Chautauqua in Florida

By Jeffrey Scott Maxwell

• 1885, First Assembly [Vincent, 41]  "The Florida Chautauqua, located in Western Florida, on the Pensacola and Atlantic Railway, about eighty miles from Tallahassee, and about the same distance from Pensacola.  It is on a high ridge of land, three hundred feet above the level of the Gulf of Mexico, which is twenty-four miles away.  Two hundred and eight acres surround a beautiful lake, a mile in circumference, and sixty feet in depth, the water being clear and pure, and the beach of hard white sand.  The Southern pine, oak, magnolia, and bay grow on the grounds.  There is a tabernacle which will seat twenty-five hundred persons.  There are also buildings for cooking-school, kindergarten, and young people's headquarters, and a large two-story building with assembly-room and class-rooms.  The 'Hotel Chautauqua' is a large and comfortable house.  Rev. A. H. Gillett, D.D., is Superintendent of Instruction.  W. C. Chipley, Esq., vice-presdient of the Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad, has charge of the business department.  Mr. C. C. Banfill is secretary.  The first session opened February, 1885, and closed March 10, 1885.  The outlay for programme reached nearly ten thousand dollars.  The Florida Chautauqua holds its annual session in February and March, and offers, in addition to the delightful climate of Florida, the attractions of a first-class assembly to Northern tourists and Southern residents alike."  [Vincent 291-2]  TOP
• 2000, From the DeFuniak Springs Events Site: "Chautauqua Assembly 2000 will be held at DeFuniak Springs, Florida on February 25-27, 2000 to recreate the traditions and thrills of the Florida Chautauqua, which ran from 1885 to 1920. Founded as a companion 'winter assembly' of the New York Chautauqua, the Florida Chautauqua provided an opportunity for education through classes and workshops, craft activities, lectures by prominent speakers of the day, and a chance for solitude amidst life's busy days. Chautauqua Assembly 2000 is a return to these traditions and the soul of the original Florida Chautauqua."  TOP
• A Revived Tradition in Florida's Panhandle Makes the Chautauqua Assembly a Stimulating (and Economical) February Learning Vacation, article form Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel Newsletter, February 14, 1999. 

Additional history of the area around Lake DeFuniak where the DeFuniak Springs Chautauqua Assembly was located can be found at this web page about Circle Drive. TOP

The following stories were sent to The Complete Chautauquan by F. Diane Pickett, director of the Florida Chautauqua. 

Gertrude Goes to Chautauqua

1/24/02  DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FL -- Everyone is going to Chautauqua –even 13 year old girls!!  Adair Wiess will be on stage at 3:00 p.m. in DeFuniak’s Amphitheater on the Chautauqua Assembly’s opening day, February 22.  Wiess will portray the adventures of a young girl Gertrude, who grew to the 1917 Chautauqua Assembly.  Gertrude has a lively, though uneventful morning.  Yet, the afternoon takes an entirely different turn when Gertrude’s pantaloons catch on fire at Murray’s carousel!!  Come to amphitheater to hear the rest of the story.  Attendance at this event and all other amphitheater events is free. 

Teddy Roosevelt, portrayed by David Bludworth, will take the amphitheater stage at 2:00 p.m. and Jim Moore’s interpretation of Florida’s Governor Sidney Catts (1916) will occur at 4:00 p.m.  Historical characters will continue to dominate opening day as Jan Turnquist brings Margaret Mitchell to life Friday evening at 7:45 p.m. at the Chautauqua Ritz Theatre.  Jan will give a compelling portrayal of the famous author of "Gone with the Wind".  Jan’s innovative blend of stage drama and living history produces an original, carefully researched evening of theater for all ages.  Tickets for the event are $10.00 and may be purchased in advance at DeFuniak Walton County Chamber of Commerce, The Big Store, Hotel DeFuniak, the South Walton Tourist Development Council or at the door (based on availability).  Tickets may also be ordered by mail.  Because of Jan’s highly popular performances, advance purchase is suggested.  Students of Margaret Mitchell’s life will want to visit with Judy DeBolt on Sunday afternoon as she discusses "Gone with the Wind – From the Page to the Screen". Judy will provide an in-depth look at the monumental task of transferring the novel to the screen as she takes you on a search for Scarlett O’Hara, leads you through the second burning of Atlanta and shares many Hollywood secrets related to this enduring film. 

Jan Turnquist will continue her stay at DeFuniak throughout the weekend, but will take on another personality Saturday afternoon when she becomes Louisa May Alcott.  Jan Turnquist is the Executive Director of Orchard House, home of Louisa May Alcott in Concord, Massachusetts, where Little Women was written in 1868.  Before becoming their Executive Director, she was known as their resident Louisa May Alcott, having portrayed Miss Alcott in Public Service Announcements currently running nationally on the Fox TV Network, several BBC Productions and on PBS.  Ms. Turnquist will lecture, in character and costume as she discusses the literary revolution taking place in New England during the time of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorn and Louisa May Alcott, all living in Concord, Massachusetts during this important era. 

Many of the amphitheatre characters will be re-created on Saturday and joined by former Florida Senator "Wig" Barrow as he spins homespun stories from his recent book "The Yellow River Code". 

Theater buffs may be interested in learning to create their own plays under the instruction of James Hinkley or lend an ear to Dot Boggess as she schools you in story telling "The Treasures of American Folklore". 

Saturday features a host of lectures and workshops as well as bagpipers, highland dancers and clan tents.  All these activities will culminate in a traditional Scottish evening at the Chautauqua Ritz Theater.  Be sure to stop by the Chautauqua Winery both days (from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. only) for a special wine tasting.  In addition to the locally grown wine, there will be approximately 25-30 other wines from all over the United Statutes available for tasting.  This special event is offered at $6.00 pp and includes a souvenir glass. 

Workshops and lectures continue on Sunday with a special interfaith panel scheduled for 3:00 p.m. to discuss Judaism, Christianity and the Islamic faiths.  The weekend concludes with a rousing "Salute to America" by the Emerald Coast Barbershop Chorus at 5:00 p.m. in the First United Methodist Church followed by Vespers and closing ceremonies at the Amphitheatre. 

Come to Chautauqua  - experience Disney for the mind – for further information call 850-267-1216 or 800-822-6877 or check the web site at www.chautauqua-assembly.com to view the entire program.  TOP
 

Chautauqua Presents the Gold Age of Muslim Spain

1/24/02  DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FL – Until September 11, few Americans were students of Islam nor Middle Eastern politics and culture.  However, the tragedy of that day has brought a new awareness that the world is, indeed, a global village. 

The Chautauqua Assembly, scheduled for February 22-24 in historic DeFuniak Springs, will prove a wide range of political and cultural discussions -–any of them focusing on the Middle East.  Lectures on international politics and global economics will examine how the opening up of the world has affected the prices and value of goods and services and the relationship of world trade to democracy. 

Participants in Chautauqua will also learn about the Golden Age of Muslim Spain.  Mrs. Okolo Rashid, Director of the International Museum of Muslim Culture, Jackson, MS, will discuss Islamic Moorah Spain, centering on its history from the 9th to the 14th century.  Rashid represents the only Muslim museum in the United States. 

The Renaissance, which began in Italy in the 14th century, is credited with bringing Europe out of the Middle Ages.  It is considered the foundation of modern Western civilization.  In fact, the Renaissance had its origins in Spain centuries before it reached the rest of Europe.  Much of the intellect and artistry that first gave rise to later splendor came to Spain with the arrival of Muslims from Africa and the Middle East in 711.   Although the medieval Islamic world was similar in size to the Roman Empire, it took hold much more rapidly and remained intact much longer.  Attend Rashid’s lectures to learn how and why. 

In keeping with its diversity, Chautauqua offers something for everyone.  Whether it is art shows, teas, crafts, fashion, interfaith panels, sports, history, literature or a host of other topics there is sure to be something to please.  Come to the Chautauqua Winery and let your palate explore 25-30 wines from all around the United States.  Early arrivals will receive a souvenir etched Chautauqua Assembly 2002 wine class a part of the $6.00 tasting. 

Sunday offers an architectural tour of homes at which four private homes on the famed "Circle" will be visited.  The lecture series will continue and will include an interfaith panel discussion on Christianity, Judaism and the Islamic faiths. 

The event will conclude Sunday afternoon with a rousing concert by the Emerald Coast Barbershop Choir as they sing a "Salute to America".  The concert will be held at the First United Methodist Church with vespers and closing ceremonies to follow at the amphitheater.  Vespers is a service of evening worship and will be conducted throughout the Chautauqua weekend. 

One lucky Chautauqua participant will have a portrait of choice – loved one, pet or pal – painted by award-winning artist, Dale Estka.  The artist paints from photographs so subject need not be present.  The oil painting is valued at $400. Participants must register to win. 

For further information call toll free 800-822-6877 or visit the web site at www.chautauqua-assembly.com   TOP
 

Circus Comes to Chautauqua

1/24/02  DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FL -- The circus is coming, the circus is coming!! 
Well, not quite all of it, but enough to whet your appetite.  Jim and Ricky Bovee will demonstrate their craft at the upcoming Chautauqua Assembly scheduled for February 22 – 24 in charming DeFuniak Springs. 

The Bovees are somewhat new residents of this charming and historic community.  Perched like a Victorian movie set with glittering homes surrounding a perfectly round lake, DeFuniak once again hosts its famous Chautauqua Assembly.  Now in its seventh year of revival, the Chautauqua Assembly offers a three-day weekend of entertainment and education of all ages. 

A variety of lectures and workshops will offer something for everyone, including the circus.  Learn from the Bovees, former circus performers, about the colorful characters and superb performers 
Who make the circus so memorable and exciting.  Jim Bovee was schooled as a n Olympic gymnast, but after an injury switched gears and trained in one of the most difficult of all circus acts – the Triple Horizontal Bars.   As a long-term circus performer, Jim has a wealth of first hand information and stories to share.  Hs wife, Ricky, joined with act after being trained by him and performed as his partner.  This program will offer an insider’s look at the circus and its fascinating history and culminate in a performance of two different balancing acts. 

Since relocating to DeFuniak, the Bovees have devoted themselves to their new passion – designing and creating period costumes.  Many of their costumes will be in evidence throughout the weekend.  Chautauqua Founder, Diane Pickett, will be seen in their latest creation based on a costume from the film "My Fair Lady".  The talented Bovees are truly artists as they transfer images from the eye to the cloth, creating their own patterns based on costumes seen in photographs, films or magazines.  In addition to his many other talents, Jim Bovee is also a talented classical guitarist. 

But the Circus isn’t all you will find at Chautauqua.  Come hear about stopping terrorism, participate in a tour of homes, view heritage arts and artists at work, learn fashion secrets by an expert from Woman’s Day Magazine, and taste wine from all around the country.  The Chautauqua Winery is offering a special wine tasting for Chautauqua goers from 4:30 – 6:30 on Friday and Saturday.  In addition to the local wines, participants will be able to choose from approximately 25-30 wines from all over the United States.  The $6.00 charge includes a collectible Chautauqua Assembly glass – while supplies last. 

And---be sure to register when you get here as one lucky participant will receive a portrait, painted from a photograph they provide.  Award winning portrait artist, Dale Estka, will donate a 16x20 bust size painting to the lucky winner.  Estaka is one of the artists participating in the free art show, which will be on exhibit at the Chautauqua Building on Circle Drive throughout the weekend.  TOP
 

A Touch of Scotland at Chautauqua

1/24/02  DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FL – A traditional Scottish evening - Ceilidh, highlights Chautauqua Assembly 2002, Feb. 22-24.  The entertaining two-hour celebration of Scottish music, dance and storytelling features an experienced and accomplished cast of performers.  Vocalists, instrumentalist, pipers, dancers and entertainers bring a bit of Scotland to this small Northwest Florida town and highlight this year’s event. 

Colorful tartans are destined to grab attention.  Several Scottish clan tents will be erected around the town’s Lake DeFuniak.  Representatives of the Scottish Heritage Society and the highland Class will be on hand to welcome guests.  Visitors will sample Scottish delicacies, listen to performance of musicians and make new friends. 

Dewey Ray, a descendent of a Highland clan and active member of Clan MacRae Society USA, will present two Scottish Heritage lectures during Chautauqua.  The multi-media presentation will trace events leading to the migration of Scots from the Highlands and Ulster to the New World and on to northwest Florida.  Joint Ray for colorful interpretations of the rich culture and character of the Scots and how historical forces influence their customs, behavior and life-style as pioneers. 

More music to be enjoyed at this three-day event includes the Emerald Coast Barbershop Chorus and the 25-voice A Capella Ensemble of Wood College in Mathiston, MS.  Lucy Phillips, Associate Professor of Music at the college directs the ensemble and will lead a lecture-demonstration to illustrate the history of shape-note singing in the south as it developed from the Singing School movement in America. This movement, from which the "Fasola" southern tradition developed, is rooted in early Greek and Roman music theory.  Nancy Donaldson, a local vocalist, will perform "Songs from Chautauqua 1885-1920" on both Feb. 22 and 23. 

Dr. R. Bedford Watkins, Professor Emeritus at Illinois Wesleyan University, will share excerpts of the works of Charles Ives –regarded as one of America’s most innovative composers.  The Pulitzer prize-winning composer is noted for his arrangements of hymns and patriotic songs. 

Literature, heritage arts, writing architectural tours, wine tasting, art shows and demonstrations and theatrical performances fill an agenda with fun and entertaining activity. 

Political and cultural discussions focus on the Middle East.  Religious lectures review Old and New Testament literature.  Sports writing and the contribution of sports books bring lively audience interaction.  Demonstrations include:  Games of the past, weaving, spinning, pine needle basketry, soap making, tatting, French hand sewing, chair caning, bobbin lace, pedal machine sewing, hardanger, calligraphy and hand thrown pottery. 

Activities are sure to entertain.  Watch, listen, participate.  Invoke the senses; taste another land; touch your heart with music; and reach for a New World understanding.  Chautauqua Assembly 2002 – come and join in the fun. 

One lucky Chautauqua participant will have a portrait of choice – loved one, pet, or pal – painted by award-winning artist, Dale Estka.  The artist paints from photographs so subject need not be present.  The oil painting is valued at $400.  Participants must register to win. 

For ticket information, call toll free 800-822-6877 or visit the website at www.chautauqua-assembly.com.  TOP
 

An Assembly of Talent, Tips and Tenors

1/24/02  DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FL  --  Just minutes from Florida’s famous Emerald Coast beaches, DeFuniak Springs host the Chautauqua Assembly 2002, February 22-24.  Lectures, classes, workshops and special events promise to entertain, excite and educate eager participants.  Middle East experts, a Scottish Ceilidh (Kay-Lee), a Tour of Homes, wine tasting, music and art shows and demonstrations share a schedule with something for everyone! 

In the wake of September 11, 2001, Americans seems to be staying closer to home and enjoying more family activities.  Even before that recent day of infamy, there were changes signaling a greater specter of the past emerging in American lives.  How and why have family values changed in today’s climate?  "The Future: You Can Go Home, You Just Can’t Go Backwards," presented by Dr. Sanford Silverburg of Salisbury, NC, opens this year’s event.  Travel, worldwide political structures, a diversity of values and the decentralization of the economic institution transform lives.  Learn the role each has played as Dr. Silverburg brings his international experience to the Chautauqua. 

The 25-voice A Capella Ensemble of Wood College in Mathiston, MS, also performs on opening day during a vespers service.  Then, opening night, "Conversations with the Past" takes center stage.  Jan Turnquist of Concord, MA, portrays "Margaret Mitchell: The Woman Behind Gone With The Wind."  Ms. Turnquist’s innovative blend of stage drama and living history produce an original and carefully researched performance. 

Turnquist, Executive Director of Orchard House (home of Louisa May Alcott), will also present the Surprising World of Louisa May Alcott and Her Literary Friends during the three-day event. 

Saturday, Feb. 23, begin with an art show and sale.  The day continues with a walking tour of homes, heritage arts demonstrations and workshops, a wine tasting at the Chautauqua Winery (as many as 30 wines available for tasting!) and vespers.  A Scottish Ceilidh (Kay-Lee) with rousing music and dance, and a Festival of Lights conclude the day. 

Activities on Sunday include a sunrise service, another art show and sale, an Architectural Institute tour of homes, lectures and panel discussions, a presentation by the Emerald Coast Barbershop Chorus and closing ceremonies. 

What’s packed in between? 

For history buffs:  Florida Goes to War Exhibit; Chautauqua, A Visual History; a History of the Circus…From Rome to Ringling; Romantic Couples from Florida’s Past; The Lingering Humor of the Old Southwest; Theodore Roosevelt (portrayed by David Bludworth); The Yellow River Code; Exploring Evil Happenings in History; and Titanic 2000 Expedition. 

Literature comes alive in Tidbits, Tales and Traditions –The Treasure of American Folklore; Sidney J. Catts (as interpreted by Jim Moore); and Proverbs, Riddles, Sayings and More; Treasures from Biblical Wisdom. 

Scottish events include the Ceilidh, clan tents and Scottish heritage lecture.  The two-hour Ceilidh will celebrate Scottish music, dance and storytelling.  This evening is a highlight not to be missed. 

A sampling of other workshops includes: Orchids for Amateurs; Genealogy; The American Signing School; Playwriting A Conversations with Yourself; What is Al-Islam?; Sports Writing; Get Off Your Duff and Get in Shape,; and Secret Recipes. 

Workshops pique the interest of participants on subjects as varied as gardening, Victorian letter writing (in the perfect Victorian home setting), photography, medicinal plants and even organic foods.  Learn how to take better photos with Carl and Ann Purcell—award winning travel photographers.  Demonstrations will show participants some tricks and tips of the trade.  Relationships can be happier and sexier—according to David and Deborah Weir who lead two workshops designed to help mature partners. 

From basket weaving to religion, and from Middle East politics to Southeastern gardening, Chautauqua Assembly 2002 brings a weekend of fun and festivities to this quaint Northwest Florida town. 

One lucky Chautauqua participant will have a portrait of choice –loved one, pet or pal—painted by award-winning artist, Dale Estka.  The artist paints from photographs so subject need not be present.  The oil painting is valued at $400.  Participants must register to win. 

For ticket information, call toll free 800-822-6877 or visit the website at www.chautauqua-assembly.com.  TOP
 

Peace Games, Politics and Other Characters at Chautauqua

1/24/02  DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, FL -- September 11th changed American lives.  Dr. Sanford Silverburg, specialist in the government and politics of the Middle East, officiates as keynote speaker for Florida’s Chautauqua Assembly 2002, February 22-24.  Americans realized quickly in the wake of September 11 that political structure around the world gives way to very complex webs of social and economic groups of peoples and organization.  Hear Dr. Silverburg’s views on global humanity and its expected affects on American lives in the 21st century at the Chautauqua opening ceremonies. 

Other speakers of note to address contemporary international political issues include Dr. David Felder and his wife Judy Felder.  The Felders will introduce peace games as the audience tries to solve or understand Middle East conflicts.  Participants play mediators, as well as those involved in conflicts throughout the Arab nations.  Dr. Felder is a FAMU professor in philosophy and is author of "How to Work for Peace."  He is a world federalist peace activist and has spoken at conferences from Moscow to Jerusalem. 

The Chautauqua is not just international affairs or contemporary civilization.  The event features thespians, artisans, musicians and variety of other activities.  From a Scottish Ceilidh to wine tasting to basketry, workshops offer most everything. 

Opening night, Jan Turnquist appears as "Margaret Mitchell": The Woman Behind "Gone with the Wind.""  Turnquist serves as executive director of Orchard House, home of Louisa May Alcott, in Concord, Massachusetts.  She appears as Alcott in public service announcements on FOX TV, the BBC and PBS. 

Gone with the Wind has entertained America for decades.  The transformation from the novel to the silver screen remains as intriguing as the book itself.  Judy DeBolt shares her research, "Gone with the Wind: From the Page to the Screen," and tells of the search for Scarlet and the second burning of Atlanta.  DeBolt studied David O. Sleznick – director of the famous movie, and the audience will learn secrets behind the production. 

No stranger to the Chautauqua, Theodore Roosevelt thunders onto the amphitheater stage.  Played by another politician, David Bludworth, the costumed character reminisces with the audience much as the statesman once did.  Bludworth is a former Florida judge and Assistant State Attorney.  Turnquist, Bludworth and other thespians bring a flavor of the past to Chautauqua. 

Heritage arts demonstrations, an architectural institute tour of homes, and American Folklore tidbits, tales and traditions provide Chautauqua attendees with a fresh view of history’s personal treasures.  Listen to barbershop quartets, wander an art show and sale, and pick up new ideas in craft workshops.  Participate.  Learn.  Be entertained.  Be informed.  Share.  Experience the Chautauqua Assembly. 

One lucky Chautauqua participant will have a portrait of choice – love one, pet, or pal --- painted by award-winning artist, Dale Estka.  The artist paints from photographs so subject need not be present.  The oil painting is valued at $400.  Participants must register to win. 

For ticket information, call toll free 800-822-6877 or visit the website at www.chautauqua-assembly.com.  TOP
 

One of the best sources for tidbits of information on Chautauqua reading circle and assembly activities in local communities is The Chautauquan monthly magazine published from 1880 to 1914. Here are some news items from the local circles in Florida found in The Chautauquan. 
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Here are references to Florida that can be found on this Web site: 
 

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