George Eugene Sebring (1859–1927) was the founder of Sebring, Florida. Together with his son and partner H. Orvel Sebring, they watched the young town grow into a model planned community and winter oasis for northern residents. The elder Sebring never held local office and was seldom heard to speak in public; his vision and works instead became his enviable legacy. (Courtesy Sebring Historical Society.)

ON THE COVER: Participants in the July 4, 1926, Sebring Fire Department “Miss Flame” beauty pageant are shown on the department’s newest truck, purchased that year. Among the participants were Lois Starbuck and Virginia Woods, third and fourth from left. The truck appears to be in the municipal pier parking lot, approximately where today’s public library is located, with the Masonic Temple (1921) visible in the distance. (Courtesy Sebring Historical Society.)