Miami Beach Centennial Book Traces Resort's Illustrious History

MIAMI BEACH, FL--(Marketwired - Jun 22, 2015) - Following the success of their first book, "SOUTH BEACH: Stories of a Renaissance," introduced in 2013, authors Charles J. Kropke and Eleanor Goldstein have published a new book celebrating the Miami Beach Centennial entitled "MIAMI BEACH: 100 Years of Making Waves."

"Miami Beach has welcomed many waves of people throughout the decades," Kropke says. "Well before the city was officially incorporated in March 26, 1915, the earliest settlers came here in the mid-1800s, followed in the 1910s and 1920s with a flood of winter visitors from northern states. Then came an influx of retirees from the Northeast in the 1930s, followed by the U.S. military that trained on Miami Beach during World War II in the 1940s. Later, waves included Cuban refugees during the 1980s and the international influx of investors and visitors who turned South Beach into one of the world's most glamorous destinations."

The book chronicles the booms, busts and civic leaders who created one of the world's foremost travel destinations. "From local residents to global travelers, everyone wants to learn about this unique resort known for sandy beaches, famous celebrities, trendy outdoor cafes and shops and historic Art Deco and MiMo (Miami Modern) architecture," he adds.

"The book is a treasure trove of original stories, beautiful photos and works of art that bring Miami Beach to life," says Goldstein. "We have featured the people who transformed this empty, mosquito-infested island of the early 1900s into the most recognized international resort in the world. Our book is a beautiful addition to the existing literature of Florida history."

The authors have also collaborated on a one-hour PBS styled documentary of the same name that traces the illustrious history of this storied destination. Produced by California-based Symon Productions, and narrated by Kropke, the film features historic photos and videos, as well as colorful present-day South Beach scenes and locations.

The book is priced at $24.99 and the documentary in DVD-HD, $19.95, plus shipping. Both are available for purchase by visiting www.tropicmoonmedia.com.