Miami History Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Munroes of Coconut Grove Oct 01, 2019

Show notes

A surname very familiar to those who study Coconut Grove’s early history is Munroe. There were two unrelated families with the same last name, and same spelling, that had a deep impact on the Grove from its onset. Today, Ralph may be the most well-known Munroe given that his home, The Barnacle, is a very popular tourist attraction in the heart of Coconut Grove. However, his friends, both namesake and others, were central to the early development of a community that so many admire today.

Ralph’s mother, her companion, and his uncle were also early movers and shakers in the area. Kirk and Mary Barr Munroe were internationally known writers prior to arriving in the progressive area that was briefly incorporated as a town from 1919 until 1925. Both were close friends but not related to Ralph. The Munroe family and friends set the tone for the early progress of Coconut Grove. This podcast will detail the connections to the surname of Munroe in Coconut Grove.

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Downtown Theaters in Mid-Century Miami Sep 01, 2019

Show notes

In the middle decades of the last century, Miami featured a vibrant downtown that served as the center of activity for daily life for residents of the growing metropolitan area. The central business district was a hub for shopping, dining and entertainment. Although only a few remain, the theaters of downtown Miami were a big part of this core of activity.

The theater district included Flagler Street and the adjacent area and featured theaters from three of the largest theater chains in the country. The Paramount movie studio built and operated the Olympia, Paramount and Florida theaters. Wometco constructed and ran the Capitol, Miami and Town theaters, while the Claughton chain operated the embassy and royal theaters.

Miami History Blog

Miami History Channel

History of Miami News Freedom Tower Jul 01, 2019

Show notes

The latest episode of the Miami History Podcast will tell the story of the Miami Daily News and the building that it occupied from 1925 until 1957, when the newspaper relocated to a new building near the Miami River. The tower was vacant for nearly five years when it was given a second life. From 1962 until 1974 it became the Ellis Island for newly arriving Cuban refugees.

During its time as the processing and welcome center for Cubans, it was renamed Freedom Tower. The building provided healthcare services and food for the immigrants that were arriving with not much more than the clothing on their backs. Many arriving Cubans fondly remember the reception and services they received at the Freedom Tower.

Miami History Blog

Miami History Channel

History of Fort Dallas Park Jun 02, 2019

Show notes

This podcast episode features historic Fort Dallas Park in downtown Miami. Once the core of Julia Tuttle’s estate on the north bank of the Miami River, it became a fine upscale residential area following her death. Harry Tuttle, Julia’s only son, platted out property that spanned from NE First Avenue to South Miami Avenue from east to west, and the river to midway between SE Third and SE Second Street from south to north. There were many one to two-story single-family homes in this downtown subdivision of downtown Miami.

Miami History Blog

Miami History Channel

Meetup: Brickell Family & Neighborhood

History of Coconut Grove & Hotel Mutiny

History of Miami City Cemetery May 26, 2019

Show notes

This podcast episode features the story of the Miami City Cemetery. Aside from a city’s history museum, there may not be a better way to learn about an area’s past than a walk through its oldest cemetery. The city cemetery on NE Second Avenue certainly tells the story of early Miami.

Miami’s signature graveyard has interred many of the city’s most important pioneers. From railroad men who were dispatched by Henry Flagler to the Miami River to develop the north bank, to opportunists that crafted their legacy during the early years of the city, many of Miami’s founders and contributors are buried in the city cemetery.