James R. Anthony

Florida had been struggling to find its identity when James Rembert Anthony used his business acumen to help transform wilderness settlements into thriving cities. He documented his life as an astute businessman in an amazingly detailed series of journals. These historic records introduce us to pioneers, politicians, millionaire developers, and sketchy con men. In this book, you'll read about the heady days of Florida's land boom that spread like wildfire from Miami, riveting the entire nation's attention. Tens of thousands traveled to South Florida, hoping to buy a piece of paradise, which was the Florida dream. J. R. Anthony observed it all, working and profiting through the good times and moving on before the economic balloon burst in 1926. Anthony's story is much like Florida's story-a fascinating history lesson brought to life in vivid detail by the man who helped shape it.