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Henry Flagler and the Railroad That Built Florida

America’s 250th Anniversary

Join historian Christopher Daley for a dynamic lecture about how Henry Flagler’s railway didn’t just lay train tracks – it laid the foundations for Florida as we know it today. Registration required.

Travel back to the Gilded Age and meet Henry Flagler, the industrialist who, after co-founding Standard Oil, set his sights on the untamed coasts of Florida. Uncover the epic story of ambition, engineering, and resilience as Flagler’s crews battled hurricanes, swamps, and staggering odds to connect the Sunshine State. Hear how partnerships with pioneers like Julia Tuttle helped transform Miami from a mosquito-ridden outpost into a thriving metropolis. Explore how Flagler’s vision for luxury hotels and modern infrastructure turned Florida into America’s winter playground and a global economic powerhouse.

Christopher Daley holds a B.A. and an M.A. from Bridgewater State University in Political Science and History. He was formerly the President of the Pembroke Historical Society and Chairman of the Pembroke Historical Commission. He was also a docent at the John Alden House Historic Site as well as Coordinator of Educational Outreach. Additionally, in 2023, Chris retired from his position as history teacher in the Silver Lake Regional School System in Kingston, Massachusetts after teaching for 25 years.

Chris has written several articles on varied historical topics for local publications and has written his first book entitled "Murder and Mayhem in Boston: Historic Crimes in the Hub.” Chris has also served as historical consultant on the Sacco-Vanzetti Case for the Travel Channel's program "Time Traveling with Brian Unger." He also appeared in two episodes of the Travel Channel's "Kindred Spirits" in the capacity of historian on shows about the Lizzie Borden Case.

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