THE FLORIDA QUEST |  |
Clues Corner - Week 2
Miko'sBrochure  |
 Yellow fever, a sometimes-deadly virus that threatened many settlers and natives in Florida, reached epidemic proportions during the 19th century. John Gorrie, a physician working in the Apalachicola area, discovered that patients suffering from yellow fever were more likely to recover when the weather was cool than when it was very hot. In 1851, Dr. Gorrie invented an ice-making machine that he used in combination with a fan, to help keep his patients cool. His cooling system was effective in controlling the spread of the fever. Apalachicola is a small town on the southern tip of Florida's Panhandle. The warm, friendly atmosphere of this fishing village reflects the true meaning of its name: Apalachicola is a Native American word that can be translated as "friendly people." | In the early 1800s, the town was established as an important port for the cotton trade. Fluffy cargo delivered by steamboats was transferred to ships bound for New England or even Europe. A scenic walking tour provides an interesting trip back in time as one walks past historic cotton warehouses and along the waterfront. The charming scenes found in and around Apalachicola have captured the imaginations of many artists. |