Page 15 - Carrabelle

and support facilities. A quarter of a million established as a working lighthouse and a
men were trained at the camp. For many replica of one of the keeper’s houses serves
it was the last stopover before going to the as a museum and gift shop.
Pacific or European theaters. The camp was The Carrabelle area is going through
closed in 1946. another metamorphosis, from a sleepy
After World War II, Jeff Lewis, a Florida fishing village to a vigorously growing
businessman, saw the potential in Dog economy for recreational boating and eco-
Island as a vacation area and paid $12,000 tourism. The area is filling with quaint shops,
for the island as a fishing camp. superb local restaurants, cultural and artistic
In 1952 the Crooked River lighthouse was venues, and community activities. Come
automated. Automation ended the need and see for yourself as we evolve and grow!
for keepers in In 1964, the Coast Guard
sold both keepers’ houses, and the buyers Historical Figures born in Carrabelle:
moved them from the site. One was lost by • John Robinson (aviator & activist) Born
fire, the other is privately owned. Due to the Feb 24, 1903
dedicated efforts of many local residents, • John Jordan “Buck” O’Neil (Negro World
the Crooked River Lighthouse has been re- Series champion 1942) Born Nov 13, 1911

© 2015 Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce 13