny, informative, and went a long way toward answering for me what the outline of the island was in the 1800s.

[Patricia Baker]

always interested in history...living in Key West is an adventure and it is fun to find out how the streets were named...liked the lanes...would recommend this to other newbies to Key West