T H E   B E N J A M I N   C O L L E C T I O N

The Benjamin Collection was part of the "Mosaic Exhibit" in Miami before it was donated to the Micanopy* Historical Society Museum as its permanent home by Olga Moses Walker, the great-granddaughter of Simon H. Benjamin. Benjamin is noted for having constructed the first brick building in Micanopy in 1885.

Benjamin's daughter, Rosa, married his business partner in 1886. "The Micanopy Gazette" described in lavish detail the ceremony, what the guests wore, and their gifts.

This display includes portraits, an ivory headed cane, engraved china and silver, jewelry, and feathered fans from three generations of Benjamins. Next to the display are pictures of the Benjamin building when first constructed and as it looks today.

T R A N S P O R T A T I O N   D I S P L A Y

Transportation in the Micanopy area (1880 - 1920) is illustrated by the large sign advertising Hackney wagons. Additionally, there are parts of horse harness and a feed bag to be hung over the horse's nose.

Boat transportation to bring supplies and to ship oranges was prominent on Alachua Lake (now Paynes Prairie). Note the engraving of the steam paddle boat and learn what happened to the lake.

Railroads were being built -- see the surveyor's tools and check the warehouse model showing the spur track where freight cars could unload at the Thrasher Warehouse.

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