The Wandering Disciple

Mail moves the country, zip code moves the mail. In 1962 the US Postal Service revealed Mr Zip, a colorful cartoon character to help spread the word about zip codes. Used to help educated the public about zip codes to help ease routing of mail and simplify the mailing process, Mr Zip reminded customers to not tie up the mail service and use zip code. This public service announcement swept the nation and resulted in clever newspaper and magazine ads and even color mail bags like this one on display the the Lake Wales History Museum. Within four years of the start of the Mr Zip promos, 80% of Americans knew Mr Zip and what he stands for. The Mr Zip promo was eventually retired in the early 80's. (Photo: May 11, 2019)

Lake Wales, Florida: A city built by the railroad, the City of Lake Wales sits along the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad in the heart of Central Florida. Once the rails put the city on the map, trade and tourism followed. The history of this quaint little town along the rails is on display at the Lake Wales History Center. Located in the historic train depot, the Lake Wales History Center tells the story of Lake Wales. From its early days as a stop on the railroad through modern day, there are exhibits to help tell the story of this Central Florida town. The museum features exhibits on the railroad history, Lake Wales connection to the war effort, the trade industry featuring citrus and cattle farming and an exhibit on tourism in Lake Wales. The museum also features a revolving gallery which during our visit the gallery focused on Native American cultures. Outside the museum on a section of abandoned train tracks there are a few rail cars in the process of restoration. The...