Brad Bertelli

Brad Bertelli is a respected historian, author, speaker, and Honorary Conch based in the Florida Keys. Since arriving on Plantation Key in 2001, he has dedicated over 20 years to researching and interpreting the history of the island chain. Brad has published 10 books, including his acclaimed series Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli (Volumes 1, 2, and 3), with Volume 4, The Great Florida Keys Road Trip, forthcoming. For regular updates on local history, you are invited to join the Facebook group “Florida Keys History with Brad Bertelli.” To learn more, please visit: www.bradbertelli.com.

KEYS HISTORY: HENRY FLAGER’S FAVORITE BRIDGE

Driving along the Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys, it is easy to have your sense of direction confused. When entering Key Largo and...

KEYS HISTORY: BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION CONNECTED A SERIES OF ISLANDS

When the first version of the Overseas Highway opened in 1928, it stopped at the end of Lower Matecumbe Key. It didn’t stop for...

KEYS HISTORY: STORIES OF FARMING, THE MOB & SHIPBUILDING ON PLANTATION KEY

The island is called Plantation Key because of the farming that once happened here. It started with pineapples planted by Capt. Ben Baker and...

KEYS HISTORY: RAILWAY PAVES WAY FOR A DRIVE ON THE STRETCH

When driving in and out of the Florida Keys, most people take the 18-Mile Stretch. It is usually the fastest route. Card Sound Road...

KEYS HISTORY: INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS BROUGHT A NEW ERA 

Several months ago, I was driving home from the Fort Lauderdale airport. It was late afternoon when I exited the turnpike and rolled into...

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