By Mike Simmons
It was almost like a holiday! People took off from work, kids got out of school, and the whole town was excited to see it open. What was it? It was the opening of the new overpass on Cervantes Street over the L&N Railroad!
The opening of the span was an indication that things were changing for Pensacola. It was huge in two ways; First, it was a sign that the city was emerging out of the Great Depression. Secondly – Pensacola was growing! The overpass was a symbol that the town had more of a big-city feel to it.
Before the official opening of the overpass on the morning of February 22, 1935, the Pensacola Police motorcycle unit took a few moments for a photo shoot.
Sgt. Victor Ciulla is standing. Seated on the 1930s-era Harley-Davidson Flathead motorcycles were Sgt. Ciulla’s team. Future Chief Crosby Hall is on the right. Motorcycle officers wore a regular 8-point police hat, a wool jacket, high leather boots, and a Sam Browne belt.
Pensacola Police Officer German Cooper on a new 1935 VLH Flathead motorcycle.
Good read and beautiful photos.
Great read! Is that the back side of the Synagogue?
Yes it is!