Name/Title
Florence GardnerEntry/Object ID
2021-008-002Tags
Florence Gardner, Women's HistoryPhotograph Details
Subject Person or Organization
Florence GardnerCollection
Women's History, History Fort Lauderdale Photograph CollectionCataloged By
Emeri CejkaLexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Secondary Object Term
Print, PhotographicNomenclature Primary Object Term
PhotographNomenclature Sub-Class
Graphic DocumentsNomenclature Class
Documentary ObjectsNomenclature Category
Category 08: Communication ObjectsGeneral Notes
Note Type
Historical NoteNote
Florence Gardner 1902-1979
A practical business woman with a fighting spirit, Florence Gardner arrived in Fort Lauderdale in 1932
and began work as a saleswoman. A native of New York, Florence’s early career was in New York’s show
business. A model and silent film actress, Florence knew how to connect with an audience and showcase
the latest fashions. Talents that would serve her well when she opened her own dress shop in Fort
Lauderdale. Florence Gardner Dresses, on East Broward Blvd., featured the latest styles in a modern shop.
With previous experience managing a dress shop in both New York and Atlantic City, Florence’s shop was
the place to go for “street dresses and evening frocks”.
In 1942, ten years after her arrival in Fort Lauderdale, Florence’s life changed in a way people did not
expect her to recover from. A tumor was found in her left arm. Immediate surgery was required and
Florence lost her left arm and part of her shoulder blade. The medical staff did not expect her to live.
Florence persevered. She fought for her health and wellbeing, healing until she was able to go back to
work. Florence’s recovery astounded her doctors and she was able to return to work, living an additional,
and unexpected, thirty-seven yearsCreated By
eandrews@historyfortlauderdale.orgCreate Date
November 28, 2023Updated By
eandrews@historyfortlauderdale.orgUpdate Date
December 8, 2023