New Map of the City of Orlando, Florida

Luring new residents to Orlando amid the Great Depression.

Though Florida experienced a huge population increase in the first two decades of the 20th century; a series of hurricanes, crop failures, and the Great Depression hit the state hard in the late 20s and 30s. This group of items reflects the extreme lengths taken by local communities to attract visitors and residents in the Sunshine State during that tumultuous period.

It includes a two-page typewritten letter with original envelope (postmarked 1936), mailed in response to an inquiry from a Chicago resident looking to possibly relocate. Written and signed by the Executive Secretary of the Orlando Chamber of Commerce, it reads (in part) – “We are delighted to have your inquiry concerning Orlando, and we are mailing you today our booklet, along with other pieces, descriptive of THE CITY BEAUTIFUL, which is said to be the world’s most beautiful resort city, and it is Florida’s largest inland center.” The text continues to discuss the favorable climate and cheap living expenses and even accounts efforts to correct a mistake with the local newspaper subscription.

The accompanying map of Orlando was designed by A. Clague and lithographed locally by Tn Cobb’s Florida Press, Inc. in 1935. It shows the location of various important buildings according to the legend in the lower right and includes a comprehensive alphabetical street index. The verso lists various apartment buildings in Orlando, facts about the city, and presents several photographs highlighting the natural beauty. The group of items also includes a double-sided brochure advertising for numerous local hotels.

Source: The Great Depression in Florida