Realtyrama Map of Marathon in the Heart of the Florida Keys

Uncommon promotional map of Marathon, Florida published by a local real estate firm.

This charming map of Marathon was published in the late 1950s to promote tourism and property ownership on the island in the Florida Keys. Locations of interest, transportation options, and local businesses are noted throughout the plan, which is surrounded by photographs, a table of average temperature and rainfall, flowery descriptive text, and even a recipe for key lime pie.

The audience is encouraged to “come, live with us and PARK YOUR BOAT IN YOUR FRONT YARD!” The verso shows an inset plan for a new real estate development along the Grand Canal in Marathon; along with a business directory, FAQ, and suggestions for fishing trips.

Published in Marathon by Realtyrama around 1957, based on the ‘brand new’ high school and the lack of commercial air service found in the FAQ on the verso. The proprietor, Colonel Robert J Philpott, started the business shortly after returning from the Korean Was as a public information officer. Another edition was published slightly later, in 1959. Both are rare on the market.

Sources: Florida Key History, 1959 Example at Geographicus