1985 Ron Weaver Pictorial Map of Marathon Key, Florida

A delightful 1985 pictorial view and map of Marathon Key, Florida, drawn by the illustrator Ron Weaver. In addition to highlighting local businesses, the map depicts scenes from Key life, flora, fauna, and folklore.

A Closer Look

The map looks east by northeast on Marathon Key from a hypothetical position high above the Seven Mile Bridge. Route 1 runs through the center of the island, with businesses appearing on either side. The Marathon airport is evident at center. Most businesses are represented in detail, with phone numbers, so we can only assume these businesses paid to be so presented. Weaver has a little fun with a dialogue between two surveyors towards top-left, with one arguing that the map is not to scale because of artistic license, and because 'This is a poster, not a map!! And posters should be fun!!'

Today, the city of Marathon is spread over several keys about halfway down the Overseas Highway (U.S.-1). According to local legend (referred to near top), the name was coined by workers building the Overseas Railroad (predecessor to the highway) in the early 20th century, reflecting the difficulties of their task.

Publication History and Census

This map was printed by Key Exposure in 1985 with original graphic design and illustration by Ron Weaver. We have not been able to trace any information on either Weaver or Key Exposure, but the latter produced a similar map of Key West. Both companies have Key West phone number, so mostly likely Weaver is/was a local artist. We have identified no other examples of this map.