1941
4th of july on water?
Forget floats on Westward Drive! Back in 1941, Miami Springs kicked off its 4th of July celebrations with a truly unique spectacle: a boat parade! Starting at the NW 36th Street bridge, a procession of decorated vessels made its way up the Miami Canal, culminating at the swing bridge right here in Miami Springs. And who were the stars of this aquatic show, proudly sporting those Miami Springs banners? From left to right in the front row: Mary Frances Fulenwider, Joy Bickerstaff, and Grace Buckley. In the back row, we have Jackie McDonald, Dorothy Biggers, and Edna May White. Talk about making a splash for freedom!
1942
world war ii
During World War II, Miami Springs demonstrated remarkable community spirit. The Miami Battle Creek Sanitarium—later known as Fairhavens—was rented to the Air Transport Command and served as a vital recovery facility for military personnel. At the same time, Miami Springs Elementary became a hub of patriotic activity. Students, teachers, and the PTA operated a Red Cross dressing room, crafted surgical dressings, collected salvage, and tended a victory garden, while also serving as a training site for air raid wardens. These collective efforts underscored the town's unwavering commitment to supporting the war effort on the home front.
This 1943 photo features the Miami Springs Elementary School PTA principal and officers: top row (from left) Mary Kniffen, school principal Mrs. Era May Furr, Mrs. James, and Mrs. Elizabeth Madeira; bottom row Mrs. Hearh, Peggy Filer, Mrs. Madeleine Robinson, and Mrs. Gus Halwardson. Mary Kniffen’s husband, Walter Kniffen—who served as Miami Springs Chief of Police—was killed in action on February 23, 1945, during the Battle of Iwo Jima.
1943
A Secret Weapon in the Skies (Literally!)
Imagine this sight in 1943! A massive Curtiss C-46 Commando military transport plane roaring low over the peaceful Miami Springs Country Club. This incredible press photo is a powerful reminder of how Miami Springs, along with Miami International Airport, played a crucial and vital role in supporting the war effort during World War II. Our skies were truly buzzing with purpose!
