Creating a Legacy in the Florida Keys

Celebrating Women’s History Month.

Lamar Louise Curry was born in Key West in 1906 and moved to Miami at a young age. She taught U.S. history in Miami-Dade County schools for 35 years.

Ms. Curry had a positive influence in Florida on more than 6,000 students, many of whom became outstanding leaders.

Her family members were prominent landowners, but Ms. Curry chose to teach in public schools instead of enjoying a leisurely life of luxury.

The Curry family's legacy includes commercial developments, such as Buttonwood Bay in Key Largo, on which Ms. Curry imposed tight, conservation-minded deed restrictions.

On Sept. 10, 1991, Ms. Curry handed over the deed to the land that is now Curry Hammock State Park to the state of Florida. Thanks to Lamar Louise Curry, Curry Hammock's hardwood hammock remains intact for the survival of many species and the enjoyment of future generations.