Ocean Race Key West 1978

Lost and Found: In the 1970’s the sun soaked island of Key West was truly a sight to see. The nights were filled with laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses. While the sun dipped below the horizon, the island came alive with a colorful cast of characters – fishermen, poets, and drifters, and yes even smugglers – all gathered at the various local haunts like Sloppy Joe's and Captain Tony's. The air was thick with stories of pirate lore, shipwreck treasures, and bootleggers. It wasn't uncommon to find a songwriter playing his guitar under a palm tree, dreaming up the next island anthem. Unseen mariners of the night slipped through nearby waves in quiet defiance, their boats heavy with contraband bound for hidden coves and stash houses. It was no coincidence that Hemingway and other notable literary types called it home. Referred to by locals as, The Conch Republic, it was a place where every sunset was a celebration. We found this gem in the lost and found bin at the Key West Airpo