Bay County

Images of America: Florida

by Eileen Cvitkovich

Populated by an abundance of wild game and fish, Bay County, Florida, once the home of various Native American groups, evolved from a series of sleepy little fishing villages along Saint Andrews Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. With such communities as Panama City and the early towns of Millville and Saint Andrews, Bay County has transformed itself over the decades, enticing millions to visit its sugar-sand beaches and to discover the rich and varied history the county calls its own. From the Civil War to spring break, the fishing industry to May Day celebrations, Bay County’s heritage is certainly diverse. Skirmishes erupted in the region during the Civil War, and the county became home to perhaps the only monument in the South dedicated to fallen Union soldiers. In early 1941, Tyndall Field was constructed and became the training site for actor Clark Gable. Communities throughout the county saw the construction of reliable bridges that brought an influx of residents and tourists into the area, and industries, such as fishing, timber, and turpentine, flourished through the years.

Genres: History

128 pages, Paperback

First published August 14, 2000

Reviews

[Darryl Updegrove · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like any history book, once it is written, it can only go out of date or require revision. With it now being nearly 20 years since copyright, not every statement made still holds true. However, a lot of good photos with captions that are interesting and worth the read. At right about 100 pages, roughly 200 photos to peruse.