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Homeland Security, circa 1912 In 1918, during WWI, the city of Key West required that all individuals who did business along the waterfront carry picture identification cards as a security measure to guard against German saboteurs and sympathizers. Hundreds were issued, and the practice lasted until the end of the war. |
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One card-carrier was harbor pilot Peter A. Welters. A solid middle-class resident, Mr. Welters had started the Key West Coronet Band with his brother, Frank, and Nelson English in 1874. Soon to be known as the Welters Coronet Band, they brought the New Orleans-style funeral procession to Key West. As the "Champion Band of the State," they also played at weddings and social events. |
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A pass was also issued to Kingman Curry in his then-position as clerk for the Sugar Products Company. Within a few years, Mr. Curry would change his employment and become head of the baggage department for the Florida East Coast Railway and model-for-a-day in the previous story. |
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"News boy" Bernie Papy would grow up to be one of the island's most important and influential citizens. He served fourteen terms in the Florida House of Representatives. |
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Eduardo Gato received his identification card as one of the most successful cigar factory owners in town, and he regularly visited the docks to inspect tobacco shipments. His factory building still stands on Simonton Street.. Next: Fly to Havana |
