Before moving on from our old building and entering this new era, it’s important to pause and remember the past. Not just those whom we work with now, but those who helped to grow the firm along the way our 45-year journey. We also look back further, to recognize those who “worked the land” our building was built upon.
An additional surprise to the McBride unveiling, Simone DeLoach commissioned another original work of art to commemorate the history of “The Land and Leadership.” It was unveiled on Wednesday, October 6 at the firm’s 45th Anniversary Breakfast Celebration. Inspired by its roots in the orange groves, the celebration had a citrus-themed breakfast and decor. There were also photo albums on view dating back to the 70s.
“Reading” the work left to right, the mural begins with an image of the C.W. Whittle Family homestead (c. 1900) who were descendants of area pioneers who maintained their home, an orange grove, and a fruit stand where our building stands today. The images follow over several milestones in the history of the firm and culminate in the bottom right with our groundbreaking.
Grandson of C.W. Whittle, Claude McMullen, recently visited the firm to see the mural. He fondly remarked, “I think the mural completely represents what this property has been and what it will be in the future. And I'm sure that my grandfather [C.W. Whittle] would have been pleased that what he started has turned into what it has become. He would be pleased with it.”
Read more about the firm’s history at dhclaw.com/history
You can also read more about the history of the Whittle Family Homestead and the City of Seminole's 50th Anniversary.