Ray, Bruce and Taylor, Bill [Photographers/Publishers]

Florida’s Silver Springs: Nature’s Underwater Fairyland [c. 1956–1958] [32-Page Glossy Souvenir Book]

The Technicolor Glory of Old Florida.
A pristine, 32-page souvenir guidebook to Florida’s oldest and most famous commercial attraction.

This mid-century view book captures Silver Springs at its absolute cultural zenith—before the arrival of Disney. Utilizing high-saturation color photography on premium glossy stock, the booklet documents the famous Glass Bottom Boats, the photo-sub portholes, and the lush tropical gardens. This is a primary document of the era when Silver Springs was the most-filmed location in the state, serving as the backdrop for Tarzan and The Creature from the Black Lagoon.

KEY FEATURES
+++ Format: 32-page stapled booklet; stiff, high-gloss wraps; 6 x 9 inches.
+++ Photography: Exceptional "Kodachrome" style full-color plates throughout, featuring the underwater scenery and the iconic "Bathing Beauties" of the springs.
+++ Dating Indicators: Features mid-to-late 1950s automotive styling in the background scenery and period-correct Sheath style swimwear on the cover models.
+++ Content: Includes maps of the springs, descriptions of the Seminole Village, and the Ross Allen Reptile Institute.

CONDITION
Fine -- Collector-grade condition. The colors are vibrant and pop off the page. No rusting to the staples; no vertical fold lines or pocket-wear common with tourist guides.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE --
Silver Springs was the pioneer of the "Underwater View," inventing the glass-bottom boat in the late 1870s. By the 1950s, it had become a global destination. This booklet represents the "Space Age" marketing of a natural wonder, using cutting-edge photography to lure the new class of middle-class American tourists.

SUBJECTS: Silver Springs History, Florida Roadside Attractions, Mid-Century Photography, Glass-Bottom Boats, Ross Allen, Ephemera, Souvenir Guides, Floridiana.

Item #21619

Price: $75.00