Key West Collection

When Dorothy Raymer retired from the Key West Citizen, the editor of the local weekly, Solares Hill, asked her to write about her crazier times on the island. He wanted articles longer and more colorful than the daily could publish. Dorothy took to her new task with a sense of humor, a large helping of mischief, and great insight to the Island City's social scene. This book collects 25 of those articles. Subjects as varied as guest rides on Navy submarines, legendary houses of ill repute, the author's close friendship with Tennessee Williams, beach nudity, street people, and Harry Truman offer a broad scope on recent Key West history. Included are a dozen images by noted photographer and mystery writer Tom Corcoran.

Dorothy Raymer received her Master's in English Literature from Ohio State University in 1931. She was a fixture of Key West journalism from 1949 until her death in 1982. She was a columnist and feature writer for the Key West Citizen, sketching past and present island scenes and characters. Her writing credits included book and entertainment columns for the Miami News and brief stints with other publications.