Meandering Around Town: Landmarks Honoring Gables Women

AN ADVENTURE IN WHICH A FORMER MAYOR CONTINUES TO SEEK THE “SOUL” OF HIS HOMETOWN

There have been – and are to this very day – many memorable women who have lived, worked, and raised families in this community. Additionally, there are many who have donated their time and talent to help make this a true “City Beautiful.” A few of these ladies have been honored by the city government (in some instances assisted by the Garden Club or Woman’s Club) with the dedication of parks, the posting of plaques, and the placement of historic markers.

It is said that “a picture is worth a thousand words.” If that be true, then please join me on this adventuresome photographic ramble across the city in search of various landmarks honoring 11 women who have contributed to the cultural, political, and philanthropic fabric of our community – the latest of which, the naming of a new park for former mayor Dorothy Thomson, was just installed in September. Let me challenge our readers to set out on your own adventure (by foot, bike, or motorized vehicle) to locate each of these markers and statues – a great way to experience some unique sites and sights around your hometown. Let us know if you find landmarks honoring other female personalities of the Gables which my wanderings failed to discover.

This column appears monthly by Don Slesnick, who served as mayor of Coral Gables from 2001 to 2011. For suggestions on where he should next meander in search of the city’s soul, email to: donslesnick@scllp.com.