Don Pinder was quite a guy. During his storied career as a photographer for the Key West Citizen, Pinder (1925 – 2003), captured a wealth of compelling images
that captured Keys West’s history on an intimate scale.
Now on display through November 5 at Key West’s Custom House Museum, “Don Pinder: Eyes on the Island” is a riveting exhibit showcasing fifty black-and-white and color photographs taken during Pinder’s 35 year career. Many of these works, which document Key West history and culture, have never before been published.
Key West provided Pinder with a treasure trove of fascinating subjects – from destitute vagabonds to notable celebrities like US Presidents Harry S Truman and John F Kennedy, playwright and author, Tennessee Williams and British Prime Minister Harold MacMillan.
Born and raised in Key West during the Great Depression, Pinder joined the US Navy after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Discharged for a dislocated shoulder, he immediately re-upped with the Marine Corps where he trained as an aerial photographer.
After the war, Pinder became a staff photographer for The Miami Herald before returning to Key West in 1953 to work at the Key West Citizen.
“Don Pinder: Eyes on the Island” showcases photographs that are essential records of an island that has had an enormous influence on South Florida culture.
You can view his amazing photographic chronicle daily from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm at the Custom House Museum, 281 Front St. Info: 305-295-6616; kwahs.org.
