On Wednesday, March 18, the History of Diving Museum will host a member mingle and an “Immerse Yourself” lecture by Florida Keys historian Corey Malcom.
Attendees can learn about membership and upcoming programs at the museum before learning the history behind German naval forces in the Keys during World War II.
Malcom is the lead historian for the Florida Keys History Center, a section of the Monroe County Public Library tasked with exploring, preserving, promoting and making accessible the history of Monroe County. Aside from historical research, Malcom has conducted archaeological investigations of submerged sites throughout the Keys. He was awarded a doctorate by the University of Huddersfield (England) for his research into the shipwrecked Spanish galleon Santa Clara, sunk in 1564.
During World War II, German U-boats terrorized shipping and tested homeland defenses throughout the greater Keys. As significant as these events were, they were often kept out of the public eye and are not well remembered. Malcom’s presentation will explore the deadly activities of the submarines, the battles against them and the reminders of their presence that remain today.
Before “Immerse Yourself,” the museum’s member mingle will take place from 6 to 6:45 p.m. with light refreshments. Members of the museum who bring in new signups, as well as new members who join that night, will receive a free gift. The featured exhibit, “Dive Into Art: Stories from the Sea,” closes on April 15th. This art display showcases works from artists throughout the Keys, both from students and the Art Guild of the Purple Isles. Each piece was inspired by fantastic nautical tales from around the world, and many are available for purchase.
Those interested in attending the “Immerse Yourself” lecture either in person or online may visit divingmuseum.org to register. This session will also be recorded and posted to the HDM YouTube channel. This month’s Immerse Yourself sponsors are Bill & Janne Wissel and the Newton Family.
