The Prehistory and History of Siesta Key; America's Best Beach (On Demand)

What every Floridian should know about the prehistory and history of America's best beach, as discussed by Philip M. Farrell, the author of An Illustrated History of Siesta Key: The Story of America's Best Beach.

Philip Farrell first visited Florida’s Gulf coast barrier islands in 1956, including those of Sarasota County, and has returned regularly. During the past 13 years, he and his wife, Alice, have stayed on Siesta Key annually for pleasure and a variety of professional activities. While studying the history and geology of Siesta Key, he discovered that its past century of development is not only unique but also tells a story worth sharing.

Philip M. Farrell, MD, PhD is Emeritus Dean and Professor of Pediatrics and Population Health Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health. His medical research has led to three books and over 300 original scientific articles. Currently, his medical research concentrates on Cystic Fibrosis, a relatively common genetic disease that affects children. 

Presented as part of the Sarasota County Centennial and One Book programming.