What We Are About

What We Are About

The study’s purpose is to conduct comprehensive research on the history of The Blanche, a hotel in Lake City, Florida, and compile the findings into a non-fiction book. The author aims to delve into the social history of the hotel, including the notable individuals who stayed there and the events that took place. Additionally, the author seeks to engage with the community and gather contributions to support the publication of the book through a Publishing Fund. The study also involves exploring the challenges and obstacles related to researching historical places and times, as well as the preservation of historical documents and materials. Furthermore, the author intends to provide guidance on how to conduct research and locate valuable resources for historical projects, particularly focusing on Columbia County, Florida, and Lake City.

The author made several discoveries during their research and writing process. They uncovered a transcript entitled “The Social History of the Blanche Hotel,” which provided insights into the notable individuals who stayed at the hotel and the epic parties that took place there. Additionally, the author found pictures that inspired part of their story, depicting the inside of the hotel during a specific period. They also made progress in their newspaper research, uncovering information that fired their imagination and led to the creation of a historical fiction story set inside the Blanche Hotel. Furthermore, the author received valuable information from a Lake City Florida native, Linda Bennett Pennell, who shared stories about the Blanche, including the stays of celebrities such as Al Capone and Johnny Cash. These discoveries contributed to the author’s ongoing efforts to compile a comprehensive non-fiction book about the history of The Blanche.

Put Another Way

The document provides a detailed glimpse into the history and activities of The Blanche, a hotel in Lake City, Florida, spanning from 1902 to 1908. It outlines the guests who stayed at the hotel during this time, shedding light on the prominent individuals and visitors from various locations. The entries offer a glimpse into the social and cultural life of the era, as well as the professional and leisure activities that took place at the hotel. The document captures the diverse range of guests, including businessmen, politicians, travelers, and tourists, reflecting the hotel’s significance as a social hub and accommodation for various individuals passing through Lake City.The entries also provide insights into the activities and engagements of the guests, with mentions of legal business, professional visits, social gatherings, and leisurely stays. The document alludes to the hotel’s role as a center for social and professional interactions, offering a comfortable and accommodating environment for a wide range of visitors. Additionally, the presence of notable personalities such as politicians, businessmen, and travelers underscores the hotel’s standing as a preferred destination for a diverse array of guests, further highlighting its significance within the local community and beyond.Overall, the document presents a comprehensive record of the guests and activities at The Blanche, offering a valuable historical perspective on the hotel’s role as a prominent social and hospitality establishment in Lake City during the early 20th century. The diverse range of visitors and activities depicted in the entries paints a vivid picture of the hotel’s significance as a central gathering place for various individuals, reflecting the social, cultural, and professional dynamics of the time. This historical account provides valuable insights into the hotel’s role in the local community and its broader connections to a wide array of guests and their engagements.