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Volume II of Epic Fires of Fort Myers chronicles four major blazes and half a dozen smaller fires that nearly scuttled the city’s transformation in the early twentieth century from a frontier cow town into a flourishing center of commerce, citrus production and tourism. Had the wind been blowing in the other direction or the volunteer firefighters been less courageous or tenacious, Fort Myers could have very well endured the same catastrophic destruction that Jacksonville, Gainesville and Key West suffered. But the true story that emerges from the following pages is a portrait of six men who collaborated to drag Fort Myers from its pioneer past into a present denoted by progress, prosperity and fast-paced growth.
As in Volume I, each chapter contains expert analysis of the fires and offers fire prevention and safety tips relevant to the present day. This instruction is informed by the extensive education, training and experience of the City’s fire marshal and current and past chiefs of the Fort Myers Fire Department.
More than a meticulously researched chronicle of the disasters that shaped Fort Myers, this book details the historical moment of each blaze, creating a rich portrait of a community forged and tempered by fire. A must-read for anyone interested in area history, with riches for newcomers and experts alike.
Amy Bennett Williams - The News-Press senior writer
Epic Fires is epic storytelling and a riveting read. The author’s exhaustive research has produced a book that is far from exhausting. It is a lively and fascinating look into little-known chapters of Fort Myers’ history.
Glenn Miller, President - Southwest Florida Historical Society
During our early days, not even our legendary families were safe from fire. This remarkably detailed look back at our past also holds many modern-day life safety and fire protection lessons - a true gift to our present and future citizens.
Randall P. Henderson, Jr. - Mayor, City of Fort Myers
